Arkabutla Lake to host youth waterfowl hunts in January and February 2024

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The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Vicksburg District has announced two youth waterfowl hunting events at Arkabutla Lake scheduled for Jan. 28 and Feb. 4, 2024.

Organized in partnership with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, the hunts will take place in a designated management area near Arkabutla Lake Dam. A draw will determine the 12 lucky participants, with six slots allocated for each hunting event. Prospective participants must send in their applications by 3:00 p.m. on Jan. 5th, 2024.

Open to youngsters aged 10 to 15, the hunting activities require each participant to be under the supervision of an adult aged 21 or older. Both the adult and youth are expected to adhere to the stipulated State and Federal waterfowl hunting regulations suitable for their age group.

The USACE advises that the accompanying adult be familiar with the waterfowl hunting rules. It’s also recommended that participants bring essential hunting gear, including chest waders, duck calls, and a shotgun along with ammunition.

Applications can be sourced from the Arkabutla Lake Field Office, or interested parties can download them from the Arkabutla Lake webpage here. Completed applications should be sent to or dropped off at the Arkabutla Lake Field Office, located at 3905 Arkabutla Dam Rd. Coldwater, MS 38618. Alternatively, participants can e-mail their applications to Ranger Rob Hoff. For more details or queries regarding the event or application process, one can reach out at (662) 292-1992.

Applicants who are chosen will receive further details, including the specific timings for their assigned hunting date.

The USACE emphasizes the importance of accurate and complete applications, as any discrepancies or false data will lead to immediate rejection. Strict adherence to all waterfowl regulations will be expected and enforced during the hunt.

These youth-centric waterfowl hunting events aim to foster a learning environment, allowing veteran hunters to impart essential hunting skills and ethics to the next generation.