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St. CHARLES, Mo. — The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) would like to acquaint frog hunters with a new way to pursue their game. But there are some strings attached — bowstrings.
Hunting frogs by bow and arrow is growing in popularity. Bow frogging blends aspects of fishing and hunting into the same sport. MDC will offer a class on beginning bow frogging Friday, July 8, from 7:30-9:30 p.m. The class will be held in the St. Charles area; however, the exact location is dependent on a number of factors and will be determined closer to the event. Those who register will be provided with location details prior to the class.
Much like bow fishing, hunters stalk frogs using a conventional bow rigged with a reel and line, similar to what would be attached to a fishing rod. The line is fixed to an arrow which bears a special tip.
“You can pretty much use the same equipment for bow frogging you would use for bow fishing,” said MDC Naturalist Alicia Lombardo, one of the class teachers.
Lombardo said one advantage of using bow and arrow is the increased range as compared to hunting with a traditional gig. “You don’t have to approach the frog as close, and so you’re less likely to scare it off. Since most bow frogging is done from the banks, you don’t even have to get into the water,” she said.
The class will teach participants how to identify frogs, bow frogging techniques, and frog hunting regulations. It is suitable for both advanced and beginning archers. All equipment will be provided. Following the instruction, naturalists will lead a frog hunt on an area pond.
“Then we’ll show you how to prepare and cook up delicious frog legs,” Lombardo said.
The program is free and open to age 12 and up. Participants are reminded to dress for the weather and be prepared to be outdoors at night. Advanced registration is required by calling 636-441-4554.
Frogging season opens in Missouri on June 30 at sunset. Both bullfrogs and green frogs are legal game. The daily limit is eight frogs, with a total possession limit of 16. They may be taken by longbow with either a valid hunting or fishing permit. Pursuing frogs by crossbow will require a legal small game hunting permit. More details about frog hunting can be found at http://huntfish.mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/frog-green-bull/frog-green-bull-seasons-hours.
The bow frogging class is one of the many programs and events offered by MDC throughout the St. Louis area to help people discover nature. To keep informed of all activities, subscribe to the free monthly Conservation Connections Newsletter by visiting https://mdc.mo.gov/magazines/newsletter/conservation-connections.
