ORIGINAL: retrieverman
Not to be elusive, but it depends on the kid. Both my sons killed their first deer when they were 6, but my youngest son was "ready" at 5. As far as taking kids to the woods just to watch, I believe the sooner the better.
In my opinion, it is best to get kids interested in hunting and outdoor activities before they get hooked on video games and TV.
It really does depend on the child. My son has been going with me since he was 3. He was able to take his first and second deer at age 6.
I teach Hunter's Ed and I can tell you I've seen some who were mid teens and I would not pass them. They were either too agressive for a kill and not wanting to obey the laws or they were just too inexperienced to proceed alone.
I do know this; if WE (all hunters/fishermen/outdoorsmen) don't get these kids involved NOW, we are looking at a grey foggy future.
And with regards to state's who won't allow kids to go on SUPERVISED hunts with adults at earlier ages; they are full of bologne. Who got up on their high horse in that state and said, "Here's the cutoff; all kids are ready at age XX." Please. Every kid is different and every kid is ready at his/her own time.
If you take kids outdoors you must have a lot of patience. Sometimes you go and they want to leave in 5 minutes. You should leave then.
Sometimes they'll stayall day long if you let them.
Never make them stay for your own satisfaction or you'll burn them.