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Show 14-year-olds to hunt big game Division of Wildlife Resources offices statewide have been barraged with questions about a new law lowering the big game hunting age from 16 to 14. Under the new law, youngsters who turn 14 during a calendar year (by Dec. 31) may legally purchase big game or combination licenses for that year, allowing them to hunt for any big game animal in the state with he appropriate permit. A big game hunting license costs $15 and a combination license (hunting and fishing) costs $35. The bill was widely supported by sportsmen's groups and Utah hunter education instructors. Supporters say it's a good idea for younger hunters to learn about big game hunting from parents or adults for two years before they're allowed to hunt on their own. According Ac-cording to the new law, big game hunters under the age of 16 must be in visual and verbal contact with a parent or supervising adult at all times while hunting. Many other states allow 14-year-olds to hunt big game. Statistics on hunting accidents in those states indicate that firearm safety is not a problem with this age group. Since the youngsters must complete a mandatory five-week hunter education course before purchasing a license, they're often more safety conscious than older hunters. Hunter education courses are scheduled statewide. Traditionally in Utah, big game hunting has been a family affair, an opportunity for families to experience ex-perience the excitement and adventure ad-venture of a big game hunt together. Division of Wildlife Resources hope the new law will strengthen that tradition. Tne bill was widely supported by sportsmen's groups and Utah hunter education instructors. Supporters say it's a good idea for younger hunters to learn about big game hunting from parents or adults for two years before they're allowed to hunt on their own. According Ac-cording to the new law, big game hunters under the age of 16 must be in visual and verbal contact with a parent or supervising adult at all times while hunting. Many other states allow 14-year-olds to hunt big game. Statistics on hunting accidents in those states indicate that firearm safety is not a problem with this age group. Since the youngsters must complete a mandatory five-week hunter education course before purchasing a license, they're often more safety conscious than older hunters |
