HELENA – Young hunters can get a jump start this weekend on the pheasant and waterfowl seasons during the annual Youth Pheasant and Waterfowl Weekend, Sept. 21 and 22.

FWP releases pheasants that have been raised by Montana Correctional Enterprises on state-owned lands with suitable pheasant habitat. This week, in advance of the youth weekend, FWP is releasing nearly 3,000 birds at wildlife management areas (WMAs) and on suitable state land around Montana. The purpose of the pheasant release program is to give youth hunters an opportunity to experience hunting success, encouraging their future participation.

In addition to pheasants, licensed hunters, 15 and under, will be able to hunt ducks, mergansers, geese and coots statewide on these two days.

The two-day youth hunt is open to:

• legally licensed 12- to 15-year-olds who have completed hunter education and who are accompanied by a non-hunting adult at least 18 years of age;

• and properly certified and legally licensed apprentice hunters 10-15 years of age who are accompanied by a non-hunting adult “mentor” at least 21 years of age.

All regulations apply. The Canyon Ferry WMA hours differ from the regulations for youth waterfowl weekend. They will be one-half hour before sunrise to noon.

For more information about the youth weekend, go to fwp.mt.gov/youth-hunt.