Hunting

Bullfrogs and green frogs are some tasty amphibians! Join us for this nighttime program to learn the ins and outs of how to gig frogs. After learning the basics, we will head to the ponds to do some gigging! Wear shoes and clothes that can get wet and muddy. All equipment will be provided. Ages 16 to 64 will need a fishing permit. Registration required. Ages 10+

Have you took an interest in in shooting archery or bow hunting? In this class we will cover all the fundamentals of purchasing and caring for you bow.

An atlatl is a hunting tool created over 20,000 years ago. Join us as we explore the history of the atlatl and how it is used today. The naturalist will demonstrate the atlatl technique and then offer you the opportunity to give it a try. Participants should be prepared to stand or bring a camp chair. Registration required. Ages 10+

Note: Runge's outdoor range may not be accessible to participants who use a wheelchair or crutches. Please check for availability of an all-terrain wheelchair by contacting the program instructor at least two weeks in advance of the program date.

Do you enjoy hunting or shooting sports? Have you never shot a firearm, but would like to try? Are you a video game fanatic? If the answer is yes to any of those questions, come to the nature center and try your hand at a virtual hunting and shooting experience called Lasershot. This virtual gaming unit allows users to practice their skills by shooting a dummy firearm at a gaming screen. New and experienced hunters and shooters can test their skills, try something new, or try to beat the high score.

Take aim and build confidence at our Teen Rifle Shoot! Participants will learn firearm safety, improve marksmanship skills, and enjoy a safe, supervised morning on the range. Transportation will be provided to and from the nature center, bring water, a hat, and sunscreen. This program is open to those who have had no previous experience shooting a rifle but who are interested in learning more about shooting sports or hunting. All safety equipment and firearms will be provided. Teens will be closely supervised by MDC staff and receive one on one instruction.

The Missouri Department of Conservation has a regulation that requires hunters at certain conservation areas to use non-toxic shotshells while hunting for doves and various other game species. This class is designed to help hunters become more efficient and ethical harvesters of waterfowl and other species while using nontoxic ammunition. Instructors will teach participants how to choose the correct choke, load, and shot size for different game, how to estimate shooting distances, and how to effectively lead their target, followed by a live fire portion to test your new skill. Bring your firearm and chokes, ammunition will be provided.

Learn how to sharpen your hunting knives so you can get the best out of them.

Learn how to sharpen your hunting knives so you can get the best out of them.

This workshop/farm tour will be about creating quality habitat for whitetail deer on a working farm. We will discuss how population dynamics affect not only the quality of success but how managing for quality hunting can co-exist inside of a CWD zone.

Curious about dove hunting but not sure where to begin? This beginner-friendly program will cover the basics from seasons to gear and getting started. Whether you’re interested in filling your freezer or just exploring a new outdoor skill, we’ll help you take the first step.