By Seth Owens

The North Dakota Pheasants Forever Knife River Chapter recently hosted its annual Youth Pheasant Hunt on October 1, an event that not only served as an exciting introduction to hunting but also emphasized the importance of wildlife conservation. This youth-focused hunting event aligned with the specific regulations set for youth hunting seasons, ensuring a safe and educational experience for young hunters.

In preparation for the day’s adventure, the eager young hunters were provided with valuable insights into the conservation efforts undertaken by the Knife River Chapter of Pheasants Forever. This dedicated group of volunteers shared their experiences and detailed the chapter’s involvement in tree and grass plantings in the Mercer and Oliver County areas, highlighting the significance of such projects in maintaining and enhancing wildlife habitats.

As the day began, Kylor Johnston, a North Dakota Game and Fish game warden, stepped in to impart essential knowledge about bird identification and general hunting regulations. Understanding the importance of proper bird identification is crucial for ethical hunting practices, and these young hunters received invaluable guidance to ensure a safe and responsible hunt. Furthermore, gaining insights into hunting regulations sets the stage for future hunters to engage in the sport with a strong sense of responsibility and adherence to the law.

The event wasn’t just about learning and discussions; it also included hands-on activities to hone the participants’ skills. The young hunters were given the opportunity to test their shooting abilities with clay targets. This exercise provided them with a safe and controlled environment to practice their marksmanship, reinforcing the importance of accuracy and precision in hunting.

After the clay target shooting session, it was time for the much-anticipated afternoon hunt for wild birds. The nine youth hunters were joined by mentors and their trusty bird dogs, ensuring a safe and educational experience in the field. This guided expedition allowed the young hunters to apply their newly acquired knowledge in a real world hunting scenario, promoting responsible hunting practices and instilling a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

The afternoon walks through the fields and grasslands offered the youth hunters plentiful opportunities to track and engage with wild birds, providing an authentic and thrilling hunting experience. These moments in the field serve not only as practical lessons in hunting but also as cherished memories that inspire a lifelong passion for the great outdoors and wildlife conservation.

After a successful hunt, it was time for another crucial aspect of the hunting tradition: the proper cleaning of the harvested birds. Teaching the youth hunters how to clean the birds they’ve taken not only ensures the ethical handling of the game but also imparts an essential skill that any hunter should possess. This hands-on lesson emphasized the importance of using the entire animal and minimizing waste, reflecting the ethical and sustainable principles of hunting.

To cap off the day’s adventures, the young hunters and their mentors came together to enjoy a well-deserved and hearty post-hunt meal. This gathering served as an opportunity for camaraderie, storytelling, and the sharing of experiences. It reinforced the sense of community among hunters and instilled the notion that hunting is not just about the pursuit of game but also about the relationships formed and the lessons learned in the process.

Knife River Chapter’s annual Youth Pheasant Hunt is a testament to the organization’s commitment to educating and nurturing the next generation of responsible hunters. By adhering to youth hunting regulations, emphasizing conservation efforts, and providing hands-on experiences, this event not only introduces young hunters to the joys of the sport but also instills values of ethical hunting, wildlife preservation, and community camaraderie. This annual gathering embodies the spirit of hunting as a cherished American tradition and a means of fostering a deep connection to the great outdoors.

Seth Owens is a Dakota Edge Outdoors contributing writer and the Education and Outreach Coordinator for North Dakota Pheasants Forever.

Featured Photo: The Knife River Chapter of Pheasants Forever brought young hunters and mentors together to help pass on the tradition of upland hunting. ND PF Photo.