MDC offers squirrel hunting workshop for new hunters in Boone County

COLUMBIA, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites new hunters to attend a free squirrel hunting clinic and mentored hunt in Boone County, from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Dec. 15.

This workshop will consist of a classroom portion covering safety, hunting techniques, and how to clean and prepare squirrel meat. Following the classroom session, participants will put their skills to the test in the field with a mentored hunt.

“Squirrels are a plentiful game species and make for fantastic table fare,” said MDC Outdoor Skills Specialist Justin McGuire. “Squirrel hunting is a great introduction to woodsmanship, marksmanship, and the utilization of game meat in your family’s diet. This program is designed for those who have never hunted but are interested in learning these skills.”

This free workshop is open to new hunters ages 14-years and older. Hunters younger than 18-years old must be accompanied by an adult who is also registered for the program. 

Participants should bring boots and earth-tone or camouflage clothing appropriate for the weather forecast. Some clothing will be available upon request. Firearms, ammunition, and mentors will be provided for all participants.

All participants must be properly licensed with a valid small game hunting permit. Participants younger than 16-years old do not need hunter education certification. Participants ages 16 – 64-years old must have completed hunter education certification or purchase an Apprentice Hunter Authorization. Participants ages 65-years and older do not need a small game hunting permit.

Find more information on permits here: huntfish.mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/permits.

To attend this workshop, participants must preregister by 5 p.m. on Dec. 12 at mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/163448.   

For more information, contact McGuire at 573-815-7901, ext. 2866, or Justin.McGuire@mdc.mo.gov.