Things to Know About Montana Youth Only Deer Hunt

Whether they get to hunt or not, lots of kiddos are excited about being out of school Thursday and Friday.

And for some, it will be their first or one of their first deer hunting experiences in Montana, as the state gets ready for its annual Youth Deer-Only Hunt.

The dates of the youth hunt always coincide with Montana's annual two-day teachers' convention, which are no-school days for most public school students. That means this Thursday and Friday, October 19-20, just ahead of Montana's general big game season, which starts Saturday and runs through November 26.

The youth hunt for deer is kind of a two-category system. It's limited to youngsters between the ages of 12 - 15 who have completed hunter education and who are accompanied by a non-hunting adult at least 18 years of age. But also properly certified and legally licensed hunters 10 - 15 years of age, who are accompanied by a non-hunting adult "mentor" at least 21 years of age. It never hurts to check with Montana FWP if you have any questions or concerns.

Remember that this hunt is for deer only and all regulations apply. NO ELK! It may be a little warm Thursday but cooler with some showers Friday, so make sure you're prepared for a couple different weather scenarios. And please have a great time and be safe. We love ya, Montana hunters!

DB