Youth Pheasant Season Open on Oct. 3

PIERRE, S.D. – The opening day of youth pheasant season is a time when parents and adult mentors can share their love of hunting and the outdoors with the next generation of South Dakota hunters. While it’s an exciting time for the child, it is important for the adult mentors to remember some basic rules when working with youth.

“Adult mentors need to remember that kids aren’t as mature mentally and physically as adults,” said Curt Robertson, hunter safety program specialist for the S.D. Game, Fish & Parks Department. “Plan a youth hunt with safety as a primary concern. Take into account the limitations of young hunters and fit this into your hunting plan.”

To this end, Robertson offers a list of 10 considerations that adult mentors should keep in mind during youth pheasant season.

• Safety first. Treat every firearm as if it’s loaded, practice muzzle control.
• Have fun and be positive. Success is in the hunt, not the kill.
• Give all your attention to the youth. The hunt is about the child, not the adult.
• Remember, they are kids. Take into account physical stamina and mental maturity.
• Patience. Kids make mistakes so address all safety concerns.
• Listen and talk. There are no dumb questions.
• Use appropriate equipment. Hunting gear is not one size fits all.
• No pressure. A child should only take a shot they are comfortable with.
• Practice shooting skills. Build confidence in the child by practicing beforehand.
• Use good judgment. As an adult, you’re responsible for the safety of a child.

Refer to the 2009 Hunting Handbook for specific rules and regulations for the youth pheasant season and mentored hunting or visit www.sdgfp.info/Wildlife/hunting/MentoredHunt for more information.

By helping a young person to hunt this year, you are sharing the hunting heritage of South Dakota and promoting a future for wildlife in the state. Be sure to include safety, hunter ethics and fun in your own hunting heritage.

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