Hunter Safety Courses Remind Local Sportsmen to Stay Sharp as Pheasant and Deer Seasons Arrive

With pheasant season officially underway and deer season right around the corner, hunters across Northwest Kansas are gearing up for one of the busiest times of the year in the outdoors. NWKS Radio’s Kristina sat down with Marshall Rhea, a certified Hunter Education and Conceal Carry instructor, to talk about firearm safety, hunter education requirements, and the importance of responsible practices in the field.

Learning Before Loading

“Safety is the number one thing,” Rhea said. “You definitely want to take a class before you go afield. You’ll learn how to load and unload safely, handle firearms properly, and identify your target. You’ll also cover ammunition types and all the essentials you need to know.”

Rhea noted that hunter education is about more than just personal safety — it’s also about conservation and respect for the land. “Hunter safety teaches game conservation,” he said. “You learn about harvesting the surplus, providing habitats, and showing respect for landowners. It’s a great family activity and helps ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.”

Who Needs Hunter Education?

In Kansas, anyone born on or after July 1, 1957, must complete an approved Hunter Education course before purchasing a hunting license. Rhea explained that while anyone can attend the class, participants must be at least 12 years old to receive certification.

Once certified, the hunter education card is valid for life — unless revoked by a court or wildlife official due to a game law violation.

Classes cover firearm handling, field safety, conservation, and ethics, with a written test and practical exercises at the end. “You’ll get your hunter safety card the same day you pass,” Rhea added.

Conceal Carry: A Separate Certification

While hunter education focuses on firearm safety for hunting, Kansas Conceal Carry classes are a separate program designed for those interested in personal protection. Rhea said many people confuse the two but stressed that they cover entirely different aspects of firearm use.

His next Conceal Carry class will be held November 22 at the Oakley VFW, where participants will learn gun handling, firearm storage, ammunition safety, and Kansas state laws. Participants must be at least 18 years old to be certified.

Getting Certified Locally

Those interested in taking a Hunter Education course can find classes through the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks website or through local instructors like Rhea.

For information on Rhea’s Conceal Carry class on November 22 in Oakley, residents can call 785-672-5230 to register.

As Rhea put it, “Education is the best safety tool you can carry with you — whether you’re out hunting or handling a firearm at home.”