Alligator hunters class - tcpalm.com

July 14, 2008
OKEECHOBEE — The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is offering alligator hunters a free three-hour class, in preparation for the Aug. 15 to Nov. 1 statewide alligator harvest. The class will be from 2 to 5 p.m. Aug. 3 at the Okeechobee County Civic Center, 1750 U.S. 98 North.

Reservations are not required to attend. For directions, call (863) 462-5195 .

Class attendance is not mandatory for licensed hunters, but the FWC recommends participants attend. Class topics include preparing for the hunt, hunting techniques and safety, harvesting and processing, caring for alligator hide and alligator hunting rules and regulations. People without alligator harvest permits can also attend.

All hunt permits have been sold for this year, though alligator trapping “agent” permits are available for $52. Agent permits enable permit holders to assist a licensed trapper in taking alligators, only in the presence of the trapper.

Permitted alligator hunters can expect to receive their licenses and hide-validation tags by today. For information, visit MyFWC.com/gators and click “Statewide Hunts.”