Inspiring the Next Generation at the 73rd Annual E.E. Wilson’s Pheasant Hunt
EDGEFIELD, S.C. – Late September, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife hosted its 73rd Annual Youth Pheasant Hunt at the E.E. Wilson Wildlife Area, introducing the next generation to the timeless tradition of upland bird hunting. With crisp fall mornings, eager young hunters and the enthusiasm of expertly trained hunting dogs, the event was a resounding success.
Since its inception in 1951, the Youth Pheasant Hunt has been a cornerstone event for ODFW, working in collaboration with sport and conservation organizations to engage youth in hunting and outdoor recreation. This year, more than 150 youth hunters participated, along with 28 newly certified hunters who earned their hunter education safety certification during the event. For many, it marked their first step into the world of hunting.
“Primarily we want kids to have a good experience with hunting and allow for successful hunting with an emphasis on safety and education to recruit young adults and children to become future outdoor enthusiasts,” said Josh Williams, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife E.E. Wilson habitat technician. “In addition to the Youth Pheasant Hunt, we host a youth hunter education certification class. This allows youth the opportunity to receive their hunter education certification. Participants who successfully pass the test are then allowed to directly go on their first hunts as participants in this youth pheasant hunt.”
With funding support from the National Wild Turkey Federation, the event surpassed expectations, with the event purchasing 300+ birds for the hunt, providing ample opportunity for youth to experience success.
The action began before sunrise, as volunteers and ODFW staff arrived at 5:30 a.m. to distribute over 450 rooster pheasants across the wildlife area. Youth hunters arrived bright and early at 7:30 a.m. for a comprehensive safety talk. Soon after, they teamed up with expert, volunteer dog handlers and set off in search of birds — a partnership that ensured even first-time hunters had a great opportunity for success.
To enhance their experience, special priority was given to youth hunters with special needs or unique circumstances. These participants were paired with experienced dog handlers to provide hands-on support and maximize their enjoyment in the field.
After a full morning of hunting, participants returned to the E.E. Wilson Office for a well-earned lunch provided by Oregon Hunters Association volunteers. Hot pizza and grilled hot dogs fueled the young hunters for their afternoon adventures, while additional volunteers replenished the fields with freshly released pheasants.
Once hunting wrapped up, youth participants received help cleaning their harvested birds, ensuring they understood how to prepare the meat for a home-cooked meal. Bags of ice were provided, allowing the day’s harvest to make it safely from field to table, an important connection between the hunt and conservation-minded stewardship.
Over the two hunting days, a grand total of 169 birds were harvested — a testament to the hard work of volunteers, dog handlers and the budding skills of Oregon’s future hunters.
The success of the 73rd Annual Youth Pheasant Hunt would not have been possible without the generosity of partners and donors who provided the funding to purchase additional pheasants. The contributions of the following organizations helped ensure a memorable and action-packed weekend for all: National Wild Turkey Federation, Oregon Hunters Association – Mid-Willamette Valley Chapter, Oregon Hunters Association – Capital Chapter, North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association and Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.
The E.E. Wilson Wildlife Area Youth Pheasant Hunt isn’t just about the harvest; it’s about passing on traditions, teaching safety and fostering an appreciation for wildlife and conservation. Events like this play a critical role in recruiting the next generation of hunters and stewards of the land. As young hunters left the fields with smiles, stories and pheasants in hand, it was clear the hunt had achieved its mission.
About the National Wild Turkey Federation
Since 1973, the National Wild Turkey Federation has invested over half a billion dollars into wildlife conservation and has positively impacted over 23 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. The NWTF has also invested over $10 million into wild turkey research to guide the management of the wild turkey population and to ensure sustainable populations into perpetuity. The organization continues to deliver its mission by working across boundaries on a landscape scale through its Four Shared Values: clean and abundant water, healthy forests and wildlife habitat, resilient communities, and robust recreational opportunities. With the help of its dedicated members, partners and staff, the NWTF continues its work to provide Healthy Habitats. and Healthy Harvests. for future generations.