Youth Holiday Hunting Slated

Youth hunters will have the opportunity to fine tune their skills over the next couple of weekends, as Army officials plan to open Pohakuloa Training Area to those between the ages of 10 and 15.

On Dec. 26-27 and Jan. 2-3, the Ahi unit, training areas 9, 12-16, and 18, will open. Bow hunting will take place in the Humu’ula and Menehune units, training areas 1-6, on both weekends.

All those interested in hunting are required to check in at the Army check-in station across from Mauna Kea State Park.

In order to participate, hunters are required to have a valid State of Hawai’i hunting license and be in the presence of an adult who also has a valid state hunting license.

During the two weekends, adults can only participate in a mentor capacity and are not allowed to harvest animals in the hunt.

“There hasn’t been much focus on youth hunting in the past, but that’s something we want to change,” said John Polhemus, manager of the United State Army Garrison-Pohakuloa’s public hunting programs. “Our goal is to offer more opportunities for youths to apply safe hunting techniques and experience hunting in a low-pressure, uncrowded environment.”

Polhemus said the efforts are part of an initiative to enhance the local hunting program.

Bow hunting reservations are currently being accepted. Only 15 youth bow hunters will be allowed on each day. Reservations are not necessary for bird hunting.
To make a reservation, call (808) 315-1545 with name, hunting license number for youth and adult, and a contact number.

Adult hunting will resume on the Jan. 9-10 weekend, pending availability, according to Army officials.