6/22/2005

YOUTH PHEASANT HUNT PROGRAM FOR SPORTING CLUBS

Sportsmen’s clubs across the state with an interest in passing on to young people the traditions of hunting and enjoying the great outdoors might want to look at a program designed specifically for clubs and young people by MassWildlife.  The Massachusetts Young Adult Pheasant Hunt Program was designed to be offered by sporting clubs who want to provide young adults ages 12 to 17 with a positive outdoor and hunting experience as well as the opportunity to practice skills learned from the Basic Hunter Education course in a safe, relaxed and friendly environment.  The elements of this program range from shotgun shooting practice and firearms handling at a “dress rehearsal” in the field to a pheasant hunt under the supervision of an experienced, safe adult hunter.

“This program serves two audiences,” said Mark Tisa, MassWildlife Assistant Director. “The first audience is the organized rod and gun club looking for ways to mentor young adult hunters in the skills and ethical standards of hunting. The other audience is the young adult hunter who has already learned some basic hunting skills and knowledge and wants to go further with the experience.”  Tisa commented that this program provides an important “next step” in the education and experience of young, would-be hunters. Tisa has already presented the program to the Massachusetts Sportsmen’s Council and several county club leagues as well as individual sportsmen’s clubs. 

Clubs choosing to participate in the program will receive a hunting safety kit that includes orange vests, eye and ear protection and educational materials on hunting safety.  MassWildlife will also provide participating clubs with pheasants for the hunt.   Most of the activities associated with the Young Adult Pheasant Program will occur in the summer through October. The deadline for clubs to request to participate in the program is July 1.  Clubs that want to find out more may download the Young Adult Pheasant Hunt Planning Guide from the MassWildlife website. Click on the Education button on the agency’s front web page.  For other information, contact Mark Tisa at 508/792-7270 x129.