Youth Waterfowl Hunting Day Feb. 10

Chance for Young Hunters to Hone Skills with Adult Mentor

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is offering a Youth Waterfowl Hunt Day statewide Feb. 10.

Hunters 16 years of age or younger may hunt coots, ducks, geese and mergansers on both private and public land this day when aided by an unarmed adult, at least 21 years old.

“Spending a winter day on a frozen tidal marsh or in a goose blind gives these young hunters a chance to see a side of Maryland that few get to witness” Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Paul Peditto said.

“When combined with the companionship and guidance of a trusted mentor, the beauty and variety of the wildlife inhabiting Maryland’s wetlands during winter sets a scene that will keep them coming back time and time again.”

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 years of age.

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 service center or at any one of the more than 250 retailers statewide.