The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has partnered with the Mississippi Valley Duck Hunters Association (MVDA) to offer a Youth Duck Hunting Clinic on October 11, 2025, at the Jay Henges Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center in Eureka, Missouri. This free clinic is designed for young hunters between the ages of 10 and 16 and aims to provide them with the necessary skills and knowledge for a successful and safe hunting experience. The clinic comes at a pivotal time, with Missouri's North and Middle Duck Hunting Zones preparing for the opening of the regular hunting season on November 1, 2025, and the Youth Duck Hunting Season starting on October 25, 2025. During the clinic, participants will receive hands-on training from experts, learning about various aspects of waterfowl hunting. The clinic will cover key topics such as essential hunting equipment, the proper use of decoys, and how to effectively call ducks. Additionally, there will be live demonstrations on dog retrieving, a critical skill for hunters looking to improve their fieldwork. The clinic will also include live fire shotgun practice, offering young hunters the opportunity to practice their shooting techniques in a controlled environment. All firearms and ammunition will be provided by MDC, ensuring that participants have access to quality equipment for their training. MDC's Noah Brocato, the Outdoor Education Center Manager, emphasized the importance of these training events for young hunters. He stated that 'waterfowl hunting is a great way to spend time outdoors, but sometimes it can be difficult to determine where you need to start. Joining us for this Youth Duck Hunting Clinic is a great start.' By attending the clinic, young hunters will gain valuable skills that will not only enhance their hunting experience but also ensure their safety and confidence in the field. The clinic is also designed to encourage family involvement. While the event is primarily focused on youth participants, Brocato encourages family members to attend as well. 'We also encourage family members to attend the course with the students to grow their waterfowl skills and knowledge as well,' he added. This family-oriented approach fosters a sense of community and encourages a shared passion for outdoor activities. MDC aims to make the clinic both educational and enjoyable for participants, ensuring that young hunters feel supported and empowered as they prepare for their first hunts. In addition to the live demonstrations and hands-on training, MDC will provide all participants with a chance to engage in discussions with experts about the state of duck populations and habitat management. These discussions will help hunters better understand the importance of conservation efforts and the role that responsible hunting plays in preserving wildlife. The event will also focus on educating young hunters about hunting ethics, safety protocols, and the need to respect wildlife and the environment. 'This clinic is more than just an introduction to hunting,' said Brocato. 'It's about fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world and encouraging the next generation to be responsible stewards of our environment.' By offering this training, MDC hopes to instill in young hunters a sense of respect for the outdoors that will stay with them throughout their lives. The Youth Duck Hunting Clinic is free to attend, but spots are limited, and preregistration is required. Participants can register online through the MDC website at The registration fee is waived for youth participants, but those who wish to attend should act quickly, as the available spots tend to fill up fast. Lunch and refreshments will be provided, ensuring that participants are well-fed and energized throughout the day. For those looking to get a jump-start on their hunting skills before the season officially begins, this clinic offers the perfect opportunity. Whether a young hunter is just starting out or has some experience under their belt, the clinic is designed to cater to all skill levels, providing valuable tips and hands-on practice to improve proficiency. This event serves as an excellent introduction to the world of duck hunting, equipping participants with the tools they need for success in the field. The event promises to be both informative and enjoyable, giving participants a chance to connect with other like-minded individuals and learn from experienced professionals.