The Nevada Youth License Fund was launched by the Nevada Department of wildlife in 2023 and has provided 15,000 licenses to kids between 12 and 17-years old.

A program that gives kids access to free hunting and fishing licenses is currently on hold due to a lack of funding.

It's a Nevada Department of Wildlife program called the Nevada Youth License Fund.

The program is entirely donation-driven. But right now, there aren't enough donations, and the program has been closed since August 2025.

"We're hoping by getting the message out that we can drum up some support and get those donations going again," said NDOW Public Information Officer, Kenzie Margiott. "Donations come from community members. Since we launched the program back in 2023, we have had over $250,000 in donations from the community for generous businesses."

Every dollar donated goes directly into the program, and every $15 donated covers a license for a young hunter or fisher between the ages of 12 and 17-years-old. NDOW hopes to provide 15,000 licenses this season, which makes it easier for kids to enjoy the outdoors and spend less time staring at a screen.

"Kids aged 12 to 17 spent anywhere between 5 and 7 hours on a screen," said Margiott. "We think that by getting them outside, we reduce that and connect them to nature. We want to break down that barrier, show them what it's all about to be in Nevada's outdoors."

Once the program is back up and running, any kid in the age range can take advantage of it, even if they're visiting from out of town.

To learn more about the program or to donate, click here: Nevada Youth License Fund - Nevada Department of Wildlife