In an effort to bolster hunting, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife announced its second Take a Friend Hunting contest. Participants are eligible for a lengthy list of prizes including hunting gear.
To be eligible for the contest, both the experienced hunter (mentor) and the new or returning hunter (mentee) must have a valid 2018 Oregon hunting license and be age 18 or older. New or returning hunters are those who have never purchased an Oregon hunting license, purchased for the first time in 2017, or have not purchased since 2013.
Both Oregon residents and non-residents are eligible to enter the contest. Hunters can take a friend, spouse or any family member along hunting, as long as they meet eligibility requirements.
Last year was the first Take a Friend Hunting Contest. A total of 1,546 people joined the contest (773 entries of two hunters, the mentor and the mentee) and 22 people won prizes from $50 gift cards to the grand prize of a statewide deer tag.
“Learning to hunt can be challenging for adults who didn’t grow up hunting,” said Chris Willard, ODFW recruitment and retention coordinator. “Mentoring by a friend or relative is a great way for those interested in hunting to get started.
The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation supports the effort to get more hunters afield. Additionally, RMEF is providing an Eberlestock Team Elk Pack as part of the Take a Friend Hunting prize offerings.
Go here to see other information including a list of the prizes.
(Photo source: Dave Budeau/Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife)