WILTON — Members of the Wilton Fish & Game, 256 U.S. Route 2 West, are inviting the public, friends, members and guests to come enjoy the day with them Sunday, Oct. 21, when members will be giving tours of the facility and ranges.

Beginning at 10 a.m., Peter Wade of the Sebasticook Chapter of NAVHDA and owner and operator of Northern Exposure Kennel will be demonstrating “How to Start Your Bird Dog Training” in the NAVHDA (North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association) System. Some of the things that will be demonstrated are intro to the training table, whoa command, retrieving, tracking, basic bird work, e-collar usage and pointing. Anyone with questions about dog training and upland hunting should come and support the Wilton Fish & Game.

Following the dog training demonstration will be trap shooting for those who are interested. Remember to bring a shotgun, ammo, eye and hearing protection. It’s bird season and sharpening skills always helps to keep the dogs happy while shooting the birds they’ve pointed.

There will be an opportunity to shoot in the Conex Box throughout the day, learn how to make a slingshot and try out archery skills. Lunch will be served around noon.

The Wilton Fish & Game Association will be offering a basic hand gun training for folks ages 21 years and older, under the instruction of Sheriff Scott Nichols. Participating students will undergo a four-hour training at the Wilton Fish & Game location in Wilton. The next available class will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 26. The following class will be on Saturday, Feb. 23.

The benefits of taking this class is each participant will receive a certificate of training from the Sheriff’s Office that they can use as proof of required training in order to obtain a concealed handgun permit. This certificate is recognized by the state because Sheriff Nichols is a certified firearms instructor through the Maine Criminal Justice Academy.

This is an opportunity to learn safe gun practices. Students must bring their own unloaded hand gun in a holster with at least 50 rounds of ammunition. Also remember to bring a holster belt and hearing and eye protection. No magnums are allowed on the indoor run.

There are 10-15 students allowed per class so that there is adequate instruction per student. Participants are required to pre-register and pay a $20 class fee to hold their spot.

To register call Sharon at 207-778-3690 or email Borthwick@myfairpoint.net. Checks are to be made out to The Wilton Fish & Game and mailed to Sharon Borthwick, P.O. Box 314, West Farmington, ME 04992. Call Scott Nichols at 207- 778-2680 with any questions.

Membership is always open with meetings beginning at 6:30 p.m. on the third Sunday of each month.

Peter Wade teaching “How to Start Your Bird Dog Training” class during last year’s Wilton Fish & Game Day.