Welcome to the next generation in conservation and pheasant hunting enthusiasts. In efforts to help our younger generation play a larger role in our efforts to conserve and provide habitat for upland game, our chapter provides today's youth with opportunities to learn about what Pheasants Forever is truly about. Montana provides conservation educational materials, safety of firearms and mentor youth hunts for those kids who may not have the same opportunities as most. Take a moment and read about our youth events or find out how you can become a key component of helping future Pheasants Forever Members.
2021 Young Hunter Program Recap
Our program this year started out a little rocky as Covid challenged us to find participants due to online Hunter Safety classes, but we got past that. We had 13 participants graduate this year and 11 go on the hunt, 2 had scheduling conflicts. The hunt was a complete success with 33 pheasants!!!! I believe this was the best group of shooters I have seen so far.
I want to thank all the Volunteers and Sponsors, without them this program would not exist. I also want to thank our board as it would not be possible without the continuing support of our chapter.
The donations to this years program included: ranch preserve for hunting, clay pigeons for practice, shotgun shells (which were almost impossible to come by), food and beverages for shoots and hunt, along with countless hours spend with the kids teaching and mentoring.
Sincerest thanks to all of those that made this possible.
Don Walker
Join our 2021 Young Hunter Program
The Gallatin Valley Pheasants Forever Young Hunter Program is one of the best opportunities for youth in Montana to learn how to properly shoot a shotgun and hunt Pheasants & other game birds. It is spread over 5 Saturdays (1/2 day) and 2 evenings in late July and August. In the past, we have been able to provide a 1/2 day pheasant hunt behind pointers in September for those who successfully graduate and hope to do so in 2021. The program provides instruction on Hunter safety, proper shooting form, wildlife conservation, bird habitat, bird species, bird dog types and how to care for them in the field, where and how to hunt, shotgun & ammo types and uses, proper care of guns, proper interaction with land owners and how to field dress wild birds.
Participants will learn to shoot trap, skeet and sporting clays. All guns, ammo, clays, ear/eye protection and instruction is provided free of charge.
We have room for 15 youth between the ages of 12-15 who have successfully passed Hunter Safety. Applications due by June 15th, 2021, selection begins in May. Participants and one parent or guardian are expected to attend all sessions.
Application can be found here: Young Hunger Program Application
For additional information, please contact:
Don Walker, GVPF Youth Program Chair
gvpfyp@gmail.com
Youth Hunter Safety and Education
While we all like to have fun in the field and chase pheasants for miles, safety is one of the most important aspects. We promote and encourage hunter safety in the field. Through these classes and education we show both youth and adults the proper ways to hold, maneuver and proper gun care. Getting those who are not familiar with a gun, comfortable with handling their firearm so that they can enjoy their hunts successfully. Click below for more information
Annual Youth Mentor Pheasant Hunt
Pheasants Forever mentored pheasant hunts are the ideal way to introduce kids and teens to hunting, as experienced volunteer hunters from Pheasants Forever coach youth on the importance of firearm safety, wildlife habitat and hunting technique.
