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DEFIANCE, Mo. — Spring Turkey Season is one of the most anticipated hunting seasons in the Show-Me-State. Missouri is especially well-known for its outstanding turkey hunting. These wary birds may present a challenge but beginning turkey hunters should not be intimidated by the sport.
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites new hunters to an Introduction to Turkey Hunting program Tuesday, April 11 from 5-7 p.m. at the August A. Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center in Defiance. This class is free and open to ages 9 and up, making it a good opportunity for both adult and youth hunters to enter the sport. Spring Turkey Season begins April 17, so now is the time to get prepared.
“If you are new to hunting or experienced in hunting but have not tried turkey hunting, this program is for you,” said Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center Manager, Bryant Hertel. “Spring turkey hunting offers a challenging and rewarding opportunity to get outside.”
This program will introduce new turkey hunters to hunting strategies needed for success in pursuing the elusive birds. The class will be taught by both MDC staff and members of the National Wild Turkey Federation, tapping into a wide range of expertise.
Participants will learn what kinds of habitat tend to hold turkeys, how to positively identify a turkey, basic hunting and shooting safety, hunting regulations, firearm selection and shotgun patterning. Students will get an introduction to the most popular turkey calls and effective calling techniques, including practical tips on when and how often to call. Other gear will be reviewed to help beginning hunters be successful, like clothing, hunting blinds, and decoys.
Introduction to Turkey Hunting is a free program, but advanced online registration is required at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/4Qg.
The August A. Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center is located at 3550 Route D, approximately five miles west of Highway 94 in Defiance.
Sign up for email or text alerts to stay informed of MDC’s latest programs and events by going to https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZoP.
