Bowhunting 101 course offers expert tips without the cost

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. – Bowhunters of every skill level are invited to the upcoming Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) Discover Hunting event, Bowhunting 101. Experts from the United Bowhunters of Missouri and On Target Christian Archers will host the course, Saturday, May 11, at the Maintz Wildlife Area Archery Range from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“This will be a great day to showcase practical skills all bowhunters need in their repertoire when they head to the woods,” said MDC Outdoor Skills Specialist DeeDee Dockins. She added that this exciting day in the woods will include opportunities to shoot bows and simulate hunting scenarios, all for free.

“This free course is one way the Conservation Department is helping people to enrich their quality of life and discover hunting as a way to discover nature,” Dockins said.

During the interactive workshop, bowhunters 11 years of age and older will test and improve their distance estimation, shot placement, blood trail tracking skills and much more. Demonstrations of various bowhunting equipment, techniques and tree stand use are scheduled. There will also be a 3-D archery shoot in the afternoon.

Participants should bring their hunting bow and field arrows with practice tips. Dockins said bows will be provided if needed. Lunch will also be provided, so pre-registration is required in order to participate. Participants younger than 15 must attend with an adult.

For more information or to register for the course, call the MDC Southeast Regional office at 573-290-5730 or email Deedee.dockins@mdc.mo.gov.