In today's STrib Dennis Anderson calls out the DNR to stop YWD (now 2 days).
It's a constant rehash, but since he also calls for the end of early goose over water I think it's on balance.
I know people like the concept of YWD as a day for the kids, and I know people like FF prize those memories. Having participated with my son in the Youth Deer Hunt over MEA, I completely get the appeal.
However, YWD has had zero advantage on recruitment of new hunters, at least as demonstrated by the continuing decline in hunter numbers and stamp sales. Adding a 2nd day won't make for higher participation nor will it increase the number of new hunters..... 2 x 0 is still 0.
The difference I see between YWD and YDH: Waterfolwing is typically done in a pair or small group with the hunters in communication with each other. Deer hunting tends to be, in my experience, more solitary and the shortness of the season puts more pressure on getting the deer ASAP vs duck hunting which can be tailored to weather, multiple trip options, etc.
I would tend to prefer a Teal season vs an all species YWD. But as of yet I haven't figured out how to get paid for having opinions regarding the outdoors, so DA and the DNR staff have me on that one.