The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency will host its annual youth squirrel hunt on Saturday, Dec. 16 at the Chuck Swan WMA in Union County. The free hunt is for children ages 6 to 16.
Hunters ages 13-16 must possess appropriate hunting licenses and permits and youth ages 10 thru 16 must have successfully completed a Hunter Education Class or possess an Apprentice Hunting License (Type 012).
Young hunters will be placed in groups with a guide, a dog, and a dog handler. For safety, all guns used during the hunt will be provided by TWRA and will be carried by the guides. As the opportunities arise, youth hunters will take turns shooting with a shotgun or rimfire rifle. A blaze orange hat is also recommended for each hunter.
All registered hunters will meet at 7 a.m. at the Chuck Swan WMA office. TWRA will provide pastries and coffee for breakfast as well as a Dutch oven lunch following the hunt.
Only 30 slots are available and the deadline to register is Wednesday, Dec. 6. To register a youth hunter or to volunteer as a guide with squirrel dogs, call TWRA I&E Coordinator Matt Cameron at 423-522-2473 or Matthew.Cameron@tn.gov. Chuck Swan WMA Manager Dustin McCubbins may be reached at 865-300-4625.