Youth Pheasant and Waterfowl Kick-Off Event in Plentywood

A free kick-off event for youth interested in pheasant and waterfowl hunting will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 18, from 5:00-7:30 p.m. at the Plentywood Trap Club. The event is open to youth aged 10 and older, with parents or mentors who plan to hunt alongside them expected to attend.

The event serves as a preparation for the upcoming youth pheasant and waterfowl weekend, scheduled for Sept. 21-22. This special hunting weekend is open to properly licensed youth aged 10-15.

During the kick-off, youth and their adult partners can participate in an "open house" format, where they’ll learn about the youth bird-hunting weekend, receive hunting advice, and ask questions. Additionally, the Plentywood Trap Club will offer trap shooting sessions, with youth rotating through a round of trap. Shotgun shells (12 and 20 gauge) and the trap itself will be provided free of charge.

The event is organized and supported by donations and volunteers from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP), the Plentywood Trap Club, and other local organizations.

Participants will also have the chance to win giveaways and take home various prizes. Organizers note that it’s not mandatory to arrive exactly at 5 p.m., as they understand some youth may have after-school activities. Attendees are encouraged to join when they can.

FWP staff and other volunteers will be available to provide information on several topics, including:

• Access programs like Block Management
• Upland gamebird hunting opportunities
• Wildlife Management Areas and Fishing Access Sites for hunting
• Waterfowl and upland gamebird identification guides
• Hunting regulations

Safety is a top priority, and qualified instructors will supervise the trap shooting. Hearing protection will be provided and must be worn by all participants. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own shotgun, but all firearms must be unloaded and in safe, operating condition before being brought to the event. Organizers will inspect all firearms to ensure they are field-ready. FWP will also provide 20-gauge pump shotguns for participants who do not bring their own.

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In the event of inclement weather, shotgun shooting may be canceled, but other activities will proceed as planned. Updates on the event will be posted on the Region 6 FWP Facebook page.

The Plentywood Trap Club is located at the Sheridan County Fairgrounds. From Hwy 5 on the southeast end of Plentywood, turn south near the Sheridan County Museum and follow the road past the rodeo grounds to the trap club.

For more information, contact Marc Kloker at FWP at 406-942-2974 (cell), 406-228-3704 (office), or via email at mkloker@mt.gov.