Louisiana encourages young hunters by letting them get a head start
By: Morgan Thomas
Updated: October 10, 2012
It's about bringing the family together, while enjoying the great outdoors in Louisiana.
The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is letting new hunters get in some practice before deer season officially opens..
"Not as much pressure on them... They get a much better chance to get a shot at a deer," said Todd Buffington, LDWF Biologist.
Buffington explains why they let children under sixteen start their season early.
"Deer are moving at daylight a lot more," said Buffington.
It's also the perfect opportunity to explain how to hunt the safe way.
"Don't point at anything you don't intend to shoot... Keep your finger off the trigger until you're ready to shoot... Be sure of your target. Make sure it's a deer you're shooting at," said Buffington.
Buffington enjoys hunting with his own children. However, he would never give them the type of gun some parents choose for their children.
"A lot of people buy their kids a lever action 30/30 or one of these single barrel shot guns with exposed hammer. This is absolutely worst type of gun to give a child," said Buffington.
He illustrated why they're so dangerous.
"It has no safety on it anywhere... In order to put it in safe condition I have to lower the hammer down," said Buffington.
This could prove difficult for younger shooters.
"If it slips, gun is going to fire," said Buffington.
One of the most important things your family needs to take on a hunting trip this season - is your hunters' orange. Wearing this could save your life. It's also the law.
"You're not going to be mistaken for deer by another hunter if you're wearing an orange vest," said Buffington.
When your child finally brings down a deer --- you'll have to tag them. They can pick-up their tags by showing their social security card to licensed vendor.
"Before you move that deer, before you drag it, load it on the four-wheeler, put it in the truck, anything, You have to fill out a tag, you attach it to the deer," said Buffington.
Early Youth Hunting Week starts Saturday, October 13th and runs through Friday, October 19th.
Click here for a link to the Louisiana Wildlife & Fisheries' 2012-2013 hunting regulations.
