Post by: Weatherbyfan on January 05, 2011, 12:22:29 PM
Post by: BlackRidge on January 05, 2011, 12:29:19 PM
Post by: Weatherbyfan on January 05, 2011, 12:31:23 PM
Post by: STIKNSTRINGBOW on January 05, 2011, 12:40:36 PM
I understand there are a few bad apples in every batch, but I thought the whole purpose in AHE was to reduce negative hunter image to the general public, not empower slob hunters to claim "master Hunter" status, and give them increased opportunity to embarrass the rest of us.
I applied during the second year of program and got a lot of paraphernalia about dealing with the "non-hunting public" and "anti's", almost nothing near as educational as NBEF, or even the standard "Hunter Ed"
although it was my lack of participation that caused me not to finish the process, did not complete the "volunteer" portion. My priorities are different now, might try it again.......
Origionally there were 3 categories, "Conservationist", "Marksman", and "Master Hunter" did they do away with them ?
Post by: Weatherbyfan on January 05, 2011, 12:44:20 PM
Post by: MtnMuley on January 05, 2011, 01:04:37 PM
Post by: high country on January 05, 2011, 01:16:36 PM
there are things that go on that would seem fishy to the not knowing, like keys to locked blm gates to drive around and shoot coyotes to protect sharpies and sage grouse. the kittitas hunt gets a lot of press because not everyone fully understands the goal and $ involved....my self sometimes included.
if you are looking for a good excuse to get out and hunt more and meet many landowners, it is a good program. there are long seasons that look great, but there is a lot of drama that can go along with that....that is where the afore mentioned dealing with the anti's comes to play.
Post by: CP on January 05, 2011, 01:21:12 PM
8)
Post by: Skyvalhunter on January 05, 2011, 01:43:15 PM
Post by: jstone on January 05, 2011, 02:10:12 PM
Post by: kirkl on January 05, 2011, 02:19:30 PM
I don't know i am up in the air about it. Master hunter doesn't mean much, I thought about it but said screw it. They shoot the cows out of the clockum that the archery hunters used to be able to shoot?? The elk herd is suffering but they get to harvest the cows?? There are bad seeds in all but i don't think that you need to take a test to be a master hunter to Harvest animals late in the season. Make it someway people get the opportunity to do it. Permit each year i don't know. Just thinking..
Post by: jstone on January 05, 2011, 02:32:25 PM
Post by: Buckrub on January 05, 2011, 02:43:45 PM
I think more education for all hunters is a good idea and drop the MH program.
Post by: whiteeyes on January 05, 2011, 03:18:37 PM
Post by: rasbo on January 05, 2011, 03:36:51 PM
Post by: CP on January 05, 2011, 03:38:25 PM
Unfortunately the program is turning the MH into another user group. You got your archery, muzzle loader, modern rifle and MH. That adds permit revenue and gives free labor to the WDFW.
Post by: wackmaster on January 05, 2011, 04:02:19 PM
Post by: Dan-o on January 05, 2011, 04:25:50 PM
It's not really in me to go knock on doors and ask for permission to hunt private land (and it REALLY isn't in me to trespass) so I don't do too much with the Kittitas hunt. But, I do have one friend who's fence sometimes gets knocked down by elk tearing into his hay stack over there, and I'm not ashamed to take a cow from there to help save his hay stack. He needs to make a living too.
The problem is, you can't target those elk in October... because they could be anywhere. It think the goal was to only target problem animals, and the folks that run it do about as good a job as they can. So, in some cases, I don't know how you can target them except in the winter. I know that's not everyone's cup of tea, but I think there's a legitimate use for the program that way.
It's my opinion (worth just what you paid for it) that the program helps "train" some elk to not get in trouble and without the progrm the state would be forced to pay higher damage or (more likely) cut the herd size. I don't know many hunters who want the herd size cut.
As previously mentioned, there was a major revamp a couple years ago. They made it very easy to kick someone out of the program (good for them).
P.S. Besides, when I passed the test I got this cool shoulder patch ;)
Post by: Lowedog on January 05, 2011, 04:30:38 PM
Unfortunately the program is turning the MH into another user group. You got your archery, muzzle loader, modern rifle and MH. That adds permit revenue and gives free labor to the WDFW.
That is my problem with it. We "regular" hunters have lost opportunities to the MH's. We used to have some killer elk hunts in the Peshastin and Malaga units that anyone with an east side elk tag could apply for. We have lost both of those units to the MH program and I think that is a farce.
I don't know much about the Kittitas MH elk hunt but from things I have heard and been told that go on there with what are supposed to be the cream of the crop it really makes me have my doubts about the whole program and the reasoning behind some of those those who are in the program.
Post by: high country on January 05, 2011, 04:56:15 PM
Unfortunately the program is turning the MH into another user group. You got your archery, muzzle loader, modern rifle and MH. That adds permit revenue and gives free labor to the WDFW.
That is my problem with it. We "regular" hunters have lost opportunities to the MH's. We used to have some killer elk hunts in the Peshastin and Malaga units that anyone with an east side elk tag could apply for. We have lost both of those units to the MH program and I think that is a farce.
I don't know much about the Kittitas MH elk hunt but from things I have heard and been told that go on there with what are supposed to be the cream of the crop it really makes me have my doubts about the whole program and the reasoning behind some of those those who are in the program.
the only thing that stops any hunter from being part of the program is having been convicted of wildlife crimes and or lack of ambition. lack ambition also is had by many who apply for a tag and don't want to hunt because of any number of reasons. the MH program shows that the people want to apply them selves.
it seems many are unaware of the MH influence beyond kittias. there are many problem areas that arise and they call from people that want to participate to help. some times is peaches, some times just plain work. I am current ly rebuilding gates for some fed land that was destroyed....but I am just another lazy slob hunter who should stop my labor for free when I hit my hour mark, but I wont.
Post by: Lowedog on January 05, 2011, 05:15:38 PM
High Country, would you be in the program if you weren't given the opportunity to shoot extra deer and elk?
I have no desire to be in this program and I shouldn't have to be in order to have an opportunity to hunt elk on public land.
Post by: luvtohnt on January 05, 2011, 06:21:27 PM
It's great that some want to donate their time to WDFW but I don't believe that you should be awarded with special privileges that take away from other user groups because you do that.
High Country, would you be in the program if you weren't given the opportunity to shoot extra deer and elk?
I have no desire to be in this program and I shouldn't have to be in order to have an opportunity to hunt elk on public land.
Have you or anyone you know volunteered for the WDFW just because? In today's world it requires a little incentive for the average person to give up their valuable time. There are some that do it for the simple fact that they are giving back. As far as I see it it is a good program that works to reduce damage to crops and get some quality work for free. That last statement is one we should all smile about as it cost us nothing!!
Brandon
Post by: Weatherbyfan on January 05, 2011, 06:29:23 PM
Post by: kirkl on January 05, 2011, 06:32:54 PM
Post by: luvtohnt on January 05, 2011, 06:42:41 PM
it just seems that theres not alot of other hunters saying good things about the master hunters or the program .
Pure jealousy. My friends always bitch and complain about the program and the ADVANTAGES they get. But I tell them to sign up and do some volunteering its easy, and they always have an excuse!!
Brandon
Post by: whiteeyes on January 05, 2011, 07:01:03 PM
Post by: tbrady on January 05, 2011, 07:07:15 PM
I've not received any benefit from being in the program other than what I learned in preparation for the exam. When I signed up for it I wanted to learn as much as I could about hunting in WA since I had just moved here from the southeast.
I think it's perfectly legit for MHs to get extra hunting opportunities. Heck, how is that different from being a Senior, a youth, a special permit holder a raffle winner except that you have to put in a little extra work for it?
Again, if'n it was up to me, everyone would have to pass it to be able to hunt.
Post by: Ray on January 05, 2011, 07:31:07 PM
A few days ago I heard a fellow talking about how he is going to enter the master hunter program. The guy doesn't even know the hunting regulations as I have explained at least a dozen of them to him in the past year. He has never harvested a game animal and his hunting exposure and experience is nearly nil. He is only seeking the master hunter badge so that he can get access to harvest animals on the special hunts as he stated.
Other master hunters have expressed to me that they are basically a user group in so many words, and that "user groups" who have committed organizations like muzzleloaders and archery, have little to no credibility when it comes to recommendations to the WDFW. It was insisted to me one time that the master hunters are really the ones who the WDFW and Game Comission is listening to.
It seems to me that there is no way to get rid of all the problems regarding master hunter groups other than just getting rid of the privileges and perks associated with the "not a user group" that is a "user group". I make bows with kids every year and I share time with people to expose them to hunting, and I don't believe one could say that some person who wants to clock their hours is doing a service to the hunting society any more than I am. Some guys are out at the local range teaching classes to kids just because they like giving back to society what they believe in without any thought or expectation of payment or perk. So I guess the master hunters clock for the WDFW and that's an official paycheck. I believe there is some sense of selfishness for some master hunters. You can call my remarks jealous, I don't care. As far as their opportunities - a lot of those hunts I don't want anything to do with though there are some opportunities which would probably be better served back into the public pool of opportunity. :twocents:
To say that everyone should go through master hunters is a stretch. I say everyone should go in the Army Infantry 4 years minimum as an enlisted man. The fact is, a lot of people have the know how, sense and exposure to make sound decisions and are respecting their opportunities, game and pay back to the hunting community without such programs.
A final note: There are a lot of damn good guys who do the master hunter program too. I've got to tip my hat for those guys who run hunter education as one example.
Post by: Dan-o on January 05, 2011, 07:35:40 PM
I think you are at least partially right about it being jealousy. If I were born with tribal hunting rights, I'm sure I'd want to use them (but I'd like to think that I wouldn't pop elk off the side of the road and leave gut piles for families to drive by).
For that matter, I'm pretty jealous of Bill Gate's kids because they could buy great access to hunting.
I don't begrudge someone their inheritance, and I don't blame indians for hunting when/where legal, but I am jealous and I would like to see it legally abolished..... I know..... Never happen.
Post by: rotty33 on January 05, 2011, 07:53:51 PM
Post by: fishunt247 on January 05, 2011, 08:33:18 PM
Weatherby, do those pukes that live out by you still have their Master Hunter rights? If so, the program is officially a joke.
Post by: Lowedog on January 05, 2011, 08:52:03 PM
It's great that some want to donate their time to WDFW but I don't believe that you should be awarded with special privileges that take away from other user groups because you do that.
High Country, would you be in the program if you weren't given the opportunity to shoot extra deer and elk?
I have no desire to be in this program and I shouldn't have to be in order to have an opportunity to hunt elk on public land.
Have you or anyone you know volunteered for the WDFW just because? In today's world it requires a little incentive for the average person to give up their valuable time. There are some that do it for the simple fact that they are giving back. As far as I see it it is a good program that works to reduce damage to crops and get some quality work for free. That last statement is one we should all smile about as it cost us nothing!!
Brandon
I haven't but I know people who do every year. Groups like RMEF and MDF do projects for WDFW and their members volunteer for those projects without expecting an extra elk or deer tag.
Post by: high country on January 05, 2011, 10:14:45 PM
I initially started the program to hunt with friends who were in th program and had private land on mica peak. I never even hunted a single day with them after a scouting trip that was not my style. at that point I was in and made the best of it. I now help local hunters as much as I can to have a good time. there are several right here on this board that I have had a hand in helping and have turned down every offer for gratuity. I love to hunt, anything that keeps me out there in animals, I am into.
I know about 15-20 MH's personally and I have yet to see one that looks down on anyone, most of the guys I know are just like me, looking to help everyone else have a good hunting expierience. My life is now moving away from seeing how many animals I can amass upon my wall and twards getting younger and new hunters into the game. the MH program does a bunch of interaction with landowners and I feel the ones I have delt with have been very good to me. I have a hard time understanding how someone can look down on a group that took the time and energy to go above and beyond because the opportunity was there.
Post by: high country on January 05, 2011, 10:17:53 PM
Unfortunately the program is turning the MH into another user group. You got your archery, muzzle loader, modern rifle and MH. That adds permit revenue and gives free labor to the WDFW.
That is my problem with it. We "regular" hunters have lost opportunities to the MH's. We used to have some killer elk hunts in the Peshastin and Malaga units that anyone with an east side elk tag could apply for. We have lost both of those units to the MH program and I think that is a farce.
I don't know much about the Kittitas MH elk hunt but from things I have heard and been told that go on there with what are supposed to be the cream of the crop it really makes me have my doubts about the whole program and the reasoning behind some of those those who are in the program.
I have had that malaga tag two times and never been called to hunt.......you might be confusing the fact that there is a permit with killing elk. we have to be called to hunt that hunt.
Post by: high country on January 05, 2011, 10:20:47 PM
It's great that some want to donate their time to WDFW but I don't believe that you should be awarded with special privileges that take away from other user groups because you do that.
High Country, would you be in the program if you weren't given the opportunity to shoot extra deer and elk?
I have no desire to be in this program and I shouldn't have to be in order to have an opportunity to hunt elk on public land.
you still have the opportunity to hunt on public land. the only reason you would HAVE to be an MH is to hunt the 3911, 3912 tag or the late eastside. there is a last chance doe that is designed to remove whitetails from historic mule deer areas too.
Post by: Lowedog on January 05, 2011, 11:24:47 PM
It's great that some want to donate their time to WDFW but I don't believe that you should be awarded with special privileges that take away from other user groups because you do that.
High Country, would you be in the program if you weren't given the opportunity to shoot extra deer and elk?
I have no desire to be in this program and I shouldn't have to be in order to have an opportunity to hunt elk on public land.
you still have the opportunity to hunt on public land. the only reason you would HAVE to be an MH is to hunt the 3911, 3912 tag or the late eastside. there is a last chance doe that is designed to remove whitetails from historic mule deer areas too.
The two units I mentioned above were for the most part public land hunts that I no longer have the opportunity to draw tags for that I did before the MH program took it over.
Post by: high country on January 05, 2011, 11:28:10 PM
Post by: STIKNSTRINGBOW on January 05, 2011, 11:32:39 PM
the hunts were taken away but not to give it to MH's. as I said, the tag has been mine 2x and there has not been a need to hunt it. the dept calls us if we can hunt....no call.....no hunt. how would you feel about burning your points on a draw for a tag you may not be allowed to hunt?I did not know they took your points now, they changed that.
That would suck !, I guess it is not all a "bed of roses"
Post by: Lowedog on January 05, 2011, 11:36:25 PM
the hunts were taken away but not to give it to MH's. as I said, the tag has been mine 2x and there has not been a need to hunt it. the dept calls us if we can hunt....no call.....no hunt. how would you feel about burning your points on a draw for a tag you may not be allowed to hunt?
Only MH's can draw the tag though so how was it not given to them? I have a good idea why you weren't called. Many landowners weren't happy about the hunts being taken over by the MH program so they either deal with the problem themselves or they insist on using local people in the program.
The dept used to call unsuccessful permit applicants late in the season to deal with problem elk.
Post by: high country on January 05, 2011, 11:42:58 PM
Post by: Lowedog on January 06, 2011, 12:04:25 AM
Post by: DBake on January 06, 2011, 12:04:48 AM
I've been in it for 6 years and in my opinion everyone should have to go through the program to be able to hunt (yeah, go ahead and flame away). Hunting is a privilege and the more we can do to improve the public's perception of us, the better.
I've not received any benefit from being in the program other than what I learned in preparation for the exam. When I signed up for it I wanted to learn as much as I could about hunting in WA since I had just moved here from the southeast.
I think it's perfectly legit for MHs to get extra hunting opportunities. Heck, how is that different from being a Senior, a youth, a special permit holder a raffle winner except that you have to put in a little extra work for it?
Again, if'n it was up to me, everyone would have to pass it to be able to hunt.
If hunting is a privilege then the WDFW should toughen up of fines agonist people who break the law and not charge the average hunter more to hunt.
Post by: Little Dave on January 06, 2011, 01:59:57 AM
Some guys have real big egos... but those are the same type that would have boasted about being a Costco member twenty years ago. Brandished a new Driver's License in the freshman hall, etc. Always going to have people like that.
Post by: Skyvalhunter on January 06, 2011, 05:45:53 AM
Post by: MADMAX on January 06, 2011, 05:51:23 AM
Post by: Lowedog on January 06, 2011, 07:02:12 AM
Lowedog your right the MH program has alot of great guys in it that do alot of volunteer time and don't even participate in the MH hunts. You don't see many MH's going around bragging and sticking their chest out. It was a program developed by WDFW so if you choose not participate fine but don't chastise others for choosing to participate and hopefully become a more ethical, responsible hunter.
I am not chastising anyone. Re-read my posts. I only have a problem with taking opportunity away from all of us and turning it into a MH program.
Post by: CP on January 06, 2011, 07:34:37 AM
Take the Skagit River elk hunt for example. After the embarrassing public exposure of the general ML & archery seasons there it was sure to be closed. Now it is still open to MH permit holders. True you need to have the MH label to hunt it, but the program is open to anyone that can jump through all the hoops.
Post by: high country on January 06, 2011, 07:36:27 AM
there have been a few hunts where MH's have been asked to go stealth and haze or kill animals is some pretty urban areas. all short short range stuff......kinda sketchy IMO, but they needed them out so we shoved em'. there is a lot of fun to be had in the program, some great hunters.....at least on my side of the state and it opens more doors of opportunity if you are willing to do what is required to accept them. the program also has addopted a no tolerance view on every single micro law that the lay hunter might be able to slide on, say the 400" rule for ex., is gonna get the MH ousted and possibly fined.
there is a lot of talk of some bad seeds, all I know is there are 4 other MH's that I hunt with a time or two every year and shoot with quite a bit. those guys are mean as all get out on any wepon from a longbow to long range rifle. I would put their skills against anyone short of the pros.
Post by: Buckrub on January 06, 2011, 09:01:18 AM
I would gladly volunteer for many programs but by providing incentives hunters are there for the wrong reasons.... hence the divide.
All hunters should be promoted by and educated by the state to insure access while promoting ethical hunters.... not ethical...stiffin the fine.... Master Hunters who commit a game violation should never hunt again.
Post by: high country on January 06, 2011, 09:55:24 AM
Post by: Bob33 on January 06, 2011, 10:06:51 AM
January 06, 2011
Contact: Lt. Eric Anderson, (360) 902-2426
or Tracy Loveless, (360) 902-8410
Master Hunter program accepting
applications through February 15
OLYMPIA — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is currently accepting enrollment applications through Feb. 15 for its Master Hunter program.
WDFW enlists master hunters to participate in controlled hunts to remove problem animals that damage property or threaten public safety. To qualify for the program, applicants must demonstrate a high level of skill and be committed to lawful and ethical hunting practices, said Lt. Eric Anderson, manager of WDFW’s Hunter Education Division.
“This program was designed to create a pool of highly qualified hunters who can help the department manage wildlife in sensitive situations,” Anderson said. “This is a great opportunity for conscientious, committed hunters to assume a leadership role among their peers.”
Hunters enrolling in the program must to pay a non-refundable $50 application fee, pass a criminal background check, sign a Master Hunter Code of Ethics form and provide at least 20 hours of volunteer service on projects that benefit the state’s wildlife resources. They must also pass an extensive written exam based upon the program’s curriculum.
Anderson encourages hunters who enroll in the program to study the materials thoroughly to prepare for the test, because applicants are allowed only one chance to re-take the exam. Those who successfully complete the enrollment process will receive a certificate, master hunter patch and identification card, and will be eligible to participate in depredation hunts.
Post by: gotshot on January 09, 2011, 12:41:57 AM
Post by: Little Dave on January 09, 2011, 09:25:01 AM
Post by: lokidog on January 09, 2011, 09:58:37 AM
Pure jealousy, wow I think you are on to something there Brandon, thats the problem with another group that gets beat like a dead horse on here as well.
Maybe, but with hard work and dedication you still can't become a member of this other priveleged group.... :dunno: :stirthepot:
I was going to do the program when it started but they would not consider time spent as a hunter ed instructor towards the volunteer time, I guess they do now?, and I did not have time to do even more volunteer work for the state. I would be interested in doing it again, but I cannot think of any qualifying volunteer conservation work to do from my little island. :(
Post by: Bob33 on January 09, 2011, 10:53:45 AM
"Classroom instruction for Hunter Education training courses. Master Hunter volunteers need not be certified Hunter Education Instructors to receive credit, but must obtain the approval of the Chief Instructor of the teaching team."
Post by: dscubame on January 09, 2011, 02:11:45 PM
http://wdfw.wa.gov/news/release.php?id=jan0611a (http://wdfw.wa.gov/news/release.php?id=jan0611a)
January 06, 2011
Contact: Lt. Eric Anderson, (360) 902-2426
or Tracy Loveless, (360) 902-8410
Tracy Loveless? That name sounds familiar I think she starred in a few films back in the day.
Post by: huntnnw on January 09, 2011, 03:52:10 PM
Post by: Dan-o on January 09, 2011, 07:28:16 PM
From what I've seeen, it's a usdeful tool for WDFW, but it's not for everyone.
Dan
Post by: high country on January 10, 2011, 07:17:15 AM
Post by: Hilltop123 on January 10, 2011, 05:54:00 PM
Post by: Bob33 on January 10, 2011, 06:07:39 PM
Post by: tbrady on January 10, 2011, 09:01:34 PM
Post by: Coastal_native on January 10, 2011, 09:28:39 PM
The fed government sucks! The state government sucks! WDFW sucks! Indians suck! Road hunters suck! Bow hunters suck! Rifle Hunters suck! Master Hunters suck! Gated roads suck! Open gates suck! ATV's suck!.............
The only thing that makes everyone happy is pictures of dead animals :chuckle: Oh well, It all makes for good reading.
Post by: Bob33 on January 10, 2011, 09:53:15 PM
(I think you probably left a few "sucks" out...)
Post by: wt on January 10, 2011, 11:28:17 PM
I was thinking the same thing...It's a never ending list of complaints...Coastal Hunter, that was classic. Way to tie it together.
The fed government sucks! The state government sucks! WDFW sucks! Indians suck! Road hunters suck! Bow hunters suck! Rifle Hunters suck! Master Hunters suck! Gated roads suck! Open gates suck! ATV's suck!.............
The only thing that makes everyone happy is pictures of dead animals :chuckle: Oh well, It all makes for good reading.
Post by: Hilltop123 on January 11, 2011, 06:36:43 PM
Post by: Dslayer on January 11, 2011, 06:51:41 PM
Anyway, I just completed the MH program. I enjoyed the curriculum and the challenge of passing the test-opened my eyes in some ways and confirmed a great deal of what I knew and believed. If I get some extra hunting opportunities, fine, but if not, I'm okay with that.
Post by: Ray on January 11, 2011, 07:06:13 PM
Post by: Coastal_native on January 11, 2011, 07:32:01 PM
Being mocked, hope not? :o
Definitely not...that was a half ass attempt at humor. With all the different personalities, hunting methods, advantages/disadvantages...etc. there's always going to be a few differences of opinion...this is a good place for them to be heard. Funny though, when somebody makes a post about a successful hunt...everybody agrees that its a good thing :)............well....unless its not tagged in the photo...or if there's no blaze orange...or if there's a flashlight on the bow...or if some bazillionare bought a canned trophy....more humor....I'll stop now.
Post by: Bob33 on January 11, 2011, 08:38:13 PM
History: the program was created by WDFW in 1992 as the “Advanced Hunter Education” program. It was revised and renamed in 2007 to the “Master Hunter” program. In 2009 the phrase “permit” was added, because this allowed a Master Hunter to have his status immediately suspended by an enforcement officer taking the hunter’s permit, which he is required to carry. (The Master Hunter number is now imprinted on the hunting license of all Master Hunters, so enforcement officers can readily identify them.)
The Master Hunter program is addressed in WAC 232-12-073: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=232-12-073 (http://apps.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=232-12-073)
WAC 232-12-073
Master hunter permit program.
(1) In order to effectively manage wildlife in areas or at times when a higher proficiency and demonstrated skill level are needed for resource protection or public safety, the department establishes the master hunter permit program.
(2) The master hunter permit program emphasizes safe, ethical, responsible, and lawful hunting practices. Program goals include improving the public's perception of hunting and perpetuating the highest hunting standards. A master hunter permit is required to participate in controlled hunts to eliminate problem animals that damage property or threaten public safety.
The Fish and Wildlife Commission issued policy C6005 regarding the program: http://wdfw.wa.gov/commission/policies/c6005.html (http://wdfw.wa.gov/commission/policies/c6005.html)
(Pertinent sections follow):
Policy: The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife will develop a Master Hunter Program that provides an adequate number of hunters, with specific qualifications, to address the wildlife/human interaction outlined in the discussion above.
It must be understood and fundamental to the policy that Master Hunter certification is a privilege and not a right. Further, the Master Hunter resource is a tool that will be employed by the Department to resolve certain human/wildlife conflict situations. These hunting situations will require hunting in areas that may be highly visible to the public and may be on private property. In all cases, these hunting situations will require good judgment and professional conduct by Master Hunters. Violations of hunting rules or regulations will not be tolerated and will result in loss of Master Hunter privileges and possibly all hunting privileges, depending on the violation.
Master Hunters are role models for the rest of the hunting community and, through their actions, act as ambassadors for the Department. Qualifications for the Master Hunter program are:
Qualifications: application is open to Washington residents only. Applications are accepted annually between January 1 and February 15. All requirements must be completed by November 15 of the same year. To become a Master Hunter one must:
1. Pay a $50 non- refundable application fee.
2. Pass a 100 question written test; typical applicants study a minimum of 20 to 30 hours.
3. Demonstrate proficiency with one of seven hunting methods, via a witnessed shooting test.
4. Complete a minimum of 20 hours of wildlife conservation volunteer work.
5. Attend a C.O.R.T. class
6. Sign a Code of Ethics.
7. Pass a criminal background check. Entry is denied to anyone who has:
- Paid the required fine or been convicted within the last ten (10) years of a Chapter 77.15 RCW offense;
- Paid the required fine or been convicted within the last ten (10) years of criminal trespass, reckless endangerment, criminal conspiracy, or making a false statement to law enforcement, while hunting, fishing, or engaging in any activity regulated by the WDFW;
- Prior felonies prohibiting the possession of firearms, unless firearm possession is reinstated; or
- A current hunting or fishing license revocation or a current suspension of hunting or fishing license privileges in Washington or in another state.
7. Sign a Code of Ethics.
Recertification: Master Hunter permits are valid for five years. Master Hunters must pay a renewal fee, have completed a minimum of 40 hours of volunteer wildlife conservation work, and pass a criminal background check.
Statistics: as of December there were 1964 Master Hunters. In 2010 approximately 800 individuals applied to the program, and 152 completed all requirements.
The “Zero Tolerance” policy is such that anyone violating one of the conditions previously noted is either permanently removed from the program or suspended for two years in the case of a Chapter 77.15 RCW infraction. In 2010, one individual was removed for life, and one was suspended for two years.
Post by: high country on January 12, 2011, 07:23:18 AM
Being mocked, hope not? :o
Definitely not...that was a half ass attempt at humor. With all the different personalities, hunting methods, advantages/disadvantages...etc. there's always going to be a few differences of opinion...this is a good place for them to be heard. Funny though, when somebody makes a post about a successful hunt...everybody agrees that its a good thing :)............well....unless its not tagged in the photo...or if there's no blaze orange...or if there's a flashlight on the bow...or if some bazillionare bought a canned trophy....more humor....I'll stop now.
Post by: pods8 on January 14, 2011, 12:11:16 PM
I am not chastising anyone. Re-read my posts. I only have a problem with taking opportunity away from all of us and turning it into a MH program.
Not knowing the area well you are talking about it sounds like this is on private land? If so did the hunt going to an "as needed" MH permit basis take away opportunity from everyone (even though everyone can be a MH assuming no violations) or did it take away opportunity from those who are in good with the land owners where as everyone else would still be pretty much SOL?
Post by: boneaddict on January 14, 2011, 12:19:14 PM
Post by: Lowedog on January 14, 2011, 02:00:05 PM
I am not chastising anyone. Re-read my posts. I only have a problem with taking opportunity away from all of us and turning it into a MH program.
Not knowing the area well you are talking about it sounds like this is on private land? If so did the hunt going to an "as needed" MH permit basis take away opportunity from everyone (even though everyone can be a MH assuming no violations) or did it take away opportunity from those who are in good with the land owners where as everyone else would still be pretty much SOL?
Most of the land in the Peshastin and Malaga units is/was USFS. I know they did change the boundaries some a couple years ago when the hunts pretty much went all MH. There used to be several permit hunts that would take place in August and September and then November through February. Most of the hunts were antlerless but they also issued a few any bull tags.
I know a lot of people who drew these tags over the years and I even drew one myself in 1994. Unfortunately that was a year that most of the unit burnt up in the summer and the elk had moved out. :) While a few elk were killed by permit holders on private land this was generally not the case. Most of the elk that were shot around orchards were during the winter months and a lot of times those hunts would be coordinated by a WDFW officer who would call a permit holder to get them in contact with a land owner who was having problems. The majority of elk that were killed on these hunts by far came off of public land. I had friends and family that drew these tags and I went along on hunts and all of them killed elk on public land.