WEST PLAINS, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will host a Youth Bowfishing Clinic for ages 12 to 17, Saturday, June 4, at 6 p.m., at Udall access on Norfork Lake, south of Tecomseh.

"This will be an exciting and educational experience where young people will have an opportunity to learn how to fish with their bow," said Larry Lindeman, an MDC outdoor skills specialist.

Lindeman said participants will learn the basics of bowfishing before embarking on a bowfishing trip. The clinic will feature qualified instructors who will share bowfishing shooting techniques, types of specialized equipment needed, fish identification, bowfishing strategies, fish preparation, regulations and more.

Lindeman said this program is a response to rising interest in archery that's resulted from an increase of school participation in the Missouri National Archery in the Schools program.

"This event takes the participant from the gymnasium to the water and gives students an opportunity to apply the skills they've likely already learned in school," Lindeman said. "Our ultimate goal is to get the kids submerged in nature and learning a valuable outdoor skill."

Lindeman said participants must have some basic experience in archery and be able to draw a 20-pound bow. An adult guardian is also required to attend with each student. All equipment will be provided and pre-registration is required in order to attend. Attendees 16 and older must have a valid fishing permit. For more information or to register, contact the MDC's Ozark Regional Office at (417)256-7161.