Including Kids During Hunting Season

For many families around Utah, hunting season has become a family event; with adults and kids either joining in on the action or waiting apprehensively for those hunting to return. For families to enjoy this season fully however, it is important to know the laws regarding age restrictions on hunting as well as preparatory classes or supervision that may be required.

Fishing

According to the Utah division of Wildlife Resources, there is a type of hunting opportunity that is open for even for the youngest of residents – fishing! Fishing is not only lawful for children 11 years old or younger who are accompanied by a licensed adult, it is free. 12 and 13 year olds are required to be licensed, however their fee is only $5; far less than for those 14 and older.

Small game hunting

For those youth who wish to hunt away from the water and hunt animals such as rabbits, small game licenses are available for supervised youth 13 and younger for only $11. Small game hunting is a beneficial for preparing those kids that plan on hunting big game later on.

Big game hunting

As of 2008, kids as young as 12 years old are permitted to hunt big game as well as cougar and bear. This new age requirement reduced the age allowed to hunt big game down from the previous 14 years and older law. While these reduced age requirements were popular throughout the state for families that enjoy hunting season together, they came with strict laws regarding supervision and education.

Rules for hunting season

Before a kid grabs their rifle and heads out to shoot rabbits or elk, there are rules that they must be aware of:

• Adult supervision. Bringing the parents along isn’t always fun, but for hunters 15 and younger – it is the law.

• Hunting class. For anyone born after December 31st, 1965, DWR requires them to take a hunter education course approved by the DWR before they can obtain a license permitting them to hunt. A hunting course is not required for fishing.

• License. Before any hunting can happen (including fishing for those 12 and older), youth must obtain a hunting license as well as permits as required.

Failure for youth to follow the rules regarding hunting may result in a class B misdemeanor. If your child is already facing charges for hunting without a license or other crimes, contact a juvenile defense attorney.