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SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. - The West Virginia Apprentice Hunting and Trapping License (Class AH) is now available online, according to Frank Jezioro, director of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. The license allows people to try hunting without completing a hunter education course.
"Hunter safety education can be a hurdle for novice hunters and we're really expecting to see many new hunters take advantage of this opportunity," said Jezioro. "After these novice hunters get a taste of the experience, we believe they will complete hunter safety courses and become lifetime hunters."
Apprentice licenses can only be purchased online at www.wvhunt.com by people who have not previously held a hunting license. Residents who have reached their 18th birthday can purchase a Class AH license for $19. This license includes the same privileges as a Class A (resident hunting and trapping) license, so holders must buy a Class CS Conservation Stamp.
Nonresidents who have reached their 18th birthday can purchase a Class AAH license for $119. This license includes the same privileges as a Class E (nonresident hunting and trapping) license, so holders must buy a Class CS/LE Conservation Stamp/Law Enforcement stamp.
Resident and nonresident youth ages 15 through 17 can buy a Junior Apprentice Hunting and Trapping License for $16. The Class AHJ license for residents includes the same privileges as a Class XJ (junior sportsman hunting/trapping/fishing) license. The Class AAHJ license for nonresidents, combined with a Class CS/LE stamp, includes the same privileges as a Class XXJ license.
Hunters may buy up to three apprentice licenses within five consecutive years. Apprentice license holders must be supervised by a licensed hunter at least 18 years of age.
"We're hoping this license will help us recruit first-time hunters, whether they be youth just getting a start or adults wanting to give hunting a try," said Curtis I. Taylor, chief of the Wildlife Resources Section of DNR. "Hunter recruitment is a prime topic around the country and is key to continuing the successful management programs we have implemented in the past."
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