This August, the Wyoming Wildlife Federation (WWF) is once again hosting its More than Gatherers Women’s Learn to Hunt Program — a unique, immersive experience designed to welcome women into the world of hunting while building skills, confidence, and community along the way.
Taking place over two weekends — August 15–17 in Lander and August 22–24 in Dubois — the program goes well beyond the basics of Hunter Education. Participants dive deep into not only how to hunt, but why hunting matters in the broader context of conservation, food, and personal connection to the land.
More Than Just the Basics
At its core, More than Gatherers is about much more than pulling a trigger. It’s about understanding the responsibility hunters carry, the ethics of fair chase, and the role hunters play in wildlife conservation.
Over the two weekends, participants will gain hands-on experience in:
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Firearms safety and practice at the range
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Choosing the right rifle and gear for your hunt
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Bear and large carnivore safety
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Scouting and connecting with your quarry
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Wildlife identification and laws
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Field dressing, proper butchering techniques, and wild game cooking
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Backcountry survival, first aid, and horse packing
And, just as importantly, they’ll share meals, swap stories, and learn from each other in an encouraging space designed for women to ask questions and grow their confidence.
Building a Community of Women Hunters
For many women, breaking into hunting can feel intimidating. Gear choices, firearms, outdoor skills, and even cultural barriers often keep women from getting started. More than Gatherers creates a welcoming environment where women can learn side by side, guided by experienced mentors, and supported by new friends who share the same curiosity and courage.
“This program is about empowerment,” says Jess Johnson, WWF's Government Affairs Director and creator/instructor of More than Gatherers. “We want women to walk away not only with practical skills but with the confidence to step into the hunting world knowing they belong here, too.”
Connecting Hunting and Conservation
Beyond skills, More than Gatherers emphasizes the deep connection between hunting and conservation. From discussions about fair chase and ethical harvest, to understanding Wyoming’s wildlife laws, participants leave with a clearer picture of how hunters contribute to sustaining healthy landscapes and wildlife populations.
By preparing and sharing wild game meals together, participants also gain a deeper appreciation for the food on their plate and the effort it takes to bring it there.
Event Details
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Weekend One: August 15–17, 2025 | Lander, WY
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Weekend Two: August 22–24, 2025 | Dubois, WY
The first weekend focuses on ethics, wildlife knowledge, bear safety, rifle purchasing, butchering, and cooking. The second weekend adds intensive firearms handling and range time, backcountry first aid, survival skills, and horse packing — culminating in a celebration and film night to cap off the journey.
Check out photos from the first weekend below!
