PHOTO COURTESY OF ODFW
Registration is now open for ODFW’s free pheasant hunts for youth (age 17 and under) happening around the state in September.
A free pheasant hunt for youth will take place at the Irrigon Wildlife Area on Sept. 26-27.
The Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife and partners stock pheasants at these special hunts that give youth a head start on regular pheasant seasons, which don’t begin until October. Quail and dove may also be hunted. Volunteers often bring their trained hunting dogs to hunt with participants. Some events also begin with a shotgun skills clinic, so participants can practice clay target shooting before hunting.
The hunt is only open to youth who have passed hunter education. An adult 21 years of age or older must accompany the youth to supervise but may not hunt.
“If your child made it through hunter education but is still new to the sport, this is a great way to get them started,” says James Reed, ODFW hunter education coordinator. “These events happen before regular pheasant seasons open and are a great opportunity for kids to get out hunting.”
ODFW stresses safety during the hunts. Both hunter and supervisor must wear a hunter orange hat, eye protection and a hunter orange vest—equipment provided by ODFW at the clinics to anyone who doesn’t have it. Hunters also need to check in and out of the hunt.
The hunts are free, though youth hunters need a valid hunting license ($14.50) and Harvest Information Program validation (free) to hunt. Youth hunters age 14-17 also need an upland game bird validation ($8.50). The can be purchased online. Licenses and tags will not be sold at the events.
While most areas have a hunt both Saturday and Sunday, youth hunters may only sign up for one hunt. They are welcome to hunt stand by on the other day.
