Youth Waterfowl Hunt Days Set for Fall and Winter

Two Dates Offer Introduction to Maryland Tradition

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources invites young hunters to hone their skills with the help of an experienced adult during two Youth Waterfowl Hunt days: Nov. 4, 2017, and Feb. 10, 2018.

Anyone 16 years of age or younger can hunt coots, ducks, geese and mergansers on private and public lands these two days, when aided by an unarmed adult at least 21 years old.

All junior hunters and their adult mentors must possess Maryland hunting licenses. Youth hunters, including those possessing an apprentice license, must purchase a Maryland Migratory Game Bird Stamp, but do not need to purchase a federal duck stamp if under 16.

“Engaging young people in outdoor activities is one of our highest priorities and I can think of no better way to further that goal than by encouraging them to spend the day in the field while becoming part of Maryland’s time-honored waterfowling tradition,” Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Paul Peditto said. “Whether they are learning to blow a goose call on the Eastern Shore or getting buzzed by wood ducks in a Potomac River swamp, the extraordinary experiences Maryland has to offer will draw these youth afield for the rest of their lives.”

The bag limits for the hunting days are the same as the regular seasons except:

• Two black ducks may be taken;
• Two Canada geese may be taken when hunting within the Atlantic Population Canada Goose Hunting Zone; and
• Five Canada geese may be taken when hunting within the Atlantic Flyway Resident Population Canada Goose Hunting Zone.

Licenses, permits and stamps may be purchased online, by phone at 855-855-3906, at a department service center or at any one of the more than 250 small businesses and retailers statewide. Hunters with questions may contact the department at 410-260-8540.