How to assess a youth's readiness to hunt big game?

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Physical Readiness When evaluating a youth’s physical readiness, consider their age and size in relation to the type of big game they plan to hunt. For example, a 12-year-old may be ready for a mule deer hunt, but may not be physically prepared for an elk hunt. Typically, youth hunters should be at least 13 years old and weigh around 90 pounds to tackle larger game. Assess their strength and endurance by observing them perform tasks such as hiking and carrying a loaded backpack.
Shooting Skills A youth hunter should demonstrate proficiency with a rifle before being allowed to hunt big game. This may involve passing a shooting course or consistently hitting targets at longer ranges. A good starting point is to have them shoot at least 50 rounds from a rifle, with a focus on accuracy at 100 yards. Consider using a rifle with a lower power scope, such as 3-9x, to help them develop their shooting skills.
Mental and Emotional Readiness In addition to physical and shooting skills, it’s essential to assess a youth’s mental and emotional readiness for big game hunting. This involves evaluating their ability to handle stress, respect for the animal and the hunt, and comprehension of hunting ethics and safety guidelines. Engage them in discussions about hunting principles, such as fair chase, and observe how they respond to hunting-related scenarios.