Youth Firearm Deer Hunt Set for November 21

The NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife’s popular Take a Kid Hunting Program is designed to provide a quality hunting experience for properly licensed youth hunters. These days, first added to the Game Code by the Fish and Game Council for the 2001-2002 season, increase a young hunter's opportunity for harvesting game in a setting which encourages responsible and safe hunting practices in a more relaxed setting. The program is coordinated by the division's Hunter Education Unit. The primary component of the program is a series of "youth hunts" - special days, often outside regular hunting seasons on days provided in the Game Code. Hunts often utilize the expertise of "mentors" to further enhance the hunting experience. There are typically five (5) youth hunting events: turkey, pheasant, upland birds, deer and waterfowl as described below. All hunts require the hunter possess a valid Youth License and be under the direct supervision of a properly licensed, non-hunting adult 21 years of age or older.

The mentored Youth Pheasant Hunt provides a great experience for the next generation of hunters. Click to enlarge

Turkey - One day held prior to the opening of the regular spring season.

Pheasant - One day held prior to the opening of the regular season. This hunt is designed to increase a young hunter's opportunity for harvesting a pheasant with the help of experienced volunteer hunting mentors with trained bird dogs. Youth hunters can participate in a guided hunt on one of seven wildlife management areas (WMAs) throughout the state that are stocked with pheasants. Pre-registration is required for guided hunts. Youth hunters between the ages of 10 and 15 who do not pre-register for a guided hunt can hunt during special hours on any one of nine stocked WMAs. Support is provided by the State Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs.

Upland Bird - One day held prior to the opening of the regular season on licensed semi-wild preserves.