Youth Pheasant, Waterfowl Weekend Coming Up
Youth hunters can get a head start on pheasant and waterfowl seasons this weekend. The 2022 Youth Pheasant and Waterfowl Weekend is Sept. 24 and 25. Licensed hunters 15 and under will be able to hunt pheasants, ducks, mergansers, geese and coots statewide on these two days.
The two-day youth hunt is open to legally licensed 12- to 15-year-olds who have completed hunter education and who are accompanied by a non-hunting adult at least 18 years of age and properly certified and legally licensed apprentice hunters 10-15 years of age who are accompanied by a non-hunting adult “mentor” at least 21 years of age.
All regulations apply. The Canyon Ferry WMA is an exception — only to the youth waterfowl season shooting hours— they will be one-half hour before sunrise to noon.
Prior to the youth weekend, Fish, Wildlife & Parks will release pheasants at several wildlife management areas around the state. The purpose of the pheasant release program is to give youth hunters an opportunity to experience hunting success, encouraging their future participation.
Pheasants will be released on the following FWP lands in Region 6: Vandalia WMA, Cree Crossing WMA, Sleeping Buffalo WMA, Fresno WMA and Rookery WMA.
FWP will host several kickoff events that will give young hunters the opportunity to meet with mentors and FWP staff. Events already have occurred in Regions 2 and 5.
Region 6 kickoff event will be held Sept. 21, from 5-7:30 p.m. at the Glasgow Trap Club off of Skylark Road.
