OUTDOOR BRIEFS

YOUNG HUNTERS

Hunt, photo contest for youth a success

For Jeremy Drew, president of the Northern Nevada Chapter of Safari Club International, youth sportsmen have a special responsibility as the stewards of our land, wildlife and hunting heritage into the next generation. That's why he initiated the first Youth Upland Game Hunt Photo Contest to promote the inaugural Youth Upland Game Hunt, which was the last weekend in September.

The contest garnered more than 140 entries, half of which were first-time hunters.

A panel of judges from the Nevada Department of Wildlife, Nevada Bighorns Unlimited, the Carson Valley Chukar Foundation, and the Northern Nevada Chapter -- SCI deliberated for hours to name five winners. They are: Mentor Scott Mortimore and youth hunters Jimmy and Chad Mortimore of Sparks; Mentor Mike Bratzler and youth hunter Michael Bratzler of Carson City; Mentor Mike Steckel and youth hunter Cody Steckel of Las Vegas; Mentor Don Lawson and youth hunter Jessica Lawson of Sparks; and Mentor Stacy Trivitt and youth hunter Seth Trivitt of Gardnerville.

Winners received prizes ranging from youth shotguns to Sportsmen's Warehouse gift cards.

GIFTS FOR ENTHUSIASTS

Find holiday gifts at Department of Wildlife

If you're hunting for some holiday gift ideas for the sportsman or wildlife enthusiast on your list, the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) has some suggestions for you.

The following items are available at NDOW offices and may also be requested by mail or phone.

• "A Birding Guide to Reno and Beyond," published by the Lahontan Audubon Society, provides driving maps and detailed directions, tips on what to expect and a description of notable species. This spiral-bound book lays flat on a dashboard. Pick this up free of charge.

• "How to Fish in Nevada," written by expert anglers, provides a beginner with "how-to's" on everything from knot-tying to fishing techniques. Experts and beginners alike will appreciate this book written just for Nevada anglers, and it's free.

• Full color Fishable Waters Maps direct anglers to all of the waters in the state by region (western, southern, and eastern). This tool also notes which species can be found in which water. These maps are free.

• The "Nevada Record Book" compiles information on trophy animals harvested in Nevada along with articles written by hunters in its 460 pages. Updated every five years, the current book lists the trophy big game animals harvested in the state through the 2004-05 hunting season. It is $55 and can be purchased along with a field guide for $85.