One of the joys of being a parent is the ability to pass on your knowledge, hobbies, and passions to your children. When I was young, my dad couldn’t wait to teach me everything he knew about hunting. I still remember the day that he took me to a hunting store in Ottawa to buy my very first orange vest.
Just like I was at that age, an increasing number of young people today are thinking about trying their hand at hunting for the very first time. Both hunting with firearms and archery in Ottawa are becoming increasingly popular, and hunting stores in Ottawa are often asked about the best way to introduce youth to the sport.
Of course, hunting and archery in Ottawa can be very dangerous if you do not abide by the rules, and new hunters should learn the necessary rules, regulations and safety precautions before hunting for the first time. There are many courses offered on subjects ranging from firearm safety to archery in Ottawa, but the most effective way to learn is often by hunting with a seasoned expert.
In both Ontario and Québec, it’s possible for first timers to do just that! Both provinces offer initiatives aimed at introducing young people to hunting by allowing them to learn from an experienced mentor. Young individuals are able to safely develop their hunting skills under the watchful eye of a qualified, experienced hunter.
The rules do differ from province to province, so before you run excitedly to your nearest hunting store in Ottawa, here is a quick overview of the programs and regulations in both surrounding provinces:
Ontario
The province of Ontario offers the Ontario Hunter Apprenticeship Safety Program to new hunters over the age of 12. To participate in the program, hunters must pass the Ontario Hunter Education course, and if they wish to hunt with a gun, they must also pass the Canadian Firearms safety course. Registration for the program is free, but limited to 3 years.
While hunting, the apprentice must be under the supervision of a licensed mentor over the age of 18, and carry their permit with them at all times. The apprentice and the hunter share a single firearm and bag limit.
Québec
In Québec, there is a similar program called the Youth Hunting Initiation Program. New hunters over the age of 12 years old who have never had a hunting license can obtain a permit without first obtaining a hunter’s certificate. The initiation permit is valid for one year only.
While hunting, the apprentice must be accompanied by an adult who is at least 25 years of age, and who has the appropriate permit. The new hunter will of course be subject to the same rules and obligations as a regular hunter, and must carry their permit at all times while hunting.
If you know a young adult who is interested in firearm hunting or archery in Ottawa, consider becoming their mentor! As such, you can teach them about hunting regulations and safety precautions, while passing along your love for this wonderful sport.
If you require additional information, don’t hesitate to ask a staff member at a hunting store in Ottawa!
