Louisiana opens nominations for 2026 Youth Hunter of the Year

The Louisiana Wildlife Federation and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries have opened nominations for the 2026 Louisiana Youth Hunter of the Year awards. The annual contest seeks to recognize one boy and one girl who best represent the joy, thrill, and camaraderie of hunting within the state.

To be eligible, applicants must be Louisiana residents and 15 years old or younger at the time of the hunt. The hunt must occur within the 2026 calendar year. Participants are required to submit an application form, a short story written by the hunter describing the experience, and photos from the hunt. The deadline for submissions is January 31, 2027.

Winners will receive a plaque and a gift card, and will be honored at the Louisiana Wildlife Federation’s 61st Annual Conservation Achievement Awards banquet in Baton Rouge on April 3, 2027. All participating youth will also be entered into a drawing for a $100 gift card.