Regulation changes will affect youth hunters

Wyoming Game & Fish is reminding hunters of a regulation change this season that affects youth deer license-holders. Due to low populations, a full-price, youth deer license does not permit the harvest of mule deer does or fawns during an antlered deer season.

This year, youth hunters possessing a full-price, youth deer license may take an antlered mule deer or any white-tailed deer (including does and fawns) during an antlered deer season in accordance with the species limitation of their license in the hunt area(s) where their license is valid.

In hunt areas where antler point restrictions are in effect, youth hunters possessing a full-price, deer license are not subject to the point restriction and can take any buck deer. 

As recently explained by Game Warden Nate Holst, “Normally our youth are allowed to harvest doe deer on public land. This will be the first year in a while that that is not allowed.”

“Our youth is going to be held to the same restrictions an adult tag holder would be. If they had a general deer license, hunting the Black Hills they would have to harvest an antlered deer instead of antlerless,” he adds.

The rules have changed this year in reaction to a lower-than-usual deer population.

“Mule deer — especially in southwest Wyoming — were impacted after the harsh winter. In response to the winter impacts, Game and Fish removed mule deer doe and fawn seasons in many areas of the state,” said Doug Brimeyer, Game and Fish deputy chief of wildlife.

“Female mule deer drive population recovery. Allowing youth hunters to harvest any buck, including in those areas with antler point restrictions, will not affect mule deer population recovery and will allow a bit more opportunity for those young, aspiring hunters.”

Hunters with questions about the youth deer regulation change or other hunting-related questions can call 307-777-4600 or any Game and Fish regional office.