Idaho bowhunters in need of bowhunter education certification now have the option of being certified online. The course is designed to help Idaho bowhunters sharpen their skills and learn safe in-the-field practices.

"The Internet course teaches the same curriculum taught in the bowhunter instructor-led course using the same student manual," said Brenda Beckley, hunter education and recruitment manager for the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. "This course is another option for our students. Our instructor-led courses will continue to be taught as it is preferred by some students."

Students can now certify without attending a field day, but can voluntarily attend a field exercise in an instructor-led course by making arrangements in advance through their local Fish and Game office.

The Internet course is a self-paced, interactive course that accommodates all types of learners.

Designed to be a fun and informative presentation of essential safety information, short videos cover topics such as bowhunting methods, tree stand safety and archery practice. The course also teaches important skills such as blood trailing and distance estimation.

The Idaho-approved online bowhunter course allows students to study for free, only paying the $30 fee after they have successfully passed the final exam.

The course was made to fit the learner's schedule, with progress automatically saved so students can learn at their own pace.

The course is also mobile friendly, allowing students to take it at any time from using their computer, smartphone, tablet, e-reader or Internet TV.

Students must be at least 10 years old and a state resident to take Idaho's Bowhunter Education course.

To become certified, students can complete their bowhunter education at http://www.bowhunter-ed.com/idaho.

The course, Bowhunter Ed, is the official course of the National Bowhunter Education Foundation.