Julie Bolin from Brookwood, Alabama, learns the art of fly fishing from ADCNR Aquatic Education Coordinator Doug Darr during Alabama’s Becoming an Outdoors-Woman workshop.
MONTGOMERY-Each spring and fall, women from throughout the state and across the country converge on Columbiana, Alabama, for a three-day workshop designed for women ages 18 and older who would like to learn new outdoor skills. In addition to providing that training, the Alabama Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) workshop helps to create positive memories and build friendships for those who attend.
Registration for the next BOW workshop opens on August 7 for first-time attendees and August 12 for both first-timers and those who have previously attended. The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources sponsored event takes place at the 4-H Center near Columbiana, Alabama, on October 4-6, 2019.
Alabama BOW offers more than 40 classes taught by experienced instructors in a fun outdoor learning environment. Participants can choose four classes from a list of courses such as rifle, pistol, archery, fishing, camping, hiking, canoeing, ATV riding, mountain biking and many more. Regardless of age, outdoor knowledge or physical capability, there is a class suitable for everyone.
BOW coordinator Hope Grier said the classes are perfect for attendees who are new to the outdoors. “There are many ladies who have not been exposed to these outdoor activities and are apprehensive about trying them,” she said. “BOW is ideal for those women because everything is taught at a beginner level.”
Traci Adams from Charlotte, North Carolina, has attended Alabama’s BOW twice and highly 
recommends the workshop. “The staff is supportive, patient and wonderful,” she said. “I have made new friends and have experienced things I wouldn’t have otherwise gotten to try. Go once and you will be hooked!”
Julie Bolin from Brookwood, Alabama, attended BOW for the first time in 2018 and echoes Traci’s enthusiasm. “I learned the basics of fly fishing – a bucket list item,” she said. “I even caught a bass during the lesson. Now I have the basic equipment I need and love my new hobby.”
“The variety of classes offered at BOW means you can attend multiple workshops and take different classes each time,” Grier said. “Many of the women come back again and bring a friend.”
The registration fee for BOW is $275, which covers meals, dormitory-style lodging, program materials and instruction. For more information about this fall’s workshop including a complete list of classes and class descriptions or to register during the dates listed above, visit www.outdooralabama.com/bow.
“Enrollment is limited, and classes fill up pretty fast,” Grier said. “Those interested in attending BOW should register as soon as possible to make sure they get the classes they want.”
To view photos of past BOW workshops, visit Outdoor Alabama’s Flickr at www.flickr.com/photos/
Media Release/ Hunter Education/Alabama Department of Conservation & Natural Resources
