Youth Duck Hunting in Arkansas | Rules, Tips & Safety Guide

Introducing kids to duck hunting is more than just a fun day outdoors—it’s a chance to pass down hunting traditions, teach responsibility, and build lifelong memories. If you’re a parent, mentor, or guardian planning a youth duck hunt in Arkansas, you’re in one of the best places in the country to get started.

At Bayou Bottoms Guide Service, we welcome the next generation of waterfowlers. Our youth-friendly guided hunts, private land access, and focus on safety make us a top destination for families in Northeast Arkansas. In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

Arkansas youth waterfowl hunting regulations
Best practices for safety and mentorship
Gear recommendations for kids

How to book a youth hunt with confidence

Each year, the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission (AGFC) designates special youth-only waterfowl hunting days. These provide exclusive access to the duck woods for licensed youth hunters, typically ages 6 to 15.

2025 Youth Hunt Dates (Tentative):

First Youth Day: Saturday before the first regular season split (late November)
Second Youth Day: Saturday following the end of the last split (late January)

These dates are set aside so young hunters can enjoy safe, uncrowded access to the field, with no adult competition.

Rules Summary:

Youth must be under 16 years old on the day of the hunt
Youth must be accompanied by a licensed adult (21+)
Adults may not shoot but may assist with gear, calling, and coaching
Youth must have:
Hunting license (if age 16 or older)
Hunter education certification (unless under age 16 and supervised)

For the most up-to-date rules and licensing details, visit the AGFC youth hunting page.

Why Youth Hunts Are So Important

At Bayou Bottoms, we believe in building the future of waterfowling. Youth hunts provide:

A safer, lower-pressure introduction to hunting
Mentorship opportunities between parents and children
A chance to build skills and confidence in the blind
Stronger family bonds and shared experiences outdoors
A way to pass on ethical hunting practices

Hunting isn’t just about harvesting birds—it’s about responsibility, stewardship, and respect. There’s no better time to teach that than on a youth hunt.

How to Prepare for a Youth Duck Hunt

1. Focus on Comfort Over Success

The key to a great first hunt isn’t bagging a limit—it’s making the experience fun and memorable. Prioritize:

Warm clothing and proper layering
Snacks, drinks, and maybe even a thermos of hot chocolate
A positive, patient attitude—especially when birds aren’t flying

2. Practice Gun Safety at Home

Before the hunt, review key firearm safety rules:

Always point the muzzle in a safe direction
Keep the safety on until ready to shoot
Finger off the trigger until the bird is in range
Unload when not actively hunting

You can even practice mounting and swinging an unloaded gun to simulate real shots.

3. Use Youth-Specific Firearms

Full-size shotguns can be too heavy or kick too hard for young shooters. Consider:

20-gauge youth model shotguns with reduced recoil
Shorter stock lengths for easier handling
Lighter loads (e.g., 7/8 oz steel shot)

Ask your local gun shop or guide for recommendations if you’re unsure.

Item	Why It Matters
Youth chest waders	AnneKeep kids warm and dry in flooded fields
Camo face mask or hat	Helps hide movement and avoid flaring birds
Ear protection	Vital in the blind during close shots
Hand warmers	Essential on cold mornings
Lightweight gloves	Protect from wind without affecting trigger control

What to Expect on a Youth Hunt with Bayou Bottoms

We make youth hunts as low-pressure, fun, and educational as possible.

A Typical Youth Hunt Includes:

Early morning meet-up with your guide
Short ride to a pre-scouted blind with high bird activity
Personalized setup based on the youth hunter’s experience level
Easy-to-understand guidance on:
Decoy spread purpose
Duck calling basics
When and how to shoot

Our guides are patient, encouraging, and focused on safety first. Whether your child is ready to shoot or just wants to watch and learn, we tailor the hunt to fit their confidence level.

Tips for Mentors and Parents

1. Keep the Focus on the Experience

A first hunt should feel like an adventure, not a high-pressure contest. Celebrate small wins—like spotting birds, hearing whistles, or seeing decoys work.

2. Let Them Ask Questions

Encourage curiosity. Explain the "why" behind duck behavior, migration, conservation, and fair chase. Youth hunts are full of teachable moments.

3. Take Breaks If Needed

Cold fingers and boredom can ruin the day fast. Be willing to leave the blind, take a walk, or call it early if your youth hunter is losing steam.

4. Praise Effort, Not Just Results

Whether they hit a bird or not, reinforcing that effort, safety, and patience matter more than the number of ducks in the blind.

FAQs About Youth Duck Hunting in Arkansas

Can my child hunt if they’ve never shot before?

Yes. We welcome total beginners and work with families to ensure safety and comfort. We recommend a gun safety and practice session beforehand, even if it’s just with a BB gun.

Is there a minimum age to participate?

There is no minimum age, but most youth hunters are between ages 6–15. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a licensed adult.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes. Youth hunt dates are limited to two special weekends per season, and they fill quickly. Booking early ensures access to our best blinds and scouting locations.