MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) The fifth annual Missouri River Corridor Youth Deer Hunt will take place Dec. 17–20, 2026, at Brown’s Lodge & Hunting Ranch in Gettysburg, SD.
The free event gives new hunters ages 10–15 an opportunity to learn firearm safety, ethical hunting and outdoor skills while potentially harvesting their first deer.
Selected participants will arrive Thursday, Dec. 17, for an introduction to basic firearm safety before hunting during the remaining days of the event.
Youth with little to no hunting experience are encouraged to apply. Each participant must attend with a parent or guardian age 18 or older and will be paired with a knowledgeable guide. Selection is based on a completed application and essay.
Kendyll DeRouchey, president of the Missouri River Corridor Youth Deer Hunt, has been involved with the group since its inception in 2020. DeRouchey said the program welcomes beginners and is looking for “those who want to be outside.”
For anyone who has never hunted or has limited experience, DeRouchey said it is “worth giving a shot,” adding that “it’s the experience of a lifetime.”
Online applications are open and will close Nov. 13. Follow Missouri River Corridor Youth Deer Hunt on Facebook for updates or email mrcyouthhunt@outlook.com for more information.