Thirteen youngsters from southwestern Idaho slipped on hunter orange and picked up a gun for the first youth pheasant hunt at C.J. Strike Wildlife Management Area. Specially designated youth pheasant hunts give inexperienced young hunters an opportunity to learn about upland hunting in a safe, controlled environment.
In early October, these youngsters, dogs and volunteers from Idaho Fish and Game, Idaho Power and Quail Forever gathered at C. J. Strike WMA to go hunting. But before they headed out into the field, they had a few things to learn.
- Hunting safety in the field was covered by Randy Phelan from Snake River Quail Forever.
- Shooting techniques and safe gun handling was taught by Idaho Fish and Game officer Brian Perkes.
Finally, youngsters were paired up with an adult mentor and a dog to pursue pheasants at the Idaho Power Turner Ranch and C.J. Strike WMA.
“It was quite an event,” said Josh White, Idaho Fish and Game wildlife biologist. “Getting to see kids enjoy their first hunt behind a pointing or flushing bird. In total, six birds were harvested on that day.”
While not all kids got the opportunity to harvest a bird, they all saw bird dogs find and flush some wily roosters. This is part of the equation; hunting is not always going to be successful. It’s about spending quality time in the field with family and friends and doing so in a safe environment.
Look for the 2nd annual C.J. Strike Youth Pheasant Hunt again next October. The Idaho Department of Fish & Game, Idaho Power Company, and Snake River Quail Forever plan to continue this youth hunt to help introduce youngsters into the hunting community.