All youth participating in the Youth Deer Hunt must have a Youth Deer Hunt Permit. These permits are free.
In addition:
Learn more about hunting regulations and licensing requirements for minors.
Visit MassFishHunt to get your Youth Deer Permit online starting August 19, 2025.
You can get a Youth Deer Permit at one of the MassWildlife offices or from a license vendor starting August 19, 2025.
NOTE: Youth aged 15–17 must have a minor hunting license before they can purchase a Youth Deer Hunt Permit. (If the youth hunter is 12–14 years old, no hunting license is required.)
The Youth Deer permit is valid on the Youth Deer Hunt Day and may also be used during any open deer season.
Only one hunting implement is allowed. Shotgun, muzzleloader, or bow and arrow may be used. If the minor is accompanied (12-14 year old hunters must be accompanied by a licensed adult), the adult may not use a hunting implement.
The bag limit for the Youth Deer Permit is one deer of either sex. The Youth Deer Permit allows either:
*The either-sex youth permit is in addition to regular antlered and Antlerless Deer Permits that can be used during the rest of the season.
All youth hunters and any accompanying adults must wear at least 500 square inches of blaze orange on their chest, back, and head.
Young hunters must fill out the tag from the Youth Deer Permit and attach it to the deer before moving it. Do not use any other deer tags. You must report deer harvest within 48 hours.
