Youth Essay Contest

Topic

What is your best hunting memory and what did you learn from it?

Submission Deadline

Tuesday, March 17, 2026 (11:59 PM)

Other Requirements

  • Applicants must be in one of two age categories: 12 years old and under or 13–17 years old.
  • Essays must be 500 words or less. If your essay exceeds 500 words, your submission will be disqualified.
  • Essays will be scored by a statewide panel of outdoor writers and the Top 5 winners will be awarded complimentary hunts at the Old Dominion One Shot Turkey Hunt on April 18, 2026. (A parent/guardian must accompany the child during the hunt.)
  • No DWR or WFV immediate family or staff, or past winners, are eligible.
  • Winners will be notified no later than March 27, 2026..
  • Essay must have full contact information included.
  • Information in the essays become the property of DWR and WFV and may be used in future publications.

Submit Your Essay Online

Name(Required)
Address(Required)
Age Category(Required)
Date(Required)
Email(Required)
Guardian's Name(Required)
Please provide a phone number where a parent can be reached.
Guardian's Email(Required)
Topic: “What is your best hunting memory and what did you learn from it?”. Your essay must be limited to 500 words or less.
Do you already have a lifetime hunting and/or fishing license?
Would you like to receive a complimentary JAKES membership from NWTF?