The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is inviting hunters of all ages to test their skills in the newly updated Utah Hunting Skills Challenge, an annual competition designed to sharpen hunting, marksmanship, and safety abilities. Previously known as the Youth Hunter Education Challenge, the event has been rebranded to reflect recent expansions that now allow adults to participate alongside youth.

This year’s challenge will take place on June 20-21 at the Lee Kay Public Shooting Range in Salt Lake City. Anyone who has completed Hunter Education is eligible to compete, and participants must register on Eventbrite by May 30 to secure their spot. The competition is open to three age categories: youth under 15, youth ages 15-18, and adults 19 and older. The registration fee is $35 per participant.

A competition for all ages

Originally launched by the National Rifle Association in 1985, the competition has been a long-standing tradition in Utah, helping young hunters hone their skills. In recent years, the DWR expanded the program to include an adult division, providing a fun and competitive environment for families to participate together.

“The Utah Hunting Skills Challenge is a great way for hunters–both youth and adults–to showcase the skills they learned in Hunter Education,” said Troy Anderson, DWR shooting sports manager. “We added an adult category a few years ago because it never hurts anyone to improve their hunting skills, and we wanted the name change to more accurately portray that this event is open to all ages.”

Exciting challenges and prizes

Participants will compete in a variety of events, including:

• Wildlife identification – Test your knowledge of Utah’s diverse wildlife.
• .22 long rifle shooting – Demonstrate accuracy and marksmanship.
•  Shotgun shooting – Hit moving targets to prove your hunting reflexes.
• Archery – A test of precision and focus with a bow and arrow.
• Muzzleloader shooting – Back by popular demand, this traditional firearm challenge returns.
• Orienteering – Navigate the outdoors with a map and compass, another returning favorite.
• Safety trail – Engage in scenarios that test hunting ethics and safety awareness.
• Written exam – A test covering hunting regulations and Hunter Education principles.

Prizes will be awarded to the top five finishers in the junior and senior divisions and to the top three adult competitors. Additionally, all participants will receive free trial access to onX Maps, a popular GPS mapping tool for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.

“There are a lot of great things about this program, and one of the most rewarding things is to see the excitement of the youth when they master new skills as part of the competition,” Anderson said. “We hope that this becomes a new tradition for many Utah families interested in outdoor recreation.”

For more details and to register, visit the DWR website or search for the event on Eventbrite before the May 30 deadline.