Hunting And Outdoor Sports
Youth Pheasant Hunting Season Kicks Off Saturday, Oct. 4
Idaho’s Youth Pheasant Hunt Starts This Fall with Opportunities for Young Hunters
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Idaho, USA
The annual youth pheasant hunting season in Idaho is set to open on Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025, running through Oct. 10. This special hunt is an excellent opportunity for young hunters, ages 17 and under, to enjoy the outdoors and learn about hunting while following the states wildlife management practices. The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) has planned a robust season for youth hunters, stocking nearly 29,000 pheasants across 24 locations statewide, with 2 to 5 areas designated for stocking in each region. For those taking part, hunting begins daily at 10 a.m. in most regions, although in the Clearwater Region, the hunt starts at 8 a.m. The focus is on introducing youth hunters to the sport, with nearly all locations being stocked for the youth hunt, ensuring plenty of opportunities for success. Young hunters participating in the youth pheasant season do not need an Upland Game Bird Permit, but they must wear at least 36 square inches of visible hunter orange above the waist, which can be easily accomplished with a hunter orange hat. This safety measure is a critical part of ensuring that all participants remain visible and safe while out in the field. Idahos Hunting Passport Program also allows those who have never had a hunting license and havent taken hunter education to join the youth hunt. This program is an excellent way for newcomers to get involved with minimal barriers to entry, helping nurture the next generation of hunters. For those who are new to the sport or seasoned hunters mentoring their younger counterparts, the youth pheasant hunt offers an exciting and educational experience. Beyond just the hunt, this event provides an opportunity for kids to connect with nature, learn about wildlife conservation, and understand the responsibilities associated with hunting. The Idaho Fish and Game department also ensures that all participants have access to information about where pheasants will be stocked and how to prepare for the hunt. The youth season runs before the regular pheasant hunting season, giving kids a special opportunity to hunt without the added pressure of adult hunters. Regular pheasant hunting for all ages will begin on Oct. 11 and run through Oct. 18 in some regions, with a five-day delay for nonresidents. This delay does not apply during the youth hunt, making it a great way for young hunters to get a jumpstart on the season. A map of stocked areas and additional hunting regulations can be found in the 2024-25 Idaho Upland Game, Turkey, and Furbearer rules booklet, which is available online. For parents and guardians, this is an ideal opportunity to introduce their children to the world of hunting. The youth pheasant hunt serves not only as an entry point for new hunters but as a means of building respect for the environment and the ethical practice of hunting. Parents can help teach their children about safety, the importance of conservation, and how to properly handle a firearm. This experience fosters a deeper connection to nature and encourages responsibility in the outdoors.