MDC hosts free National Hunting and Fishing Day activities

Celebrate nature and learn skills Sept. 26 at Family Outdoors Day in Lee's Summit

Kansas City, Mo. –  The public is invited to learn about ducks, fishing, fun and shooting skills at Family Outdoors Day, as the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and Ducks Unlimited (DU) host National Hunting and Fishing Day activities 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26, at the James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area in Lee’s Summit.

   Family Outdoors Day welcomes those experienced with rod or gun and those who would like to learn about angling and shooting sports. All activities are free. Exhibits and teaching stations will be set up throughout the Reed Wildlife Area at 12405 S.E. Ranson Road.

   Visitors can shoot trap with shotguns, target shoot with air rifles or try out target archery. Each shooting site will have MDC staff and volunteers to give instructions on safety and proper shooting techniques. All equipment, firearms and ammunition will be provided for free.

   DU will offer free Greenwing Memberships to youngsters and teach them how to use a duck call. Families can explore the duck wing maze and learn about how wetlands and uplands benefit waterfowl and people.

   Fishing gear and instructors will be available at a Reed Area lake. MDC staffers and volunteers can answer questions about fish populations in the region’s lakes and streams. They will offer tips on how to fish, such as how to cast a bait or lure with a rod and reel. Instructors can also assist anglers who want to fish in the lake.

   All ages will find activities to enjoy. Visitors can touch real animal furs and test their skills at wildlife identification.

   National Hunting and Fishing Day began in 1972. The event is dedicated to promoting conservation and the outdoor sports. MDC’s Family Outdoors Day at the Reed Area also includes sponsorship by the J.E. Fehsenfeld Family Foundation in memory of Jan M. Dillow.

   For more information call 816-622-0900. To learn about Missouri’s great fishing and hunting opportunities statewide go to http://www.mdc.mo.gov.

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