To sign up for one of the available youth hunts, please go to the Youth Hunts section.
To participate in the Youth Hunting Program you must:
- Be 12 to 15 years old. (Spring Turkey Program)
- Be 12 to 17 years old. (Fall Goose Hunt Program)
- Complete and submit the Youth Hunting Program Application.
- Complete the NY Hunter Safety Program, regardless of your age, and be able to provide a copy of your completion card. SEE NY DEC WEBSITE FOR DETAILS.
- Be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
- Complete a Youth Hunting Program hunting application that lists your choice of hunts by priority. Youth hunting schedules will be sent to you periodically or check calendar for upcoming Hunts and events.
- Complete the Youth Hunting Program release forms sent to you when you are selected for a youth hunt.
Our Mission:
The Youth Hunting Program was established to increase the number of youth involved in educational, safe, mentored wildlife and hunting activities through the opportunity to participate in the hunting heritage.
Our Goals:
- Preserve the hunting heritage for present and future generations
- Promote the highest ethical standards in hunting
- Give our youth an initial, positive, safe, educational mentored hunting experience
- Teach the basic skills, values, techniques and responsibilities of hunting
- Instill in youth a basic understanding of practical conservation measures
- Encourage wildlife habitat access, enhancement and management
On Our Youth Hunts, You Will:
- Learn how to hunt safely, legally and ethically Hunt
- Develop your marksmanship and firearm skills
- Learn how to track and process game
- Learn the relationship between hunting and conservation
- Appreciate nature first-hand
- Make new friends
- Spend quality time with family, friends and/or other experienced hunters
- Leave with experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.
Volunteers Make It Happen:
Only through the work and resources of volunteers can the Youth Hunting Program provide thousands of safe, educational and memorable hunting experiences. The program is based on volunteer landowners who graciously open their property up to youth hunting, and other volunteers who plan and facilitate the hunts. The Youth Hunting Program provides everything for a successful hunt including hunting opportunities and dedicated people. To help preserve hunting for future generations, today’s youth must be provided quality hunting experiences. There are many volunteer opportunities for you to participate in the Youth Hunting Program.