HARRISBURG — Junior hunters, between the ages of 12 and 16, who have successfully completed a hunter-trapper education course are eligible to participate in the Game Commission Junior pheasant hunt program between Oct. 7-14, 2023.

While junior hunters are not required to purchase a license, participants must obtain a free pheasant permit to hunt pheasants during these events. Junior hunters must abide by the same bag limits and regulations as the regular pheasant season.

For more information, visit https://www.pgc.pa.gov.

Instructional

junior pheasant hunt events

These are special hunting opportunities for junior hunters between 12 and 16 years of age, who have successfully completed a basic Hunter-Trapper Education course. Each year, sponsoring sportsmen’s organizations from around the state host these instructional events. Hunting licenses are not required; participants must register and wear the necessary amount of fluorescent orange and be accompanied by an adult.

If your sportsmen’s organization is interested in hosting an event, contact mentoredhunting@pa.gov for more information and download the 2023 Junior Pheasant Hunt Planning Guide (PDF) at https://www.pgc.pa.gov to help you to plan your hunting event.

Junior pheasant hunt season –

statewide, Oct. 7-14, 2023

The Game Commission provides 15,000 birds for the youth pheasant hunt season each year. Junior hunters do not need a hunting license but must have successfully completed a Hunter-Trapper Education course. A free Junior Pheasant Hunting Permit (available online and at license vendors) is required to participate in the pheasant season for all junior hunters.