Hunting Events

Virtual Program

Are you looking forward to Spring, as nature comes to life and the morning air is filled with the sound of turkey toms gobbling? Turkey hunting has a rich tradition in Missouri, come learn from some local experts and increase your chances for a successful harvest this Spring. The program will be hosted at the Shepherd of the Hills Education Center on April 14th from 6:30-8:30pm.

Topics covered in the program:

MDC’s efforts to ensure our wild turkey population remains healthy and the status of our

turkey population

* Biological and behavioral characteristics of Eastern Wild Turkeys

* Rules and regulations associated with spring turkey hunting in Missouri

* The importance of safety while turkey hunting

* Scouting and finding places to hunt

* Using various turkey calls to duplicate wild turkey language

* Other turkey hunting strategies

* Processing your harvest

The program is open to all skill levels from beginner to the experienced turkey hunter. Come and learn skills and techniques to help you successfully harvest a gobbler this Spring! All registered participants will receive a turkey call. All participants under the age of 11 must be accompanied by an adult. For additional information or questions contact Lyle Whittaker (417)895-6880 Ext. 1644 or email Lyle.whittaker@mdc.mo.gov

Are you looking forward to Spring, as nature comes to life and the morning air is filled with the sound of turkey toms gobbling? Turkey hunting has a rich tradition in Missouri, come learn from some local experts and increase your chances for a successful harvest this Spring. The program will be hosted at the Shepherd of the Hills Education Center on April 14th from 6:30-8:30pm.

Topics covered in the program:

MDC’s efforts to ensure our wild turkey population remains healthy and the status of our

turkey population

* Biological and behavioral characteristics of Eastern Wild Turkeys

* Rules and regulations associated with spring turkey hunting in Missouri

* The importance of safety while turkey hunting

* Scouting and finding places to hunt

* Using various turkey calls to duplicate wild turkey language

* Other turkey hunting strategies

* Processing your harvest

The program is open to all skill levels from beginner to the experienced turkey hunter. Come and learn skills and techniques to help you successfully harvest a gobbler this Spring! All registered participants will receive a turkey call. All participants under the age of 11 must be accompanied by an adult. For additional information or questions contact Lyle Whittaker (417)895-6880 Ext. 1644 or email Lyle.whittaker@mdc.mo.gov

Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a curious beginner, come learn the art of turkey calling from hunters who will teach you the techniques, tips, and tricks to successfully mimic the sounds of wild turkeys. Bring your own calls to practice or use some of ours. All ages. Registration required.

Many of us are familiar with the slightly awkward strut of a turkey bobbing its way down a field. However, this was not always the case. In the early 20th century, the turkey population was at an all-time low, and it was quite rare to see one in the wild. Because of this, turkey hunting in the state looked very different than today. Learn about the success story of Missouri’s turkey population, how its population was and is today, and the history of turkey hunting throughout this time.

Are you interested in learning about black bear hunting in Missouri? This introductory class teaches you about Missouri black bears and what it takes to have a successful bear hunt. Topics included in this class are black bear biology, the permit application process, and general black bear hunting strategies. This class is suitable for Missourians trying to decide whether they should apply for a black bear hunting permit or those simply interested in learning more about black bear hunting.

THIS IS A VIRTUAL PROGRAM. A link for the program will be sent via email on the day of the course. Please make sure you check your Junk folder.

Join us as we discuss the nuances of small game hunting. We will go over techniques for squirrel and rabbits, but we will discuss various animals in the small game category. The link to join this class will be sent the morning of the class. Be sure to check your Spam or Junk box for the email. If an email is not received, please send an email to the instructor to let them know.

Discover how to turn a harvested turkey’s wings into a useful wing bone turkey call in this hands-on workshop. All materials will be provided but bring your own turkey wings if you harvested one this season. Bring a water bottle and dress for the weather as this program will be in the pavilion outdoors. Registration required. Ages 12+

This is a sign up for application. The Missouri Department of Conservation, Missouri Disabled Sportsmen, Outdoor Dream Foundation, and Dead End Game Calls are partnering to provide opportunity to new hunters and hunters with disabilities. We will be looking for candidates that have never harvested a turkey and candidates that require additional support. This program is for youth and adults, with the main objective to create new hunters and help those that need a hand to continue to hunt. Once registered candidates will receive an application. Those applications will be reviewed and candidates will be notified with the results. 8-10 hunters will be selected.

Utilize your turkey harvest this year and create a fan, spurs, and beard display. Learn how to create a turkey fan that will last forever and look amazing on your wall. After harvesting your turkey cut the tail off at the bone and place in a freezer bag. Also take the legs and beard and place in a freezer bag. If you don't have a turkey fan to use please withdraw from class so someone from the waitlist can join. If you have any Questions about the class you can Email: Sarah.elrod@mdc.mo.gov or call the Twin Pines Conservation Center. 573-325-1381

If you have ever wondered what exactly a gross score, net score, or a G3 means when it comes to deer antlers then join us for this virtual presentation on deer scoring. We will have a certified Boone & Crockett scorer present to you the basics of how deer are scored under this long established system. We will walk you through all of the measurements that are taken to determine your score and how you can calcuate it out to measure your own trophies.

This is a virtual presentation and an email will be sent out the morning of to invite those signed up to the virtual meeting. Make sure to check junk or spam folders if you have trouble finding the link.

NOTE: This is NOT a training to become a certified scorer. To be entered into record books, all antlers/horns/skulls must be scored by an Official Measurer of the organization that you wish to enter into.