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An eight-year-old girl took down a 10-point buck while out hunting with her dad, as allowed by new state program.
Makenna Lupi was out with her dad, Don, on private land in Washtenaw County when she took it with a shot gun.
Makenna is among the first eight-year-olds in state history to legally shoot a deer. The Hunter Heritage Act of 2011 created the Mentored Youth Hunting Program that eliminated the minimum age requirements for hunting starting this year.
Makenna’s 10-point buck was a nice bag for her first time out. The Lupis were out in the field when they saw the big buck. Don held the gun on his shoulder while Makenna looked through the scope and quietly directed dad about where to aim. Makenna pulled the trigger and took the buck down.
“It was an incredible experience and a great way for us to bond. After teaching her safety and proper techniques in firearm use, it paid off,” said Don, the proud father. “I taught her how to use a scope and the simple safety rules using a .22 caliber rifle.”
The Mentored Youth Hunting program is designed to introduce youth under the age of 10 to hunting and fishing, offering a "package" license for $7.50. Youth hunters under the age of 10 will be able to hunt turkey (spring and fall, any hunt period/location, on private or public land), deer (two tags, any deer) and small game, trap furbearers and fish for all species.
The program is geared toward parents and other adult mentors who want to teach children under the age of 10 how to hunt and fish, letting parents determine if and when their child is ready to hunt.
Every license purchased helps fund wildlife habitat improvement and restoration, wildlife research, programs that provide access for public hunting, hunter safety education and much more, according to the Michigan DNR.
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