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DEFIANCE, Mo—What’s almost like going fishing and hunting—at the same time? Bow Fishing. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) wants to give newcomers more chances to discover the fun of this unique pursuit. By using archery equipment and methods, bowfishing merges aspects of both fishing and hunting into one activity.
MDC is offering a free two-part Introduction to bowfishing that includes an introductory class followed by a mentored field experience. The classroom portion will be held Thursday, June 21 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the August A. Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center in Defiance. The class will cover topics that include safety, proper gear, where to bow fish, fish ID, regulations, and ethics.
The classroom portion will be followed by a mentored bow fishing outing on Saturday, June 25 from 8 a.m.-noon. Participants can put into practice techniques learned in the classroom during an in-field bow fishing opportunity. The actual location will be determined by water levels and accessibility and sent to participants ahead of time.
This introductory program is for beginners aged 9 years and up who want to learn how to get started in this exciting sport. MDC will supply all equipment needed.
All participants must attend the class to participate in the field portion. A valid fishing or hunting permit is also required to attend this program. Those 15 years of age or younger, or 65 years of age or older, are exempt. For safety reasons, all participants must be able to fully draw and hold at full draw a 15-lb. draw weight compound bow.
The program is free but advanced online registration is required by going to https://short.mdc.mo.gov/45Y.
The August A. Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center is located at 3550 Route D in Defiance, approximately five miles west of Highway 94.
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