Young Hunters Harvest more than 6,000 Deer during Youth-Gun Season

COLUMBUS, OH - Young hunters checked 6,645 white-tailed deer during Ohio's two-day youth gun season, Nov. 23-24, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Young hunters were challenged by below-average temperatures and windy conditions during the two-day season.

"Congratulations to all the young hunters who participated and enjoyed Ohio's youth deer hunting weekend," said ODNR Director James Zehringer. "I want to thank the parents and adults who took the time to make the weekend a memorable one for the next generation of hunters."

The Ohio counties that reported the most checked deer during the 2013 youth gun season: Coshocton (248), Tuscarawas (220), Muskingum (212), Holmes (196), Knox (189), Licking (189), Guernsey (183), Belmont (165), Harrison (165) and Carroll (161).

Youth hunters could pursue deer with a legal shotgun, muzzleloader or handgun and were required to be accompanied by a non-hunting adult during the two-day season. The youth deer-gun season is one of four special youth-only hunting seasons designed to offer a safe and early hunting experience for young hunters. Youth hunting seasons are also set aside for small game, wild turkey and waterfowl.

Youth hunters can commemorate their hunt with a First Harvest certificate, available at www.wildohio.com. Participants can upload a photo and type in their information to personalize the certificate. Hunters can also share photos by clicking on the Photo Gallery tab online.

Ohio offers many more opportunities for young hunters to pursue deer. The deer-gun season is Monday, Dec. 2, through Sunday, Dec. 8. Deer-muzzleloader season is Saturday, Jan. 4, through Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2014. Deer-archery season is open now through Sunday, Feb. 2, 2014. Find complete details in the 2013-2014 Ohio Hunting and Trapping Regulations or online at www.wildohio.com.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at www.ohiodnr.gov.