ESCANABA – The Wheeling Sportsmen group that offers hunting opportunities to those severely disabled is asking for a bear hunting license that someone might want to donate for a disabled youth to use this fall.

Ken Bucholtz said it is for a possible hunt in the Gwinn area.

“We’re looking for a bear tag for a young fellow who has disabilities. He’s 15 year old and wants to do his first bear hunt,” Buckholtz said. “A lot of us put in for bear tags and weren’t successful. It’s just the luck of the draw and this year we didn’t have much luck. So we’re looking for a tag in the Gwinn area.”

Hunting is an important part of this youth’s family, Buckholtz said. The teenager bagged his first buck last year.

Despite being disabled, he is able to use the special equipment to go hunting.

“It’s because of our adaptive equipment. We have the sip and puff actuator so he doesn’t have to hold onto the gun. It helps a lot of people with disabilities. that was always the big point, holding the gun steady and pulling on the trigger so you’re not jerking and being off target. So, this adaptive equipment makes it possible for people with real disabilities,” said Buckholtz.

Anyone with a license that they would like to donate can call Buckholtz at 906-553-2268. Buckholtz said the license transfer would have to occur before August 1st.