MDC offers youth waterfowl hunting clinic at Otter Slough

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. – Future waterfowl hunters ages 11 to 15 are invited to join the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) to learn successful waterfowl hunting skills Oct. 5, from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Otter Slough Conservation Area (CA). The clinic will focus on waterfowl identification, habitat, hunting ethics, wing shooting, safety and other essential outdoor skills needed to be a successful waterfowl hunter. This clinic offers participants a great chance to learn about waterfowl hunting and hone their shooting skills with the help of professionally trained staff, according to MDC Wildlife Management Biologist Matt Bowyer.

“We also have what we call a ‘Tasting Extravaganza’ for lunch, so they can find out just how good a harvest can be,” Bowyer said.

The clinic is limited to the first 30 individuals to register by calling (573)290-5730 or emailing Bower at Matthew.Bower@mdc.mo.gov. All participants are to be accompanied by an adult sponsor throughout the clinic. At the conclusion of the clinic, each successful youth will also be provided a free guided waterfowl hunt later in the duck season. Bowyer said a refundable deposit of $25 is required to hold a spot in the clinic. Lunch will also be provided. All youth participants will be entered into a draw for a guided waterfowl hunt on a MDC managed conservation area.

Otter Slough CA is located west of Dexter on Highway 60, then 10 miles south on Route ZZ to County Road 675. Turn west on 675 and travel two miles to the area entrance. The area contains 2,600 acres of wetlands as well as cropland, forest and old fields.

More information about waterfowl hunting can be found online at mdc.mo.gov.