Youth can apply to hunt deer in select state parks and other refuge areas during 17 special deer hunts in October and November, according to a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources press release.

“These special hunts give youth and parents or adult mentors a fantastic opportunity to hunt together,” said James Burnham, DNR hunter and angler recruitment, retention and reactivation coordinator. “They can be memorable and positive experiences for all involved.”

Youth can apply now through Aug. 17. Of the 17 special hunts, 15 are firearms hunts for youth ages 12 to 15, and two are archery hunts for youth ages 12 to 17.

Participation in other deer hunting seasons remains an option for youth who take part in the special youth deer hunts, but any deer harvested count against the youth’s season bag limit.

An adult parent, guardian or mentor must accompany the youth at all times while hunting, but only the youth may hunt. Both youth and mentor must attend a mandatory pre-hunt orientation.