Montana Youth Deer Hunt Thursday and Friday

Best of luck to all the kiddos who get first try at Montana's deer rifle hunting season this week! Here is who the two-day hunt is open to Thursday and Friday, October 15 and 16.

Legally licensed 12-15-year-olds who have completed hunter education and who are accompanied by a non-hunting adult at least 18 years of age, and properly certified apprentice hunters aged 10-15 who are accompanied by a non-hunting adult mentor who is at least 21 years of age can all be out in the field this week trying to bring home that prize buck or doe. Please remember that this hunt is for deer only. Elk hunting is prohibited and all regulations apply. The Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks website is a great resource if you need a few more details.

As it does every year, the youth deer hunt coincides with the annual two-day break from school due to the Montana Education Association/Montana Federation of Teachers annual conference, being held this year in Billings. The adults get their first try at general big game season for rifle starting October 24.

This week's forecast, at least for western Montana, is calling for continued mostly clear skies, dry and highs in the 60s and 70s, so maybe not the best hunting conditions. But a beautiful time to share with a kid, and that's what it's about. Good luck to everyone!  DB