Hunt

Photo © Chris Hull

Mentored, Youth and Apprentice

  • For mentored hunting, the mentee is defined as the youth hunting and the mentor is defined as the adult mentoring the youth hunter.
  • Mentored hunting is available for both residents and nonresidents.
  • Hunter safety is required for individuals ages 12-15 who participate in youth hunting.  There is no hunter safety requirement for mentees for mentored hunting, however, the mentor must have completed a hunter safety course. Replace your HuntSAFE or BowHunter ID card or email your full name, mailing address and date of birth for assistance.
  • Mentored youth are limited to one license per season and are not eligible to obtain/apply for additional licenses in other respective firearm or archery seasons.
  • Please refer to the Hunting Handbook for all regulations.  

10 Commandments of Mentored Hunting

  • Safety First- Treat every firearm as if it is loaded, practice muzzle control, and be absolutely sure of the target. Safety is the primary concern when youth are involved in hunting. Practice shooting skills before the hunt to ease fears.   
  • Have Fun- Be Positive. Success is the hunt, not the kill. Involve youth in nature-oriented activities, obtaining landowner permission, studying wildlife behavior within their habitat, and other important matters that comprise a good experience.
  • Give All Your Attention to the Youth- Mentoring is about the youth, not about you.
  • Remember, They are Young- Physical stamina and mental maturity is much different in youth than adults. Consider short hunts and talk beforehand about field dressing animals.
  • Patience- Youth don't always get it right the first time. Practice CPR: Compliment, Positive Correction, Review.
  • Listen and Talk- Listen and address any concerns the youth may have before the hunt. Talk to the youth about their connection to nature and respect for habitat and wildlife.
  • Use Appropriate Equipment- Hunting gear is not one size fits all. Use the appropriate size of equipment.
  • No Pressure- Sometimes the best shot is no shot. The only good shot is one the youth is comfortable with.
  • Practice First- This reduces wounding loss and builds confidence in the beginning hunter.
  • Use Good Judgement- If the youth is not ready for hunting, having the youth observe a hunt is a great option. 

External Resources for Mentors

Mentored Big Game
Youth Deer
Apprentice Deer
Mentored Small Game | Youth Small Game
Mentored Waterfowl | Youth Waterfowl