MDNR report

The Michigan DNR reminds hunters that this weekend, Sept. 9-10, is the time to don their camo and take a youngster out to a wetland to perfect their waterfowl hunting skills. Youth waterfowl weekend is open to all properly licensed youth aged 16 and younger statewide.

The youth waterfowl season is a great opportunity to pass along the tradition of waterfowl hunting to a new generation, said DNR waterfowl and wetland specialist Barb Avers. Take some time to get out and enjoy Michigan's wetlands this weekend.

Youth 10-16 years of age must have a base license and must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or someone 18 years of age or older designated by the parent or guardian. Youth who are hunting with a base apprentice license must be accompanied by an adult 21 years of age or older who possesses a non-apprentice base license and waterfowl license. Youth under 10 years of age also must also be accompanied by an adult at least 21 years of age, and the youth and adult must meet all provisions of the Mentored Youth Hunting Program. Youth 16 years of age also must possess a waterfowl license and a federal duck stamp.

Ducks, mergansers, geese, coots and moorhens may be harvested; accompanying adults are not permitted to harvest these species during the hunt unless hunting during the early teal season or the September portion of the Canada goose hunting season. The daily limits and species restrictions are the same as those allowed in the regular waterfowl hunting season.

Be sure to review all rules and regulations before heading into the field. Visit mi.gov/dnrdigests to download a copy of the 2017 Waterfowl Digest or find one at your local DNR Customer Service Center or license agent.