Getting Started Outdoors (GSO) Hunting Workshops address informational barriers to participation and primarily meant for those who are interested in hunting, but don’t know how to get started. GSO is accomplished by providing a surrogate mentored experience for those lacking social support via existing hunting family member or friend.
GSO workshops are designed to teach new to hunting individuals "how to hunt" via a multi-faceted hunting-related skills and strategies experience and then begin hunting on their own, or with the support from family member and friends following the GSO.
Potential hunts, although not guaranteed, may/might follow the GSO workshop, but are largely dependent on conservation partner support (i.e., experienced hunter volunteers) with dates/times TBD and individuals must complete the GSO workshop to be eligible….no exceptions.
NEVER Hunted (primary target audience).
MINIMAL Hunting Experience (you have NOT ACTIVELY hunted for MORE than THREE years).
LACKING Social Support (you have no readily available hunting family members or friends).
LAPSED (non-active) hunters including those that have NEVER harvested big game (i.e., turkey or deer).
Hunter Safety Certification: Hunter Education Courses (Online, virtual and in person courses are available)
VALID NC Hunting License: Hunting, Fishing and Trapping Licenses
Questions regarding hunting license requirements contact NCWRC Customer Service Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. @ 888-248-6834 or licenses@ncwildlife.org.
Learn about upcoming webinars by subscribing to the agency's monthly e-newsletter N.C. Wildlife Update.
GSO attendance is by request only and subject to attendance requirements and prerequisites as noted above.
Since GSO’s are largely dependent on conservation partner facilitation, existing, experienced hunters are sorely needed as instructors, assistant instructors, logistics assistants and scouting/hunting mentors.
Getting Started Outdoors - New to hunting? This is the course for you.