HELENA – The Youth Deer Only Hunt for apprentice hunters and licensed hunters between the ages of 12 to 15 will be held on Oct. 18 and 19.
The hunt coincides with the annual two-day teachers’ convention when students are off from school.
Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks want to remind the public that the hunt is for deer only, and elk hunting is prohibited.
Fish and Wildlife officials added the hunt is also a good time for youngsters to learn about hunting through the Apprentice Hunter program.
The program allows an individual 10 years of age or older to obtain a certificate and purchase some general licenses to hunt without completion of hunter education for up to two years.
The apprentice hunter has to be accompanied by a mentor who is 21 years or older with a valid Montana hunting license and follow all hunting regulations.
In 2017, Fish and Wildlife issued 4,660 apprentice hunter certifications.
Agency spokesman Greg Lemon said the program is great for those who are unsure about hunting and help teach good hunting ethics.
“The idea is to get kids some exposure early on to hunting and hunting opportunities in Montana,” said Lemon.
Lemon also praised Montana’shunter education programs across that state which he believes is incredibly valuable for all new hunters.
“We have, in my opinion, one of the top-notch hunter and bow education programs in the entire country,” said Lemon.
Hunter Education programs are volunteer ran throughout the state by experienced hunters in partnership with Fish and Wildlife.
Click here for more information about the Apprentice Hunter Program, Hunter Education and special youth hunting opportunities in Montana.
Story by John Riley, MTN News
