Rhode Island Youth Training & Mentored Hunts
Apply for the 2025 Mentored Youth Turkey Hunt
RIDEM Partners with The Light Foundation for the 2025 Youth Turkey Mentored Hunt
An Unforgettable Outdoor Experience for Young Hunters in Rhode Island
RIDEM is excited to team up with The Light Foundation for the fifth consecutive year to present the 2025 Mentored Youth Turkey Hunt. This action-packed outdoor event, designed for youth ages 12-15, offers a unique opportunity to experience spring turkey hunting in the scenic landscapes of Rhode Island.
Event Details:
Dates: Friday, April 18 – Saturday, April 19, 2025
Location: Addieville East Farm, 200 Pheasant Dr, Mapleville, RI
The weekend kicks off on Friday night with a dinner for selected youth hunters, guides, sponsors, volunteers, and landowners, setting the stage for a weekend full of camaraderie and adventure. On Saturday, the action continues as participants hunt until the afternoon. All youth participants will stay at the cozy Pheasant Ridge Lodge, adding to the experience.
This event is about more than just hunting; it’s a chance to build lasting friendships, share exciting hunting stories, enjoy delicious meals, and immerse yourself in the outdoors. Whether you land a big turkey or not, the memories and stories are what make this experience truly special.
No prior hunting experience? No problem! Our experienced guides will be with you every step of the way, providing expert advice and assistance. We’ll also supply all the gear you’ll need to make the most of your hunt. But remember—it's up to you to be ready and bring your best hunting skills to bag that bird!
How to Apply:
To participate, you must complete an application and submit a writing assignment. Applications are due by March 10, so don’t wait!
Questions?
Contact Brandi Turner with any questions brandi@mattlight72.com or 937-316-3652.
2024 Rhode Island Youth Waterfowl Training & Mentored Hunt
RI DEM's Division of Fish and Wildlife is teaming up with Rhode Island’s chapters of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers and Ducks Unlimited and other partners to offer Rhode Island's annual Youth Waterfowl Training & Mentored Hunt this fall. All youth ages 12 to 15 who have completed a Hunter Education Class are invited to apply. Don't delay - space is limited and applications are due August 25.
This multi-day event includes a Training & Cookout for youth and their parents, in addition to the mentored hunt. The Training & Cookout will occur on Saturday, September 28, then participants will be paired with experienced mentors and partake in a mentored youth waterfowl hunt on Saturday, October 26. A current RI hunting license and Harvest Information Program (HIP) permit are required for participation.
YWH Lottery Protocol 2024
The 2024 Rhode Island Youth Waterfowl Training & Mentored Hunt is made possible through support from The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration program (WSFR). RI DEM works to protect and enhance wildlife habitat in Rhode Island forests and management areas to ensure healthier, more diverse, and abundant wildlife populations. Hunting has a long tradition in Rhode Island, supporting family customs, connecting people with nature, and attracting tourism to the state. Hunters help provide funding for wildlife conservation through their purchase of firearms and ammunition through the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration program (WSFR) and generate more matching federal funds ($3 federal match for every $1 state contributed) through the purchase of their state hunting licenses and permits.