As of August 1, 2025, the youth minimum age to hunt big game is now 10 years old.
This means if an Otipemisiwak Métis Government youth Citizen is 10 years of age or older with MNA-approved harvesting status, they are now allowed to harvest big game in their approved harvesting area(s).
We recommend that Métis Citizens under the age of 10 accompany their parents on hunts to learn the harvesting process. This preparation will help them be ready to hunt big game when they turn 10.
Citizens who are MNA-approved harvesters and are under 10 years old may hunt small game and game birds.
Please note that youth under 16 must be accompanied by a consenting adult who holds either an MNA harvester card or provincial hunting licence.
If you have any additional questions, feel free to email them to harvesting@metis.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
I am not Métis, however my underage child is Métis and has harvesting rights. Can I go out and harvest an animal on their behalf?
No, you cannot. Harvesting rights are specific to the individual and cannot be transferred.
I am not Métis, however my underage child is Métis, and has harvesting rights. Am I allowed to go with them and help them hunt?
Yes, you can accompany your child and assist them during the hunt. You can guide them and teach them, but you cannot do the actual shooting of the animal. You can help them with the hunt as well as with the processing, gutting, and skinning after the harvest.
My child has harvesting rights, but they do not have a PAL (Possession and Acquisition Licence). Can they use my rifle without their own PAL?
Yes, they can use your rifle so long as you have a valid PAL and the youth is “within arms reach” of you.