Outdoors Guy takes a big Provincial step

youth

(Photo depicts how I feel right now)

Ok folks, this may sound hard to believe for those who don’t know me that well, BUT, brace yourself for this…and promise not to laugh. 

I do NOT currently have an Ontario Hunting Card..there, I said it!! 

Yes, after living in Ontario for nearly 15-years, I thought it was high time I take the Ontario Hunter’s exam to finally get my very own, very first Ontario Hunting Card. 

I’m a big boy now – soon to be hunting in a very big province! 

In my 30+ years of hunting on the Quebec-side, I honestly never saw the need to pursue game over here; nor did I really have the sparetime. 

Until now… 

Let’s just say the coyote situation has prompted me to get my arse in gear; as it were. Who knows, I might even get back into trapping too. At least I’ve already taken the ON trapping course and managed to hold onto the certificate. 

Believe it or not, I actually did take the Ontario Hunter’s Safety Course back in 1988, while I was attending Carleton University. I never did end-up taking the exam or getting my card, though, don’t ask me why. 

Unfortunately the MNR told me yesterday they have long since lost any record of that course from the 80’s, but fortunately with my Quebec hunting card I am allowed to challenge the Ontario Hunter’s Exam, but only once.

Yippee!!! (Wait a sec, I’m not there yet)

If I pass, I can upgrade my current Outdoors Card to my very own IMA HUNTER Card. (Except with 187/Brown on it) If I fail, well, lets just say I will be acting rather sheepish for awhile..never to speak of this again. (and may even be forced to delete this post) 

huntercard

When I finally decided I wanted to take this Ontario hunting thing by the horns,  I got in contact with my old friend Wenda Cochran. She will be fixing me up with the Exam to be held on March 27th in Carp. 

I have it marked on my calendar with an asterisk!! 

You see, I took the Firearms Exam (PAL) with Wenda several years ago and it was as smooth as butter. She and her husband Peter do a marvellous job, so keep them in mind. Wenda is in charge of the Hunter Safety course, the Canadian Firearms Course & Exams, Possession & Acquisition, Minor’s Permit and Hunting License. 

To contact Wenda Cochran: 

http://lanark.realontario.ca/browse-sectors/education/13957.html 

Who knows, this whole Ontario hunting thing may turn into a great long-term relationship in a province which certainly has a lot to offer, from all the stories I’ve heard(& written) over the years.

Feel free to comment(those who aren’t too shocked or disgusted)

Outdoorsguy