The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s (TPWD) Community Archery Program is teaming up with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to host an Explore Bowhunting workshop at La Sal Del Rey National Wildlife Reserve on Saturday, January 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The free event, included with park entrance, is designed to introduce participants of all ages to the fundamentals of bowhunting. Equipment will be provided, making the program accessible to beginners as well as experienced archers.

Event Highlights

• Instruction and demonstrations: Texas Game Wardens, Operation Game Thief, the Texas Youth Hunt Program, TPWD Hunter’s Education, and other partners will guide participants through archery basics and hunting preparation.
• Interactive activities: A state-of-the-art archery trailer with games, an adaptive archery range, and 3D target practice focusing on anatomy and shot placement.
• Hands-on learning: Demonstrations on animal processing (skinning, quartering, butchering), cooking conversations, and gear examples.
• Youth engagement: Hunting simulation activities and opportunities to learn about public hunting and regulations.

Adam Lewis, TPWD community archery specialist, emphasized the inclusive nature of the program: “Whether you are a seasoned archer, beginner or just starting to gain interest in the sport of archery and bowhunting, this is a great event to hone your skills, further your knowledge and understand what it takes to be a successful bowhunter.”

About the Program

The TPWD Community Archery Program operates on a “train the trainer” model, equipping teachers and community leaders with curriculum from the National Archery in the Schools Program. This includes training in range set-up, safety, program design, and coaching. Specialists also provide Explore Bowhunting and Explore Bowfishing programming to introduce new audiences to outdoor skills.

For more information, visit the Community Archery Program webpage on the TPWD site or watch a video of an Explore Bowhunting event on the TPWD YouTube channel.