Pursuing Small Game Perfect For Young Hunters

LEWISTON - Although the majority of Idaho's general deer and elk rifle seasons are not quite open, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) reminds hunters that several small game season are underway and all make a perfect opportunity to introduce youth to the hunting tradition. "Many seasoned hunters enjoy sitting for hours for big game - they have the patience for it," said IDFG Hunter Education Coordinator, Kent Henderson. "But young hunters prefer some action, so small game hunting is a great choice for introducing them to hunting because it offers increased chances to see and harvest game." Pursuing small game allows hunters a chance to sharpen their shooting skills and the increased number of small game available, such as quail, rabbits, greatly improves a young hunter's chance of pursuing and harvesting game. Youth ages 10 and 11 can hunt using a Youth Small Game License that costs $6.50. It is valid for upland game birds, turkeys, migratory game birds, cottontail rabbits, unprotected species and animals when accompanied by an adult with a valid Idaho hunting license. The Hunter Education Graduate License is free for first-year license purchasers age 10-17 who have graduated an approved hunter education course. It can be used for the same species as the small game license except turkey. The hunting season for California quail began September 20 and runs through December 31. See the rules for area descriptions. Limits are 10 daily and 20 in possession after the first day. The season and limits on bobwhite quail are the same, but there are few bobwhites in Idaho. Chukar and gray (Hungarian) partridge seasons also opened on September 20 and run through January 15, 2004, statewide. Limits are eight daily and 16 in possession after the first day. Other small game hunting seasons are currently underway, including forest grouse, sage grouse, snowshoe hare and cottontail rabbit. For more information on small game hunting opportunities, review the various season and rules booklets available at license vendors and IDFG offices, or visit the IDFG website at www2.state.id.us/fishgame.