in wyoming we could hunt small game and birds at twelve then big game at 14. This worked out pretty well. Also in accordance with skill level, and overall understanding of mother nature, I think there is a certain maturity level that must be present. I know that there are several hunters that are 25 and still probably not mature enough to actually be hunting. but by the same token, I've hunted with 12 year olds that were safe and extremely knowledgeable. So I guess 14 seems to be pretty good.