Oregon offers exciting opportunities for young hunters to learn and experience the sport safely and responsibly. The state’s Mentored Youth Hunter Program allows children as young as 9 to participate in hunting activities under close adult supervision. This program provides a foundation for developing safe, ethical, and responsible hunting practices from an early age.

Youth aged 12 to 17 can obtain a Youth License, which includes hunting, fishing, and shellfish privileges for a nominal fee. This comprehensive license encourages young people to explore various outdoor activities and develop a connection with nature. For those interested in upland birds and waterfowl, youth 13 and under must complete HIP questions to receive the necessary validation on their license.

Oregon emphasizes hunter education for youth. All new hunters 17 and younger must complete a Hunter Education course before hunting independently. This requirement ensures that young hunters understand safety protocols, wildlife conservation, and ethical hunting practices. By focusing on education and mentorship, Oregon aims to cultivate a new generation of responsible hunters who appreciate and protect the state’s natural resources.

Understanding Oregon Hunting Regulations

Oregon’s hunting regulations aim to ensure sustainable wildlife management and safe, ethical hunting practices. These rules cover licensing, seasons, bag limits, and equipment restrictions for various game species.

Licensing Requirements

All hunters in Oregon must obtain appropriate licenses and tags before hunting. Youth ages 12-17 need a Youth License, which includes angling, hunting, and shellfish privileges. The Mentored Youth Hunter Program allows kids 9-15 to hunt without completing hunter education, under close adult supervision.

Hunters 18 and older require an adult hunting license. Additional tags or validations are needed for specific game animals. Licenses can be purchased online through the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife website or at authorized vendors statewide.

Non-resident hunters pay higher fees for licenses and tags. Some hunts have special application processes or draw systems for limited tags.

Game Bird Regulations

Oregon offers diverse upland and migratory game bird hunting opportunities. Seasons vary by species and region. Common upland birds include pheasant, quail, and grouse. Waterfowl seasons cover ducks, geese, and other migratory birds.

Hunters must follow federal and state regulations for migratory birds, including using non-toxic shot. Daily bag limits and possession limits apply to all game birds. Some areas have special restrictions or permit requirements.

Game bird validation is required in addition to a hunting license. A free HIP (Harvest Information Program) validation is also needed for migratory bird hunting.

Big Game and Small Game Regulations

Big game hunting in Oregon includes elk, deer, bear, and cougar. Each species has specific seasons, weapon restrictions, and tag requirements. Controlled hunt drawings allocate tags for limited-entry areas.

Small game like rabbits and squirrels have more liberal seasons but still require a hunting license. Predator hunting for coyotes and other species has fewer restrictions but follows general hunting regulations.

Bag limits vary by species and management unit. Hunters must properly tag and report harvested animals. Some areas have antler point restrictions or other special rules to manage populations.

Youth-Only Hunts and Regulations

Oregon offers youth-only hunting opportunities to encourage participation and mentorship. These hunts typically have more relaxed regulations and occur outside standard seasons.

Youth-only hunts exist for deer, elk, upland birds, and waterfowl. Age limits and eligibility requirements vary by hunt. Some youth hunts allow kids to harvest any legal animal, while others have specific restrictions.

The Mentored Youth Hunter Program lets kids 9-15 hunt without completing hunter education. Adult mentors must closely supervise youth hunters and follow strict safety guidelines. Only one weapon is allowed between the mentor and youth.

Youth hunters must still obtain appropriate licenses and tags. Some youth hunts require advance applications or have limited spots available.

Hunter Education and Safety

Oregon requires hunters under 18 to complete hunter education before hunting in the state. This vital training covers firearm safety, hunting ethics, and wildlife conservation.

Hunter Education Class Structure

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife offers flexible options for completing hunter education. Students can choose between online courses and traditional classroom instruction. Online courses allow self-paced learning from home. Classroom courses provide face-to-face interaction with instructors.

Both options cover essential topics like firearm safety, hunting laws, and wildlife identification. The curriculum also includes ethical hunting practices and outdoor survival skills.

Field Day and Certification

After completing the coursework, students attend a mandatory field day. This hands-on session reinforces key concepts learned in class.

During the field day, participants practice safe firearm handling and shooting techniques. They also demonstrate their understanding of hunting regulations and ethics.

Upon successful completion, students receive their Hunter Education Certificate. This certificate is required for youth hunters and serves as proof of training for out-of-state hunting licenses.

Safely Handling Firearms and Equipment

Proper firearm handling is a core focus of hunter education. Students learn the “Ten Commandments of Firearm Safety” and practice safe carrying positions.

Training covers how to safely load, unload, and transport firearms. Students also learn about proper ammunition selection and storage.

The course emphasizes the importance of protective gear like blaze orange clothing and hearing protection. Participants practice field carries and crossing obstacles safely with firearms.

Youth Hunter Program Details

Oregon offers several programs to introduce young people to hunting safely and responsibly. These initiatives provide mentorship, training, and special opportunities for youth hunters.

Program Eligibility and Enrollment

The Mentored Youth Hunter Program allows youth ages 9-15 to hunt without first completing hunter education. Participants must be supervised one-on-one by a licensed adult hunter at least 21 years old. To enroll, youth and their mentors register online for free through ODFW’s website.

Youth ages 12-17 can purchase a Youth License for $10, which includes hunting, fishing, and shellfish privileges. This license requires answering HIP questions for upland bird and waterfowl hunting.

Mentored Youth Preference Point System

Mentored youth can accumulate preference points for controlled hunt drawings without purchasing hunting licenses or applying for tags. This gives them a head start in draw odds when they’re ready to hunt independently.

Points are awarded automatically each year a youth is registered in the program. Mentored youth can also apply for point saver hunts to gain additional points.

Benefits of Participating in Youth Programs

Youth hunting programs provide hands-on field experience in a controlled setting. Participants learn firearm safety, hunting ethics, and conservation principles from experienced mentors.

These initiatives help preserve Oregon’s hunting heritage by recruiting new hunters. Youth gain outdoor skills and an appreciation for wildlife management.

Special youth hunts offer increased harvest opportunities on select dates and locations. Some areas are open only to youth hunters during these events.

Tag Acquisition and Preference Points

Obtaining hunting tags and accumulating preference points are crucial aspects of Oregon’s youth hunting system. These elements work together to provide fair access to controlled hunts and increase opportunities for young hunters.

Understanding Tags and Their Importance

Tags are essential permits required for hunting specific game animals in Oregon. They regulate harvest numbers and ensure sustainable wildlife populations. For youth hunters, tags open doors to valuable hunting experiences.

Oregon offers various tag types, including general season and controlled hunt tags. General season tags are widely available, while controlled hunt tags are limited and distributed through a draw system.

Youth-only hunts provide exclusive opportunities for young hunters to pursue game with less competition. These hunts often have a higher success rate and serve as excellent learning experiences.

Navigating Through Preference Points Systems

Preference points boost a hunter’s chances of drawing a controlled hunt tag. Youth accumulate one point per year for each hunt series they apply for but don’t draw. Points can be purchased from December 1 to May 15 and July 1 to November 30.

The “First Time Hunt” program guarantees youth (ages 12-17) a controlled buck, antlerless deer, or elk tag before turning 18. To qualify, they must apply for the regular controlled hunt draw and not be selected.

Youth lose eligibility for a First Time tag in a hunt series once they successfully draw any tag in that series, except for leftover tags.

Applying for Controlled Hunts

The application process for controlled hunts is straightforward. Youth must submit their applications by May 15 each year. They can apply for multiple hunt series, increasing their chances of securing a tag.

75% of tags are allocated based on preference points, while 25% are issued randomly. This system balances fairness and opportunity for all applicants.

Youth participating in the Mentored Youth Hunting Program receive one preference point annually upon registration. This helps them build points for future hunts.

Leftover tags, if available after the main draw, offer additional opportunities for youth hunters to secure a controlled hunt tag.

Clothing and Equipment Guidelines

Proper attire and gear are essential for youth hunters in Oregon. Safety and comfort are paramount when preparing for a hunting expedition.

Mandatory Safety Gear

Hunter orange clothing is a critical safety requirement for youth hunters in Oregon. A blaze orange hat or other head covering is mandatory during certain big game seasons. Hunters must wear a blaze orange exterior garment or hat that is visible in all directions when hunting game mammals during centerfire or muzzleloader seasons. The garment must contain at least 200 square inches of hunter orange material above the waist.

Sports Pac license holders must also comply with these regulations. Shooting glasses are strongly recommended to protect eyes from debris and potential ricochets.

Recommendations for Additional Gear

Appropriate footwear is crucial for youth hunters. Waterproof boots with good ankle support are ideal for navigating various terrains. Layered clothing allows for temperature regulation throughout the day. A moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, and water-resistant outer layer are recommended.

A sturdy backpack to carry essentials like water, snacks, and first aid supplies is important. Binoculars help spot game from a distance. A compass or GPS device aids in navigation. Hand warmers and extra socks can enhance comfort during cold weather hunts.

Special Licensing and Validations

Youth hunters in Oregon require specific licenses and validations to participate in various hunting activities. These requirements ensure proper wildlife management and conservation efforts.

Harvest Information Program Validation

The Harvest Information Program (HIP) validation is mandatory for all waterfowl hunters in Oregon, including youth. It helps collect data on migratory bird harvests. Youth hunters aged 12-17 must obtain a HIP validation when purchasing their license. The validation is free but must be renewed annually. Hunters provide information about their previous year’s hunting activities, which aids in wildlife management decisions.

Federal and State Waterfowl Stamps

Youth hunters aged 16-17 must purchase a federal duck stamp to hunt waterfowl in Oregon. This stamp supports wetland conservation efforts nationwide. It costs $25 and can be purchased at post offices or online.

State waterfowl validations are required for youth hunters aged 12-17. The validation costs $4 and is valid from July 1 to June 30. It funds state waterfowl conservation programs.

Upland Game Bird Validation and Tags

Youth hunters aged 12-17 need an upland game bird validation to hunt pheasants, quail, and other upland birds in Oregon. The validation costs $4 and is valid from July 1 to June 30. It supports habitat improvement and bird stocking programs.

For youth under 12, a free Youth Game Bird Hunting License is available. This license allows young hunters to participate in upland game bird and waterfowl hunting without additional validations.

Youth hunters pursuing pheasants in Western Oregon fee pheasant hunt areas must purchase a Youth Western Oregon Fee Pheasant Permit. This permit costs $10 and provides access to stocked pheasant hunting areas.

Hunting Opportunities and Seasonal Information

Oregon offers diverse youth hunting programs across different game species and seasons. These opportunities provide young hunters with chances to learn and practice safe, ethical hunting skills under adult supervision.

Youth-Only and General Season Hunts

Youth-only hunts give young hunters exclusive access to certain areas and game. The Mentored Youth Hunter Program allows children ages 9-15 to hunt without passing hunter education, under close adult supervision. Youth can participate in special waterfowl hunts, often held before the general season opens. These hunts typically have reduced bag limits and restricted hunting areas.

For general seasons, youth hunters can participate alongside adults. A Combination License or Youth Sports Pac purchased by a 17-year-old remains valid for the entire calendar year, even if they turn 18. However, youth hunt tags cannot be used once a hunter turns 18.

Hunting Small and Upland Game Birds

Youth hunters have several options for pursuing small game and upland birds in Oregon. Special youth hunts for chukar are sometimes offered, like the one in the Lower Klamath Hills Regulated Hunt Area. These events often have specific dates and bag limits.

Quail hunting is popular among young hunters due to the birds’ abundance and the exciting nature of the hunt. Youth can also participate in general upland bird seasons, which typically run from fall through winter.

Youth waterfowl hunts provide opportunities to pursue ducks and geese. These hunts often occur on designated wildlife areas and may require advance registration.

Big Game Hunting Opportunities

Oregon offers youth-specific big game hunting opportunities. These include:

• Youth elk hunts
• Youth deer hunts
• Youth pronghorn hunts

Many of these hunts occur before or during general seasons, giving young hunters a chance at less pressured animals. Some areas may have controlled hunt draws specifically for youth tags.

Youth with unfilled tags from special hunts can often continue hunting during the general season. This extends their opportunity to harvest an animal and gain valuable field experience.

Additional Hunting and Fishing Activities

Oregon offers diverse outdoor recreational opportunities beyond traditional hunting. Youth can engage in crabbing, clamming, fishing, and wildlife viewing activities throughout the state’s varied ecosystems.

Crabbing and Clamming Regulations

Oregon’s coast provides excellent crabbing and clamming opportunities. Youth ages 12-17 must have a Youth License to participate in these activities. This license includes shellfish harvesting privileges. Popular crabbing spots include Tillamook Bay, Netarts Bay, and Coos Bay.

Clamming is permitted year-round on most Oregon beaches. Razor clams are found primarily on north coast beaches, while bay clams are abundant in estuaries. Daily catch limits apply:

• Razor clams: First 15 dug
• Bay clams: 20 per day in aggregate, including:
  • Cockles: 20
  • Gaper clams: 12
  • Butter clams: 20

Participants should check tide tables and consult the ODFW Recreation Report for current conditions and closures.

Freshwater and Saltwater Fishing Options

Oregon’s diverse waterways offer excellent fishing opportunities for youth. A Youth License covers both freshwater and saltwater fishing for ages 12-17. Younger children do not need a license.

Freshwater options include:

• Trout fishing in mountain lakes and streams
• Bass fishing in warm water reservoirs
• Steelhead and salmon in coastal rivers

Saltwater fishing is available along the coast, with opportunities for:

• Surfperch from beaches
• Rockfish and lingcod from jetties and boats
• Halibut during seasonal openings

Many locations offer youth-only fishing events throughout the year. The ODFW website provides updates on fish stocking schedules and fishing conditions.

Recreational Wildlife Activities Beyond Hunting

Youth can explore Oregon’s diverse wildlife through non-consumptive activities. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound across the state’s varied habitats.

Popular activities include:

• Birdwatching at wildlife refuges like Malheur and Baskett Slough
• Elk viewing at Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area
• Tide pool exploration along the coast
• Butterfly watching in meadows and forests

The ODFW Wildlife Viewing Map highlights prime locations for observing various species. Many areas offer interpretive programs and guided walks suitable for youth.

Game bird hunting provides another option for young hunters. Youth can participate in special pheasant hunts and waterfowl hunting seasons with proper licensing and supervision.

ODFW Resources and Support

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) offers a wealth of resources and support for youth hunters in Oregon. These include educational materials, local offices, and online tools to help young hunters get started and succeed in their outdoor pursuits.

Accessing Educational Materials and Support

ODFW provides comprehensive educational materials for youth hunters. The Hunter Education Program offers online courses and field days to teach safety, ethics, and responsible hunting practices. Youth under 18 must complete this course before hunting in Oregon. The program covers essential topics like firearm handling, wildlife conservation, and hunting laws.

For those aged 9-15, the Mentored Youth Hunter Program allows hunting without prior certification, under close adult supervision. This hands-on approach gives young hunters practical field experience and training. ODFW also offers specialized youth hunting opportunities and workshops throughout the year.

Finding Local ODFW Offices

ODFW maintains offices across Oregon to serve local communities. These offices are valuable resources for youth hunters and their families. Staff can provide region-specific information on:

• Hunting seasons and regulations
• License and tag requirements
• Local wildlife populations
• Conservation efforts

To locate the nearest office, visit ODFW’s website or call their main information line. Many offices host youth-focused events and can connect families with local mentoring programs or hunting clubs.

Utilizing Online Resources and Tools

ODFW’s website is a hub of information for youth hunters. Key online resources include:

• Recreation Report: Updated weekly with hunting conditions and opportunities
• Interactive maps of hunting areas
• License purchasing system
• Mobile apps for reporting harvests and accessing regulations

The site also features youth-specific pages with tailored content and guides. Social media channels provide timely updates on youth hunting events, workshops, and changes to regulations.

ODFW’s online resources aim to make hunting accessible and enjoyable for Oregon’s youth. From planning trips to understanding wildlife management, these tools support young hunters throughout their outdoor adventures.