Everyone wants to start blasting away when the birds are cooperating, but emphasizing the safety aspects of the hunt is critical.
A young hunter must learn to strictly adhere to his shooting zone while also minding the muzzle of the gun when not shooting.
Do what you can to integrate the youngsters in all aspects of the hunt so the focus isn’t solely on the harvest. Allow them to lend a hand in tossing out decoys, making sure to point out the reasoning for setting them out a certain way based on sunrise and wind direction.
And let them participate in the calling: A 6-in-1 whistle is a very easy call for a child to master and can prove effective in putting ducks over the spread.
Plan for success but be prepared for when things don’t go as hoped. Sometimes birds refuse to fully commit, or maybe they fail to show up at all. So find ways to offer entertainment when the action is slow like calling practice, identification of non-game birds and, of course, by bring along plenty of snacks.
Sometimes the young guns have trouble connecting in the clutch, even at seemingly point-blank range. Always offer encouragement when birds come in and none fall.
If the gunners put down a bird or two, be sure to celebrate them just as your buddies would a doubled-banded greenhead.
In terms of shooting, don’t set up the kids to fail. If they’re not already comfortable with the function and proficient handling of the gun, a trip or two to the skeet range before the season can make a world of a difference.
And be sure to focus on efficient shouldering of the gun and proper operation of the safety mechanism.
Document all aspects of the outing with plenty of photos or video. From ATV or boat rides to waiting out the next flight against the sunrise glow, pictures or video can make for treasured keepsakes down the road. Though downing birds is no requirement for a successful hunt, the sprawling grin of a young hunter heaving a loaded strap or even a single bird should always be captured for sharing with others.
