admin_prrod, Author at Prince Rupert Rod & Gun Club

CFSC News

Prince Rupert being a haven for hunting, it seems there is no end to the amount of people wanting their firearms licence. Since I started instructing the CFSC/CRFSC in 2014 I have had over 400 students. The success rate for my students is about 98.5%, and this last class was no exception with everyone successfully completing both the written and practical tests.

This class was a little different than usual as we had 4 students working toward getting their MINOR PAL. One may think youths aged 12 wouldn’t have the foundational interest to understand firearms, but the opposite is true, their keen interest in the subject is very apparent once the class starts and it is quite enjoyable teaching these young people.

Some people having used rifles and shotguns most of their life grumble about having to take the CFSC to acquire new guns and ammunition, but once the course is underway, they soon realize that the goal is personal safety and the safety of their family, friends, and neighbors, this usually softens their demeaner.

Many older students in discussions after the course, comment on how much they “didn’t” know, or how much they “assumed” was right but was not. Back in the day, we usually learned how to handle firearms from our parents which in most cases was all it took to keep us on the right side of the equation, but as laws change we must follow. What was acceptable then, may not necessarily be the right thing now, especially when you consider firearm and ammunition storage.

Student Question

How long after I send in my application form, will it take to get my licence?

A common question from students is “how long after I send in my application form, will it take to get my licence”?

Unfortunately, there is not a clear answer. In most circumstances you may wait up to 60 days, but it seems at the moment, there is a backlog of applications and I have heard of 5 months and more. One of the issues with long wait times may be related to an improperly filled application form, or character references not available to answer questions.

Learn more about CFSC/CRFSC

Butze Rapids Trail

Aside from fishing and boating in general in the Prince Rupert area, there are also some interesting and picturesque walks and hikes that can be enjoyed. One that I particularly enjoy while I am in the area each summer is the Butze Rapids Trail. This is classified as an easy walk along a looped and well-maintained trail.

Personally, I like to walk the trail and enjoy all the diverse scenery. There are of course the tidal rapids created by the tide changes (with a nice viewpoint), ocean views, forest, and a section of muskeg. The hike itself is not too difficult with about a 138 Meter elevation gain throughout. Some people, in much better physical conditioning than myself, run the trail and I will see them pass me a couple of times as I meander along. There are enough short climbs to get me breathing, but not so much as to make me wish I had not done the trip.

After 4 or 5 days out on the water taking people fishing, it is nice to just get out and enjoy a walk. I have taken a lot of pictures along this trail and I share a few below for your enjoyment.