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THE TEN COMMANDMENTS OF HUNTING MENTORS

1. Safety First…Treat every firearm as if it is loaded, practice muzzle control, and be absolutely sure of the target. Safety is the primary concern when youth are involved in hunting. Practice shooting skills before the hunt to ease fears.

2. Have Fun…Be positive. Success is the hunt, not the kill. Involve youth in nature-oriented activities, obtaining landowner permission, studying wildlife behavior within their habitat, and other important matters that comprise a good experience.

3. Give All Your Attention to the Youth…Mentoring is about the youth, not about you.

4. Remember, They are Young…Physical stamina and mental maturity is much different in youth than adults. Consider short hunts and talk beforehand about field dressing animals.

5. Patience…Youth don’t always get it right the first time. Practice CPR: Compliment, Positive correction, Review.

6. Listen and Talk…Listen and address any concerns the youth may have before the hunt. Talk to the youth about their connection to nature and respect for habitat and wildlife.

7. Use Appropriate Equipment…Hunting gear is not one size fits all. Use the appropriate size of equipment.

8. No Pressure…Sometimes the best shot is no shot. The only good shot is one the youth is comfortable with.

9. Practice First…This reduces wounding loss and builds confidence in the beginning hunter

10. Use Your Good Judgment…If the youth is not ready for hunting, having the youth observe a hunt is a great option.