Shooting

Our Beginning Handgun program includes handgun fundamentals, operation, safety, maintenance, and safe storage. We start with classroom instruction then move to the range for a live-fire session. Firearms, ammunition, and safety equipment are provided however, you may bring your own handgun and ammunition to the live-fire session. Firearms and ammunition are not allowed in the Education Center.

This program is designed as a basic course to provide individuals 9 years of age and up with an opportunity to become familiar with shooting. There will be a short class covering safety, parts of a firearm, and proper techniques of marksmanship. .22 caliber air rifles, ammunition, and safety equipment will be provided for the shooting portion of this program.

This is a make up for the cancelled bowfishing class and will take place at George Winter Park. NEW PARTICIPANTS ARE WELCOME! In this class we will cover all the basics of Bowfishing so you can have a proper understanding of the sport and techniques involved. You will even get to head out on boats to try for yourselves!

We will give a quick demonstration of what we are looking for species-wise, a shooting tutorial-refresh, safety briefing, and then we will be heading out on the water!

All gear will be provided!

Please bring closed toed shoes, bug spray, sunscreen, water, and any snacks you may need while out on the water. Glasses will be a necessity as well. Polarized are the very best option, but regular glasses or sunglasses will be fine.

Life jackets will be required to be worn within 50 feet of the bank of the river AT ALL TIMES! Life jackets will be provided but you may bring your own if you would like.

We will be disembarking around 5:30 pm from the George Winter boat ramp and will be return promptly at 8pm to process fish. We will wrap up at 9pm.

Shooting a .22 rifle is fun and helps teach the fundamentals of firearms safety. In this program, youth will learn about different types of rifles, basics of firearm safety, safe range operations, marksmanship fundamentals, maintenance, and safe storage options. Equipment and ammunition will be provided; you may bring your own 22LR firearm and ammunition to the live-fire portion.

Discover the world of alternative hunting methods in this hands-on introductory course! Learn the fundamentals of archery, slings, and atlatls, three time-tested tools used for hunting and survival across cultures and history. This class covers the mechanics, techniques, and practical applications of each method, providing a unique opportunity to develop your skills and understanding of primitive projectiles.

Perfect for beginners and experienced outdoor enthusiasts alike-come challenge yourself and explore the past through these traditional hunting techniques!

Archery is a fun, lifetime sport that all can enjoy. Learn the basics of archery and how to shoot safely, then practice your newly learned skills under the supervision of staff. Dress for the weather in closed-toe shoes. Meet at the Education pond at Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. All equipment is provided. Registration required. Ages 8+

Join us to discover the joys of shotgun shooting. We will discuss shotgun nomenclature, stance, dominant eye, mounting, moving the shotgun, and much more. We will provide 20-gauge shotguns and ammunition for those who do not have one. If you plan to use your own, bring a minimum of 50 rounds of new ammunition for your firearm. Make sure all firearms are unloaded before arriving at the range. There should be no live ammunition, or uncased firearms inside the classroom. Please leave all firearms in the vehicle until the class is dismissed including all concealed carry handguns and magazines.

Unleash your inner marksman at Runge in this beginner-friendly crossbow experience! After learning the basics of safely loading and shooting a crossbow, we will put those techniques to the test at our outdoor range. Meet at the Runge outdoor pavilion before heading to the outdoor range with staff. Dress for the weather in closed-toed shoes. All equipment is provided. There is no seating at the range, so bring a camp chair if necessary.

This skills session will satisfy part two of Missouri Hunter Education requirements. To obtain hunter education certification you must also attend part one (online, self-study, or a classroom session) and bring along your skills session qualifier certificate or a student manual with the review questions completed. Students 15 and under must also bring a copy of their birth certificate or other proof of age. The final exam will be administered at the end of the skills session. Please arrive a minimum of 15 minutes before the beginning of the class to complete registration; late arrivals will not be admitted so please arrive early. In the event of a cancellation, you will be contacted by email and/or phone. Note: Students who are 16 and over and have completed the all-online Hunter Education course are certified and do not need to attend an in-person skills session. Only participants need to register.

This will be an in-person fishing program that will introduce participants to fishing, as well as some of the baits and methods that can help along your fishing adventures.