MDC to hold mentored hunt April 29-30 at Forest 44 for first-time turkey hunters

HIGH RIDGE, Mo. — Adults new to the sport of turkey hunting will have a chance to see what all the excitement is about this spring when the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) offers a mentored turkey hunt for those age 18 and over. The hunt takes place at Forest 44 Conservation Area in High Ridge. Participants are required to be age 18 or over and must have never purchased a Missouri turkey hunting permit.

Five hunters will be chosen for the hunt by random drawing. Those wishing a chance to participate should go online at https://goo.gl/nU3Je8 and apply for hunt #9. The application deadline is Feb. 28. Participating in the hunt is free of charge.

Winning hunters will each be partnered with an experienced MDC volunteer or staff mentor who will guide them during the hunt. Hunters must attend a pre-hunt orientation Friday, March 29, from 5:30-8 p.m. at the Jay Henges Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center, 1100 Antire Road off I-44 exit 269.

There participants will have the chance to get acquainted with their mentors, as well as learn basics of turkey hunting, including safety, techniques, turkey biology, hunting regulations and firearm handling. Hunters will also have time to utilize the range’s facilities for patterning their shotguns to ensure accurate and effective shots.

The hunts will take place Monday and Tuesday, April 29-30. MDC will provide pre-set blinds, chairs, firearms, and other equipment. Hunters must be hunter-education certified or exempt and must obtain a valid spring turkey hunting permit.

For those adults who have been curious to try turkey hunting, but have had no one to help them get started, this will be an ideal opportunity. To learn more, call 314-301-1506, ext. 4227.

For more about the 2019 Spring Firearms Turkey Season, which runs April 15-May 5, go to https://goo.gl/BCyqU6.