The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) will host a mentored youth deer hunt in Jefferson County, designed to provide deer hunting opportunities for youth with little or no hunting experience. The three-day event begins with an educational session on Friday, October 9, followed by hunting on Saturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11.
Youth hunters will be paired one-on-one with experienced mentors and will hunt local properties for an opportunity to harvest an antlerless deer. The program includes a required firearm safety session, range practice, a mentor meet-and-greet, and hands-on game processing opportunities.
WHAT: Jefferson County Mentored Youth Deer Hunt
COST: Free Program for Youth Ages 12 to 15
EDUCATIONAL DAY: Friday, October 9, 2026, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
HUNTING DAYS: Saturday, October 10, and Sunday, October 11, from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., as arranged with mentors
Participants must be between the ages of 12 and 15 and possess a valid New York State junior hunting license. Participants are responsible for their own transportation and must provide their own firearm and ammunition appropriate for deer hunting.
Participants should bring clothing and boots appropriate for autumn conditions in Northern New York and dress in layers. Camouflage is not required; earth toned clothing is recommended. Participants must wear a fluorescent orange or pink hat, vest, or jacket while hunting. Some hunting clothing will be available to borrow, and participants do not need to purchase clothing specifically for the event.
Space is limited, and submission of an application does not guarantee selection. Priority will be given to early applicants and youth with the least hunting experience.
Applications must be submitted by Monday, October 5, 2026.
For more information or to apply, visit the HuntFishNY Mentored Youth Deer Hunt page, Event ID 660. Questions may be directed to Ashley Evans by email [email protected], or by phone (315) 785-2534.
Governor Kathy Hochul is encouraging all New Yorkers to get offline and get outside! The “Get Offline, Get Outside” campaign encourages New York’s kids and families to put down their phones and computers, take a break from social media, enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings, and put their mental and physical health first. The campaign builds on the Governor's efforts to promote healthy living among young people and families, including signing first-in-the-nation legislation to protect kids from addictive social media feeds and shield their personal data from online platforms.
