St. LOUIS, Mo.– Proper wingshooting technique and understanding ammunition characteristics are both crucial to successful migratory and upland game bird hunting.  They’re also critical to reduce the unwanted wounding of birds.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is offering two Introduction to Effective Wingshooting classes this September to help prepare hunters for the upland bird and waterfowl hunting seasons ahead.  The free programs feature identical content, but advanced online registration is required at the supplied links.  Both classes run from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Dates and locations are:

• Wednesday, Sept. 12, at the new August A. Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center in St. Charles.  Register at https://tinyurl.com/ycyt6elo.
• Tuesday, Sept. 18, at The Jay Henges Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center in High Ridge.  Register at https://tinyurl.com/ycwnth6k.

This basic program includes an introduction to wingshooting fundamentals, non-toxic shot shell ammunition selection for hunting, and shotgun patterning.  The objective of the class is to help migratory and upland bird hunters improve their hunting skills using non-toxic shot. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service requires the use of non-toxic shot on waterfowl hunting areas.  It is also mandatory on many MDC areas.

The class will also address distance estimation and shotgun patterning.

Participants will have the chance to practice shooting skills and technique, so they should bring their own hunting shotgun and choke tubes, if applicable, plus eye/ear protection.  MDC will supply the non-toxic ammunition.

The new August A. Busch Shooting Range is located at 3550 Route D in Defiance, approximately five miles west of Highway 94.  The Jay Henges Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center, is located at 1100 Antire Road, just off I-44, exit 269 in High Ridge.