July 2025
Jul26Sat
Duck Decoy Constructing & Painting Clinic (Morning)
Rixeyville, VA
MAKE IT - HUNT IT - SHOW IT!
Join us for a duck decoy constructing & painting clinic. The participants will construct and paint a decoy (type to be revealed at the event) that can be used for your next hunt and entered in the Rappahannock Carvers Guild decoy contest. Throughout the event, information about waterfowl will be discussed and displayed with the participants to make this a fun-filled opportunity! Anyone under the age of 18 needs to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. No firearms or live ammunition.
VOW Course: This event qualifies as a VOW @ the Outdoor Adventure (Variable Course). This event can be used to complete the Outdoor Skills Certification in the Virginia Outdoor Women (VOW) Program. This event is open to all registrants.
Jul26Sat
Duck Decoy Constructing & Painting Clinic (Afternoon)
Rixeyville, VA
MAKE IT - HUNT IT - SHOW IT!
Join us for a duck decoy constructing & painting clinic. The participants will construct and paint a decoy (type to be revealed at the event) that can be used for your next hunt and entered in the Rappahannock Carvers Guild decoy contest. Throughout the event, information about waterfowl will be discussed and displayed with the participants to make this a fun-filled opportunity! Anyone under the age of 18 needs to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. No firearms or live ammunition.
VOW Course: This event qualifies as a VOW @ the Outdoor Adventure (Variable Course). This event can be used to complete the Outdoor Skills Certification in the Virginia Outdoor Women (VOW) Program. This event is open to all registrants.
Jul30Wed
VOW @ the Lake – Women’s Introduction to Flyfishing
Charles City, VA
Come learn how to flyfish with Virginia Outdoor Women and partners the American Daughters of Conservation, Richmond Fly Women, and Flyfishers of Virginia! We will have skilled instructors available to answer all of your flyfishing questions!
NOTE: A FRESHWATER FISHING LICENSE IS REQUIRED FOR THIS EVENT, AND MUST BE PURCHASED PRIOR TO ATTENDING AND VALID FOR THE DATE OF THE EVENT!
Purchase your license online (account required): https://dwr.virginia.gov/licenses
During the workshop, participants will take part in hands-on breakout sessions covering essential fishing skills, including fly casting practice, knot tying, rigging up, and fishing. This event also provides a welcoming space for women to network, share experiences, and build lasting connections with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. DWR is dedicated to fostering a community of women who enjoy the outdoors, recognize the importance of conservation and outdoor recreation, and seek opportunities for personal growth, independence, and empowerment.
This event is scheduled until 8:30pm but may extend until dark. A detailed schedule is available on the registration page.
August 2025
Aug2Sat
VOW Social Event @ Stable Craft Brewery – Women’s Intro to Archery
Waynesboro, VA
Come on out to Virginia Outdoor Women's first social event! DWR is pleased to partner with Stable Craft Brewery & Cidery to bring you a Women's Intro to Archery event, and of course, a social hour at the brewery afterwards! Come enjoy learning about archery with DWR certified instructors, and then enjoy the welcoming and picturesque scenery and sense of community that Stable Craft has to offer!
Agenda:
2:30 - 2:45 Registration
2:45 - 5:00 Intro to Archery Session (Hosted by DWR)
5:00 - 6:00 Social Hour (Hosted by Stable Craft Brewery & Cidery)
Registration for this event will open June 30th at 8:00am. Please note that VOW Social Events do not count towards the VOW certification courses.
Aug9Sat
Tree-stand Safety Workshop
Nokesville, VA
This interactive workshop will include a discussion about tree stand types (including ladder stands, climbing stands, and saddle equipment), their uses, and safety. Lunch will be provided by The Fairfax Wildlife Club. Donations will be accepted.
Aug9Sat
VOW @ the Field 2 – Women’s Intro to Dove Hunting
Providence Forge, VA
Come learn the basics of Dove Hunting with Virginia Outdoor Women (VOW) and Virginia Shooting Sports!
During the workshop, participants will take part in hands-on breakout sessions covering shooting skills, gear and patterning, general safety, dogs, and more! This event also provides a welcoming space for women to network, share experiences, and build lasting connections with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. DWR is dedicated to fostering a community of women who enjoy the outdoors, recognize the importance of conservation and outdoor recreation, and seek opportunities for personal growth, independence, and empowerment.
A variety of shotguns and ammunition will be available, but women are welcome to bring their own shotguns for this event. General safety checks of personal firearms will be required. A brief agenda is available on the registration page. More information will be provided closer to the event.
Aug14Thu
Introduction to Angling
King George, VA
Never fished before but always wanted to try? Haven't been fishing since you were a kid? Now is your chance!
Virginia DWR is hosting an Introduction to Angling workshop on Thursday, August 14th from 5:30 - 8:30 pm at Hopyard Landing on the tidal Rappahannock River in King George County. Learn how to cast a fishing rod, tie your own knots, and catch a variety of warmwater fish! Participants will learn techniques to catch species like blue catfish, channel catfish, bluegill, and largemouth bass, among others. DWR staff and volunteers will provide personalized, one-on-one instruction to beginner anglers, offering tips and tricks for fishing across the Commonwealth.
Pre-registration is required for this hands-on educational workshop!
NOTE: A FRESHWATER FISHING LICENSE IS REQUIRED FOR THIS EVENT, AND MUST BE PURCHASED PRIOR TO ATTENDING AND VALID FOR THE DATE OF THE EVENT!
Anyone 16 years of age or older must purchase their license online (account required): https://dwr.virginia.gov/licenses
Options include an annual freshwater fishing license or a short-term five-day freshwater fishing license.
VOW Course: This event qualifies as a VOW @ the Pond (General Introduction to Fishing Course). This event can be used to complete the Fishing Certification in the Virginia Outdoor Women (VOW) Program. This event is open to all registrants.
Aug17Sun
VOW @ the Camp I – Women’s Introduction to Camping
Richmond, VA
DWR is excited to host the first Virginia Outdoor Women - VOW @ the Camp I course! Come learn the basics of camping from experienced instructors with Virginia Outdoor Women!
In this introductory course, participants will learn the essentials of camping etiquette (rules & regulations), sleeping systems, food, and gear and clothing considerations. This event also provides a welcoming space for women to network, share experiences, and build lasting connections with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. DWR is dedicated to fostering a community of women who enjoy the outdoors, recognize the importance of conservation and outdoor recreation, and seek opportunities for personal growth, independence, and empowerment.
This course is being held at DWR Headquarters in the Boardroom. No prior experience required. All necessary materials will be provided.
Aug23Sat
Shooting Skills: Shotgun and Hunting Rifle Maintenance
Rixeyville, VA
This interactive workshop will show the participants how to successfully clean and maintain a shotgun (pump, semi-automatic, and break open) and a hunting rifle (bolt action and semi-automatic).
The workshop will cover:
1.) Proper cleaning supplies
2.) Proper cleaning materials and fluids
3.) Tool selection and use
4.) Proper cleaning procedures and "how to"
VOW Course: This event qualifies as a VOW @ the Outdoor Adventure (Variable Course). This event can be used to complete the Outdoor Skills Certification in the Virginia Outdoor Women (VOW) Program. This event is open to all registrants.
Aug23Sat
Backwoods Survival for Hunters and Hikers
Delaplane, VA
Successful hunting and outdoor adventure depends on good planning and preparation, especially with the skills needed to survive the unexpected. When it comes to the outdoors, hunting and hiking pose the greatest risk of becoming lost, or worse; being lost, injured and unprepared to survive the elements. When your cell phone loses power and your GPS can’t find a signal, your best hope for making it through, are the skills you’ll learn in this 4-hour block of hands-on, survival training. Led by expert instructors, you’ll practice advanced techniques for making fire in difficult situations. You’ll discover the most efficient methods of using essential survival gear. And, you’ll learn to use those special features of map, compass and the natural surroundings guaranteed to keep you out of trouble, or enable self-rescue when the worst happens. Bring a friend and let us help get you ready for your next outdoor adventure.
VOW Course: This event qualifies as a VOW @ the Backcountry (Survival). This event can be used to complete the Outdoor Skills Certification in the Virginia Outdoor Women (VOW) Program. This event is open to all registrants.
Aug23Sat
VOW Weekend Event – Amelia Wildlife Management Area
Amelia Court House, VA
DWR is proud to offer this Virginia Outdoor Women (VOW) Weekend Event at Amelia Wildlife Management Area! Weekend Events are comprised of different sessions that allow women to experience different forms of outdoor recreation. All instructors are certified by DWR and have years of experience. We welcome women of all ages and experience levels, and encourage women to come try something new!
Sessions include (all participants rotate through all four stations):
1. Shotgun
2. Fishing
3. Wildlife ID/Naturalist Walk
4. Boating (Kayaking/Paddleboarding)
More information will be sent out prior to the event via email. Registration for this event opens on August 1, 2025 at 8:00am.
Aug23Sat
Introductory Waterfowl Hunting Workshop
White Stone, VA
This Introductory Waterfowl Hunting Workshop will include a live fire station, a decoy setup station, and a waterfowl identification station. Minimum age to attend is 14 years old. Anyone under the age of 18 must attend with a registered parent. You may bring your own firearm (cased, unloaded, and left locked in your vehicle until you are instructed to bring it out). ALL ammunition will be provided; do not bring your own. Eye and ear protection will be required. Please dress for the weather that day including closed toe shoes. Lunch will be provided courtesy of the Virginia Hunter Education Association. This workshop is a partnership event made possible by the Virginia DWR, Rappahannock Pistol and Rifle Club, and the Virginia Hunter Education Association (www.vahea.org).
This event qualifies as a VOW @ the Field 2; General Workshop with Live Fire (any species). This event can be used to complete the Hunting Certification in the Virginia Outdoor Women (VOW) Program. This event is open to all registrants.
Aug23Sat
Annual Youth Shooting Sports Event
Luray, VA
Our Annual Youth Shooting Sports Event is for youth ages 7 to 17. The capacity is 32 youth registrants; pre-registration required (no walk-ins). Parents/guardians need not register, but are welcome to attend.
The registered students will be introduced to the shooting sports. They will shoot shotguns, air rifles, archery equipment, muzzleloader rifles, and .22 caliber rimfire rifles. Additionally, the students will learn survival techniques and turkey calling.
The event is free. All safety equipment, firearms, ammunition, and archery equipment will be provided by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. Lunch will be provided by the Page Valley Sportsman's Club.
Aug23Sat
Youth Archery and Angling Introductory Workshop
Franklin, VA
The Luck Association in partnership with the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources and the City of Franklin Parks and Recreation will be hosting a Youth Archery and Angling Introductory Workshop. This program introduces participants ages 7-15 to the basics of archery and angling (fishing). Topics will cover basic archery safety, equipment, and shooting techniques. Basic fishing techniques include casting, bait & tackle, fish identification, and more. All equipment will be provided. A parent/guardian will need to check-in at the event and is expected to stay with a registered youth participant throughout the program. Lunch will be provided, but you may bring your own. Please dress appropriately for the weather.
Aug23Sat
Tree-stand Safety Workshop
Maidens, VA
This is a basic workshop covering all types of tree stands and how to use them properly and safely. This is designed for new or novice hunters. Experienced hunters are welcome to learn more about the safety aspects of the use of an elevated stand. We will cover information on hang-on, climbing, and ladder stands as well as saddles.
Aug30Sat
Deer Processing Clinic
Rixeyville, VA
This hands-on deer processing clinic will demonstrate large game butchering and processing for beginners and experienced individuals with interest. Deer skinning, butchering, and packaging for transport will all be done by participants under the guidance of Hunter Education Instructors. Participants are encouraged to bring a cooler for transporting venison to take home and to bring a lunch. Rain or shine. No personal knives allowed.
VOW Course: This event qualifies as a VOW @ the Table (Food Prep/Processing). This event can be used to complete the Hunting Certification in the Virginia Outdoor Women (VOW) Program. This event is open to all registrants.
Aug30Sat
Exploring Virginia’s Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)
Rixeyville, VA
This interactive workshop will cover how to explore Virginia's Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) and choose the WMA that satisfies your desire to hunt, bird-watch, hike, fish, and primitive camp.
VOW Course: This event qualifies as a VOW @ the Outdoor Adventure (Variable Course). This event can be used to complete the Outdoor Skills Certification in the Virginia Outdoor Women (VOW) Program. This event is open to all registrants.
September 2025
Sep4Thu
Squirrel Hunting 101
Virtual
Join us in this virtual squirrel hunting workshop and learn the basics of squirrel hunting. Topics of discussion will include:
1) Squirrel biology and habitat
2) Hunting techniques
3) Hunting seasons, laws, and license requirements
4) Choosing the right equipment
5) Care and cleaning/cooking
6) Firearm safety
7) Finding places to hunt
Sep12Fri–Sep14Sun
Virginia Hunter Skills Weekend
Appomattox, VA
Hands-on instruction and live-fire activities with over 24 class selections in three time slots Saturday morning, Saturday afternoon, and Sunday morning, with special evening activities after dinner on Friday and Saturday. Open to anyone age 11 and over. Anyone under age 18 must attend with a parent/guardian and must be registered for the same classes.
Registration cost is $170.00 per person and includes all meals, lodging, instruction, and equipment required for the activities.
Registration is EXCLUSIVELY through Holiday Lake 4-H Educational Center via this web link:
https://www.holidaylake4h.com/virginia-hunter-skills-weekend
For general information about the event visit: https://www.vahea.org/education/#hunterskillsweekends
This is a partnership program made possible by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, the Virginia Hunter Education Association, and Holiday lake 4-H Educational Center.
Sep13Sat
Project WILD Educator Workshop
Fredericksburg, VA
Project WILD workshops equip formal and community educators with ideas, tools, and resources to share engaging, environmental education with K-12 students. Each attendee receives a certificate and their own Project WILD Guide with completion of a workshop courtesy of the VA Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR). Project WILD features activities emphasizing terrestrial species and their habitats. A wide range of ecological concepts are covered, including food webs or energy flow, adaptations, interdependence, carrying capacity, and habitats.
FREE, pre-registration required. You must be a resident of Virginia to sign up for this event. All registrants for this event must be 18 years of age by September 13, 2025.
Dress for the outdoors/weather and bring a packed lunch & water bottle with you. Light refreshments will be provided.
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resource's Wildlife Education Program is an outreach effort to promote wildlife education and conservation in schools through the Virginia Project WILD Program, the Virginia Naturally Schools Recognition Program, and others.
Sep13Sat
Basic Deer Hunting Workshop
Galax, VA
Join us to learn basic deer hunting skills and have a chance to be selected to go on a mentored deer hunt with an experienced deer hunter at the Matthews State Forest in Galax, Virginia. This workshop and mentored hunt is designed for beginner youth hunters from 13 – 15 years of age, or any new hunter 16 years of age or older who plans to hunt for the first time with an apprentice license. At our Deer Hunting Workshop, we will discuss and learn about deer biology and habits, scouting and hunting techniques, game laws, tree-stand and firearm safety, as well as what to do after you harvest an animal.
Lunch will be provided. Our afternoon session will be mostly outdoors, so dress appropriately for the weather. A small number of participants will be randomly selected to have the opportunity to participate in a mentored deer hunt at the Matthews State Forest on September 27, 2025.
Sep27Sat
Tree-stand Safety Workshop
Rixeyville, VA
This is a 3-to-4-hour hands-on workshop designed to increase awareness for the participants on how to safely use all types of tree stands. Emphasis is placed on how to wear and use a full body fall arrest system and stay attached to the tree from the time the hunter leaves the ground until they return. In addition, instructions are given for the proper ways to use a ladder stand, climber stand, hang-on stand, and the new saddle stands.
October 2025
Oct4Sat
Growing Up WILD Educator Workshop
Fredericksburg, VA
Project WILD workshops equip formal and community educators with ideas, tools, and resources to share engaging, environmental education with K-12 students.
Growing Up WILD is an early childhood curriculum that builds on children’s sense of wonder about nature and invites them to explore wildlife and the world around them. This workshop provides an early foundation for developing positive impressions about nature and lifelong social and academic skills. Each attendee receives a certificate and their own Project WILD Guide with completion of a workshop courtesy of the VA Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR).
FREE, pre-registration required. You must be a resident of Virginia to sign up for this event. All registrants for this event must be 18 years of age by October 4, 2025.
Dress for the outdoors/weather and bring a water bottle with you. Light refreshments will be provided.
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resource's Wildlife Education Program is an outreach effort to promote wildlife education and conservation in schools through the Virginia Project WILD Program, the Virginia Naturally Schools Recognition Program, and others.
Oct18Sat
Deer Processing Workshop
Courtland, VA
Join this hands-on class to learn large game butchering and processing. Deer skinning, butchering and packaging for transport will be included. No gutting. Participants are encouraged to bring a cooler for transporting venison to take home and to bring a lunch. A sampling of venison dishes will be prepared for participants to try. Rain or shine. No personal knives allowed.