CONNECTICUT WATERFOWL ASSOCIATION 
    ​    Waterfowl Mentoring Program

    MENTOR APPLICATION AND GUIDELINES
    Towns where I often hunt (this information is needed to help pair you up with novice hunters who live near you, or may live near where you hunt):
    I certify that I am at least 18 years old and will possess prior to waterfowl hunting, a Connecticut Small Game license, a HIP permit plus Federal and Connecticut Migratory Bird Conservation Stamps (“Duck Stamps”). I consent to review and approval by the CWA Board of Directors and a background check conducted by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection which verifies that I have not been convicted of any hunting violations, violent crimes or crimes involving youths.
    GUIDELINES FOR MENTORS 
    Mentors are expected to have experience in waterfowl hunting and be proficient in waterfowl identification. They do not have to be experts in every aspect of waterfowl hunting, but they do need to be ethical and responsible hunters. Mentors are expected to provide the equipment necessary (decoys, etcetera) for the hunt. Ideally, mentors would be able to scout an area prior to the hunt to help ensure a positive experience for the novice hunter. Mentors hunting with youths under the age of 18 whom they have not  previously met are required to meet the parents of the youth. Remember: 
    • Safety is the primary concern. Be sure the novice hunter’s muzzle is always pointed in a safe direction. 
    •  When mentoring youths, recognize that their stamina, attention span and physical endurance may be different than yours. A short, quality hunt may be preferable to an all day event. 
    • There should be no pressure on the novice hunter. The hunt should be a good experience whether birds are harvested or not. 
    • Don’t encourage novice hunters to take low probability shots.  
    • All youth hunters (< 18 years of age) must be accompanied by two adults. The adults can  be two Mentors or one Mentor and the youth’s parent (or guardian) or tw​o Mentors. Two Mentors can take two youths