Hey folks, this is a super hunt for beginning hunters. The hunt area is expanded this year from years past. Take advantage of the opportunity.

The late fall turkey season is now open, from Nov. 20 through Dec. 15 in Game Management Units 105 through 142, 149 through 154 and 162 through 186. The limit is one turkey of either sex.

Local hunters show interest in Master Hunter Permit Program

Several hunters have called or e-mailed an interest in the Master Hunter Permit Program after three recent columns appeared in the Columbia Basin Herald recently. Master Hunter Hunt 2704 was initiated and was the focus of the columns.

We also recently had a master hunt in the Omak area where deer were causing damage in an orchard.

The goal at this time is to let prospective applicants know about the program and ask them to contact me at: dclay@atnet.net or 762-5158. When we get a feel for the number of people interested, a meeting place will be secured and a time set.

The meeting will be centered on the program and could be called an orientation about what to expect. Here is a little about the program to stimulate interest.

First, the next master hunter application period will be Jan. 1 through Feb. 15, 2013. The application fee is $50.

To attain the goal of a Certified master hunter, an applicant is required to: Demonstrate proficiency with a bow, handgun, muzzleloader, rifle, shotgun shooting shot, shotgun shooting slugs, or crossbow.

Provide at least 20 hours of volunteer service on a project benefiting state wildlife resources.

Attend Crime Observation and Reporting Training (C.O.R.T.). Receive a score of at least 80 percent on a written examination, based on provided independent-study materials. Sign an agreement to abide by the Master Hunter Code of Ethics. Submit to and pass a law enforcement background check.

Consider a Discover Pass as a gift

The Discover Pass was a controversial idea in the beginning, to say the least. Prospective buyers stayed away in droves. After the pass was allowed to be used on two vehicles, the idea was more readily accepted.

Now the pass has evolved another step. Read on.

Discover Pass: A great gift idea

New flexibility means buyers now may choose the start date

A new feature of the Discover Pass allows purchasers to choose the start date for the annual pass. The new feature makes the Discover Pass an excellent gift idea for family and friends who love the great outdoors.

The new "choose your date" option is now available to customers who buy the pass online at www.DiscoverPass.wa.gov or in-person from retailers who sell recreational licenses through the Washington Interactive Licensing Database system.

At the time of purchase, the buyer can activate the pass immediately or on any day within one year of the purchase date. The new option was passed into law in 2012 to allow greater flexibility to outdoor recreation enthusiasts, including those who want to give the pass as a gift.

Great move Discover Pass people. This means I can give a Discover Pass to my sister, who will not use it until the weather turns warmer in the spring. As stated, this pass would make a great Christmas gift.

The Discover Pass, authorized by the Legislature and Governor in 2011, is required on motor vehicles accessing state parks and other state-managed recreation lands. It was adopted to support the operation of state recreation lands, including those managed the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, the Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Department of Natural Resources. State Parks receives 84 percent of Discover Pass revenue; WDFW and DNR each receive 8 percent.