Special Youth Hunting Seasons Make Fall a Special Time

By Larry S. Moore

Fall is a special time of year in nature. The seasons change bringing a rainbow spectrum of colors to Ohio’s woods. It is my favorite season to be outdoors. Of course the hunting seasons, whether squirrel, dove, deer or turkey, add excitement to the outdoor experience. I think back to those days, now over 18-years ago, when I first took my oldest son hunting with me. The first hunts with him and the hunts that followed with my younger son and daughter are special memories. I am indeed blessed that they continue to join me in the field. I am also blessed that I am able to mentor some new youth whose families do not hunt. I think I’ve learned as much from them as perhaps they have from me.

The special early youth seasons are here. I am excited to be taking these young people hunting again. Who knows, maybe this year they will actually harvest their first deer!

Click 'Read More' for the entire commentary.

The Ohio Division of Wildlife is a national leader in offering special early season youth hunts. It is reflected in the increased sales of youth hunting licenses and the apprentice hunting license that was rolled out last year.

The special early upland youth seasons are open statewide on Oct 21, 22, 27 and 28. These seasons provide the opportunity to take up to 2 young people per adult mentor upland game hunting. The Division of Wildlife will be releasing pheasants at 29 selected wildlife areas across the state. I, along with my Brittany “BB” (Bird Brain) will be accompanying my daughter and her two youth friends for a couple of pheasant hunts in southwestern Ohio at Caesar Creek Wildlife Area. Or perhaps we will take the beagles (Hank, Boots, Sadie and Boogie) for a morning of rabbit pursuit. Either way, the dogs and I will certainly have a good time!

Later in November we will be journeying to the Ross/Hocking County line for the special early season youth deer hunt. Last year both boys saw deer and missed shots. This year they’ve been to the range many times with the .22 rifle that was a Christmas present. I believe their marksmanship abilities will be up to the opportunity this year. During the year, their Father has joined them at the shooting range and gotten re-acquainted with the fun of shooting from his youth. Their younger sister, who does not want to actually shoot a deer, may even go with us just to see the deer in the woods. She can take my camera!

There is no better way to take advantage of the fall hunting seasons than to share the experience, and our heritage, with new hunters.

Check the Division of Wildlife website for more dates and information.