The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has opened lottery registration for its second annual Intro to Squirrel Hunting Workshop, offering adults interested in small game hunting an opportunity to gain hands-on experience under the guidance of experienced instructors.
The two-day, overnight workshop is scheduled for January 29–30, 2027, at Dewey Wills Wildlife Management Area (WMA). Participation is limited to eight individuals, who will be selected through a lottery system.
The registration deadline is December 5, 2026.
Workshop Designed for Beginning Hunters
The program is intended to introduce novice hunters ages 18 and older to squirrel hunting and other essential aspects of small
game hunting on Louisiana’s Wildlife Management Areas.
Participants will be paired with LDWF staff members who will provide instruction on safe, ethical and effective hunting practices.
The workshop will combine classroom education with practical field experience, allowing participants to develop foundational hunting skills in a supervised environment.
Instruction will include firearm safety, hunting techniques, field experience and opportunities to participate in an actual squirrel hunt alongside an instructor.
The program is designed to help beginning hunters develop the knowledge and confidence needed to pursue small game hunting independently while emphasizing responsible wildlife management and outdoor safety.
Eligibility and Equipment Requirements
Individuals interested in participating must meet several requirements established by LDWF.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and possess Hunter Education certification or qualify for an exemption.
Selected participants will also need the following equipment and documentation:
A shotgun, which LDWF can provide if needed.
A hunter orange cap.
A valid Louisiana Basic Hunting License.
A Wildlife Management Area Access Permit.
Participants are encouraged to review the requirements before submitting their lottery applications to ensure they are eligible to attend.
Only Eight Participants Will Be Selected
Due to the hands-on nature of the workshop and the individualized instruction provided by LDWF staff, participation is limited to eight individuals.
Interested applicants must enter the lottery by December 5, 2026, to be considered.
Those selected will be notified by email or telephone no later than December 11, 2026.
The lottery system provides applicants an opportunity to participate in the educational program while maintaining a small group size for supervised field activities.
How to Register
Registration is available through the Louisiana Outdoors lottery application system.
Registration Deadline: December 5, 2026
Workshop Dates: January 29–30, 2027
Location: Dewey Wills Wildlife Management Area
Available Spots: Eight participants selected by lottery
Eligibility: Adults ages 18 and older who are Hunter Education certified or exempt
Lottery Application: Louisiana Outdoors Lottery Applications
For questions about the workshop, eligibility requirements or registration, individuals may contact LDWF’s Hunter Education program at HunterEducation@wlf.la.gov.
Promoting Safe and Responsible Hunting
The Intro to Squirrel Hunting Workshop is part of LDWF’s efforts to introduce new participants to Louisiana’s hunting traditions while promoting firearm safety, ethical hunting practices and responsible use of public wildlife resources.
Small game hunting provides opportunities for individuals to develop outdoor skills, learn about wildlife habitats and participate in Louisiana’s longstanding hunting heritage.
By pairing beginning hunters with knowledgeable instructors, LDWF aims to provide a supportive environment where participants can gain practical experience and develop safe hunting habits.
With only eight available positions, interested individuals are encouraged to submit their applications before the December 5 deadline.
Selected participants will be notified by December 11, with the workshop taking place January 29–30 at Dewey Wills Wildlife Management Area.