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Youth younger than 16 must obtain a free license to hunt small game this fall, according to

the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Although the license is free, it is subject to a nominal vendor service charge.



The new license requirement, mandated by the Legislature in 2008, affects a number of popular game species including squirrel, rabbit, grouse, pheasant and waterfowl. Youth also must satisfy all requirements related to hunter education and firearms safety.



Small game season opens Saturday, Sept. 18. Free youth licenses are available online at www.mndnr.gov/buyalicense and at the DNR License Center, 500 Lafayette Road in St. Paul.[[In-content Ad]]The new youth small game hunting licenses also are available at DNR license agents across Minnesota. License agents are allowed to charge a 50-cent fee for any free license or permit.



Youth licenses are available via phone at 888-665-4236 but a nominal customer service fee will be charged.

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