Kids Get Unique Opportunity To Hunt Montana’s Top Birds
The 2023 Youth Pheasant and Waterfowl Weekend is quickly approaching.
The weekend will feature kickoff events across the state to prepare young hunters for the youth weekend on September 23 and 24.
About The Youth Hunting Weekend
During these events, participants can meet mentors and Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks staff.
Fish Wildlife and Parks will release pheasants raised by Montana Correctional Enterprises on state-owned lands to give youth hunters a chance at success, encouraging their future involvement.
Requirements
Licensed hunters aged 15 and under can also hunt ducks, mergansers, geese, and coots statewide on these two days.
The youth hunt is open to legally licensed 12- to 15-year-olds who've completed hunter education, accompanied by an 18- or older adult.
Additionally, apprentice hunters aged 10-15 with proper certification can join if accompanied by a mentor aged at least 21.
All regulations apply.
The Canyon Ferry Wildlife Management Area hours differ from the regulations for youth waterfowl weekend. They will be one-half hour before sunrise to noon.
The kick-off Events Are Scheduled As Follows:
Region 1: Sept. 19, 5-8 p.m., Flathead Valley Clay Target Club, 1290 Prairie View Road, Kalispell
Region 2: Sept. 19, 4-8 p.m., Region 2 Headquarters, 3201 Spurgin Road, Missoula
Region 3: Sept. 19, 6-7:30 p.m., Montana WILD Education Center, 2668 Broadwater Ave., Helena
Region 4: Sept. 23, 8 a.m. to noon, Lau Shooting Preserve, registration required | Sept. 23, 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Freezout Lake Wildlife Management Area, Fairfield
Region 5: Sept. 9, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., a private shooting preserve near Billings; registration required
Region 6: Sept. 19, 5-7:30 p.m., Havre Trap Club, 101 County Road 802
Region 7: Sept. 16, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Custer Rod & Gun Club, Spotted Eagle Recreation Area, Miles City; registration required.
For more information about these events, including how to register, go to fwp.mt.gov/youth-hunt.