WOMEN’S HUNTING PROGRAM IN WYOMING – The demographic and population of hunters has changed drastically over the years. While out hunting these days, it’s not uncommon to see men, women and children enjoying the outdoors. Recently, Wyoming has taken even bigger strides to get women involved in the hunting passion.
Women’s Antelope Hunt
If you’ve ever visited Wyoming, you’ll know that Wyoming are prevalent in the state. A trip down Interstate 80 can be somewhat of an antelope tour. Due to these high number of antelope, the Wyoming Women’s Foundation has partnered with the state of Wyoming to create the Women’s Antelope Hunt.
The Women’s Antelope Hunt began in 2013. The hunt had two major goals. The first goal of the hunt was to raise money for the Wyoming Women’s Foundation. The second, and even more important goal, was to teach women the skills of hunting and provide mentorship.
“The new hunters that we’re seeing are what I would consider nontraditional hunters,” said Kathryn Boswell, Wyoming Game and Fish’s hunter and angler participation coordinator. “They’re people of all ages that didn’t grow up hunting, don’t have that family support or family network to tap into. So the more that we can do to help them, to mentor them, to provide encouragement and mentoring and sharing our knowledge and sharing our love of the outdoors and conservation, that’s the key.”
Female Hunters
Women still make up the minority of hunters. However, through initiatives like the Women’s Antelope Hunt, more and more women are gaining the passion. In a recent article by Ehuntr.com, the author talked about the harassment and hardships that some female hunters have to endure. However, they endure it well. These are tough women who love what they do. And they are successful in an activity that has been predominantly male oriented.
“It’s been a traditionally male dominated activity, and you don’t transition to having as many women involved overnight or even over eight years,” said Bekah Smith, director of the Foundation.
Do you know a female that hunts, or are you a female that hunts? What recommendations would you have for future female hunters?
