Last month, I had the pleasure of speaking to several youth groups through 4H, FFA and Hunter Education classes.

During these meetings, young people were enthusiastic to learn more about hunting. That is why I discussed public land hunting opportunities. This topic means a lot to me personally and professionally, as my children and I have participated in multiple hunts on public land.

I was surprised to learn that most children and adults do not know these opportunities exist. With many families lacking access to deer leases or private hunting land, they are unaware of their options on public land.

Some of the public hunting lands available to hunters in Texas consist of National Forests, National Wildlife Refuges and opportunities provided through Texas Parks and Wildlife Drawn Hunts and the Texas Youth Hunting Program (TYHP). TPWD Drawn Hunts and the TYHP are excellent opportunities for young people to become more knowledgeable and better equipped for a successful hunt. While the details and processes for applying for these hunts are too lengthy for explanation in this column, they can be found on the TPWD and TYHP websites. I highly recommend parents take a moment to check out the website, tyhp.org to learn more about the program and apply.

TYHP is a combined effort between the Texas Wildlife Association and TPWD to provide opportunities for youth ages nine to 17. The program allows youth to participate in hunting activities safely, legally and ethically while learning about the valuable role landowners and hunters play in wildlife conservation. The TYHP hunts provide mentors, guides, meals and sometimes lodging. The program offers over 200 hunts each year on accessible private ranches. The TYHP requires all youth to complete a Hunter Safety Education Course, a youth hunting license and charges a fee to cover food and expenses.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department also publishes a Drawn Hunt Catalog which usually comes out in July. The catalog can be found online and is broken down into categories by species, as well as separate categories for youth and adults. Adults are charged an application fee, for these hunt “lottery style” drawings, while youth are not. The categories also specify the locations available to hunt, as well as the dates of the hunt. If you are selected for a hunt, there is a fee to participate but not for youth.

These programs give the youth in our communities access to hunting opportunities, regardless of experience. Our youth are the key to the future of hunting and wildlife conservation. These programs provide positive experiences and encourage continued involvement for generations to come.

With many families lacking access to deer leases or private hunting land, they are unaware of their options on public land.