As a private organization, the Hamilton Angling and Hunting Association requires all new applicants to be sponsored by a current member in good standing. There are no exceptions to this requirement.

If you are not a current member of the club, please do not contact us to request a sponsor or inquire about alternative pathways to membership. Inquiry emails of this nature will not receive a response.

One of the great benefits of being a Hamilton Angling and Hunting Association member is the opportunity to sponsor family and friends. This sponsor-driven process helps us maintain a high standard across our membership.

While the exact number of open spots for next year will not be finalized until after fall membership renewals, we anticipate having space available.

If you know someone who would be a great fit for our club, we encourage you to sponsor them.

Sponsoring a Candidate: Your Role & Responsibilities

Please only sponsor individuals you know well. Our system relies on sponsors to take responsibility for their candidates and help integrate them into the club—including walking them through range rules and club procedures.

• Primary Contact: You must commit to being your candidate's main point of contact throughout the onboarding process. Failing to fulfill this role may limit your ability to sponsor prospective members in the future.
• Club Tours: From today until December 15, 2026, you may bring potential candidates to tour the facility.
• Guest Registration: You must register them as a guest and complete the forms located near the clubhouse washrooms. Membership fees for potential candidates are waived; simply write "Potential New Member Candidate" somewhere on the form.

As we prepare for the 2027 membership intake, we have refined our timeline, communication, and notification procedures to ensure clarity and fairness for everyone.

2027 Membership Intake Timeline & Key Steps

• December 15 — Application Window Opens: No applications will be accepted before this date. Sponsoring members must apply via email on behalf of their candidate (direct applications from candidates or formal application forms will not be accepted).
• • How to Submit: Send an email to rludwig@hahaclub.ca including the candidate’s full name, email address, how long you have known them, and your relationship to them.
  • Example Email Format:

Hello, My name is [Your Name]. I would like to sponsor my brother-in-law, [Candidate's Name], whom I have known for 12 years. His email address is [Candidate's Email]. He is an avid hunter, enjoys 3D archery, works as a carpenter, and has a growing family. We have hunted together many times, and I have no reservations about sponsoring him—he has always proven to be safe and responsible.

• December 30 — Application Window Closes: The window closes at the end of the day. No further applications will be accepted for the 2027 season.
• January 2 — Executive Review: A consolidated list of candidates, sponsors, and application details will be sent to the Executive Committee for a one-week review.
• Early January — Candidate Screening: The Membership Director will review Executive feedback and complete initial candidate screenings.
• Mid-January — Final Approval & Selection: The finalized list goes to the Executive Committee for approval. If applicant volume exceeds capacity, the Membership Committee will adjust the list using our established selection process, giving priority to sponsors who have volunteered at the club or at club-sponsored events.
• Post-Approval — Sponsor Notification & Orientation Dates: Sponsors will be notified of their candidate's status and provided instructions for scheduling orientation. Both the sponsor and candidate must attend one of the following in-person sessions at the club:
• • Sunday, January 17, 2027: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
  • Sunday, January 24, 2027: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
  • Wednesday, January 27, 2027: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Profile Setup & Invoicing: Basic website profiles will be created for accepted candidates. Candidates will receive an email with instructions to complete their profile, select their sections, and reserve their mandatory orientation date. Invoices will be issued accordingly, and orientation is officially confirmed once payment is received.
• Completion & Membership Status: Membership cards will be issued upon completion of the orientation session. Candidates will hold probationary member status throughout 2027.

Thank you for your continued support in building and maintaining a strong, safe, and active club community.

Best regards,

Rob Ludwig

Membership Director

Hamilton Angling and Hunting Association

rludwig@hahaclub.ca