On April 21 and 22, New York State allows youth hunters to take part in an early spring turkey hunt. For several years we have hosted an essay contest for local youth.

New York State-licensed youth, ages of 12-15 who have a current NYS small game hunting license and turkey tags are allowed to take part in this youth-only weekend.

The rules are fairly simple. Each youth must have a licensed hunter — over the age of 21 for 12 or 13 year olds, and 14 or 15 year longs have be accompanied by an 18-year -old. The senior hunter must have a license to hunt spring turkeys. Check the NYS DEC website for more of the particulars. The senior hunter cannot carry a weapon or attempt to kill a turkey during the youth hunt, but may assist in calling and coaching the youth hunter. As always, make sure you check the laws before you head out on your hunt.

The essay should not be more than 400 words, with the topic this year being, “Why is hunting important.” Each essay should have the hunter’s full name, age, email address and phone number. Essays, which should be emailed to me at crobbins60@gmail.com, should be in sent no later than today.

The winner will receive a full-guided morning spring turkey hunt with me (winner picks either day) during the special youth spring turkey weekend April 21-22. Breakfast, an Oak Ridge Game Call pod call and this hunt will be videoed for an upcoming TV show on Oakridge Outdoors TV.