The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) has reserved six locations for Mentor/Youth dove hunts on Saturday, September 3, 2005. KDFWR-leased fields in McCracken, Union, Franklin, Madison, Washington and Lincoln counties will host these hunts.

The Mentor/Youth dove hunts require prior registration to participate. The number of hunters on each field is limited to insure a safe and quality hunt. To register for the Mentor/Youth dove hunts, call 1-800-858-1549 between 7 a.m. Aug. 15 to 3:30 p.m., Aug. 19. Unreserved slots at the Mentor/Youth hunt fields will be available on a first come, first served basis.

During these hunts, only one adult and up to two youths age 15 or younger are allowed at each stake. Only two shotguns are permitted at each stake and a maximum of two daily limits (30 birds) may be taken per stake. Mentor hunts are designed to introduce youngsters to the sport of dove hunting. While it is not required that a youngster hunt, adults can not participate without an accompanying youth. Two adults can not accompany one youth.

Shooting hours for these hunts begin at 1 p.m. and close at 7 p.m. local time. All hunting groups must leave the field by 7:30 p.m. local time. Hunter education and license requirements apply for these hunts.

For more information on the Mentor/Youth Dove Hunts, log on to fw.ky.gov and click on the 2005-2006 Dove Hunting Guide or call 1-800-858-1549 to register.