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October 3, 2025

Bowhunter Safety Education

Oregon's Bowhunter Safety Education Program teaches bowhunters the fundamentals of safe, responsible archery hunting with an appreciation and respect for the environment in which they hunt.

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A Bowhunter Safety Education certification is not required to hunt during archery-only seasons in Oregon. However, it is required in several surrounding states. Certification is accepted in all other states and Canadian Provinces.

While Bowhunter Safety Education is voluntary in Oregon, it is a great course that every hunter can benefit from. In fact, bowhunters who have completed the program are more successful at harvesting deer and elk than those who have not.

What You'll Learn

  • Introduction to bowhunting
  • Wildlife conservation
  • Safe and responsible bowhunting
  • Know your bow and arrow
  • Preparing for the hunt
  • Hunting from elevated stands and other bowhunting techniques
  • Shot placement and recovery techniques
  • Outdoor preparedness

The course is hands-on, and students will be required to shoot their own bows and arrows during class. Learn more about our Hunter and Bowhunter Safety Education Courses.

Note: You will need an active VEM account to complete your Conventional course or Field Day registration. See Volunteer and Event Management System (VEM) for more information.

Education programs are funded by the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act (Pittman-Robertson) and the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act (Wallop-Breaux).