Youth Hunt

Our annual youth hunt event introduces young hunters to the excitement and responsibility of waterfowl hunting in a safe, guided environment. It's held every year during the Central Zone Youth Waterfowl Season.

 

It combines education, skills-building, and hands-on experience to help youth develop safe firearm practices, outdoor ethics, and an understanding of conservation through real-world application. The hunt is typically attended by youth in the Cedar Rapids/Iowa City area (and surrounding eastern Iowa locations) and focuses on creating positive first experiences with duck hunting.

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The event kicks off on a Saturday afternoon with a session at the Hawkeye Trap Range (located north of North Liberty off Highway 965). Youth receive instruction in firearm safety fundamentals and get practical practice with trap shooting to build marksmanship skills and confidence around guns. This helps participants learn proper handling, safety protocols, and basic shooting techniques under close supervision from experienced HCCRA members.

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On the following Sunday morning, participants head out for a guided duck hunting experience. Young hunters join experienced adult mentors and handlers with trained dogs to participate in actual field hunts in suitable local wetlands or managed areas.

 

They learn about:

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• Setup

• Calling

• Decoying

• Shot selection

• Retrieving with dogs

• Bird identification

• Ethical harvest practices

• Safety

• Respect for wildlife

• The importance of conservation