RIDGEFIELD — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will host its annual National Hunting and Fishing Day celebration on Saturday, Sept. 28 in Cowlitz County. 

“This free event is a great, family-oriented way to introduce youth to target shooting, hunting, and fishing,” said David Whipple, WDFW’s Hunter Education Manager. “It’s also a chance to highlight the ongoing role hunters and anglers play in wildlife management and conservation.” 

This year’s event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Cowlitz Public Shooting Range in Cowlitz County located at 1000 Toutle Park Road, Castle Rock, WA 98611. 

While the event is free, WDFW asks that you pre-register youth participants 17 years and younger to allow WDFW to prepare for the expected attendance. Participants can pre-register to attend one of two sessions during the event. Session one is 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and session two is 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. 

Attendees can enjoy educational displays, conservation partner booths, and hands-on activities including trout fishing, rod and reel casting practice, and arts and crafts. Youth under 18 who attend the event with an accompanying adult can shoot WDFW firearms, including archery equipment, 20-gauge shotguns, and .22, .223, and air rifles for free. 

“This is a great opportunity to receive training, guidance, and encouragement from certified hunter education instructors, master hunters, and range safety officers,” said Whipple. “Participants will also learn the importance of hunter safety.” 

Youth attendees will receive a reusable drawstring bag with several safety-related items. There will also be door prize drawings and giveaways donated by local and national businesses.  

WDFW needs volunteers to help make the National Hunting and Fishing Day event a huge success. Registration is now open for individuals interested in helping support this important community event. To volunteer for National Hunting and Fishing Day or other opportunities, visit the WDFW volunteer event list webpage. 

More information about the event is available on the National Hunting and Fishing Day event webpage. 

The National Shooting Sports Foundation originally created National Hunting and Fishing Day to celebrate the conservation successes of hunters and anglers. The day was formalized by Congress in 1971 and signed into law in 1972 by President Nixon. 

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.