MADISON — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages hunting mentors to introduce the rich tradition of deer hunting to the next generation during Wisconsin’s annual youth deer hunt.

The youth hunt offers hunters 15 years old and younger the chance to learn hunting techniques and develop a connection to nature at a time when deer are less pressured than during the traditional 9-day gun season. Wisconsin residents and nonresidents may participate in the youth hunt.

Youth hunters, with or without hunter education certification, are eligible to hunt while under the supervision of a mentor. For all hunters younger than 11 years old or hunters ages 12-15 who have not completed hunter education, the mentor must be at least 18 years old, a hunter education graduate, hold a current hunting license and remain within arm’s reach of the youth hunter.

For hunters ages 12-15 who have completed hunter education, the mentor must be at least 18 years old but does not need to be a hunter education graduate or a licensed hunter. The mentor must be in both visual and voice contact with the youth hunter.

One mentor may not accompany more than two youths at the same time. Be sure to review the Youth Deer Hunt rules and regulations for full details.

Any time a firearm deer season is taking place, including the youth deer hunt, at least 50% of all hunters’ clothing above the waist must be blaze orange or pink. This requirement applies to archery hunters and small game hunters. Waterfowl hunters are exempt from this rule.

New hunters can celebrate this experience with a first harvest certificate. Follow the instructions on the DNR’s First Harvest Certificate webpage to upload information about the experience.