Educated hunters ensure the future of our sport. One reason we introduce our children to shooting and hunting is to preserve traditions from long ago. Years ago people hunted out of sheer necessity. It was a matter of survival, and an avenue for putting a meal on the table. In this day and age hunting is that and so much more. Hunters contribute so much to our habitats and communities; it only makes sense to introduce your young shooter to the sport. So, how do you ensure your child has fun and becomes the next steward to the planet?
(1) Take them to a Hunters Education course – First thing’s first. Take your child to a hunter safety course. They are offered by most departments of fish and game as well as on-line. Due to the many hunter education programs around the world, hunting is one of the safest forms of outdoor recreation. Hunter education teaches ethics, respect, sportsmanship and wildlife identification. It will also teach the student to become a safe hunter and ultimately a successful one.
“I will do my best to acquire those marksmanship and hunting skills which will assure clean, sportsmanlike kills.” – NRA Hunter’s Code of Ethics
(2) Find the firearm or bow that properly fits – If you want your child to have fun on the hunt, it is important to have an appropriate firearm or bow. You will need to check local hunting regulations to ensure you are using the proper caliber rifle or bow with legal draw weight. There are many rifles and bows available in youth models which will allow your child to be more comfortable and accurate when making a shot.