Wingshooting

The wingshooting program was developed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is based on the research of CONSEP (Cooperative North American Shotgunning Education Program). CONSEP was started in 1982 to get statistically derived data to assist hunters in choosing an effective non-toxic shot shotgun load while hunting. Iowa was one of the original member states and continues to support the efforts of CONSEP.

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Program Goals

The program is designed to educate our hunters, 16 years and older, on how to become more effective wing shooters by providing our wing shooters with the necessary information to become better shots so they can decrease wounding loss while hunting waterfowl and upland birds. 

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Steel Shot Workshops

The workshops will also make wing shooters aware of their hunting behaviors that they will need to improve on to insure the future of our sport. The program discusses and lay to rest any of the myths that wing shooters have about non-toxic shot and then wing shooters will be given instruction on shooting non-toxic shot and have the opportunity to practice what they were taught.

The Iowa DNR Wingshooting Education Program is a workshop designed to assist bird hunters with improving their effectiveness using steel shot. Topics include:

  • Assessing and improving shotgun shooting skills
  • Proper pattern testing
  • Proper selection of shotgun, chokes, and shot shell loads
  • Steel shot vs. lead shot
  • Recoil concerns
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Workshop Materials & What to Bring

When you attend a wingshooting education workshop, you should bring:

  • The shotgun you use for hunting
  • Choke tubes
  • Non-toxic shotgun ammunition for pattern testing
  • Eye and ear protection
  • Stool or chair
  • Appropriate outdoor clothing for all weather conditions

Clay targets and 12 and 20 gauge steel shot practice ammunition will be provided.

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Find a Workshop

Contact Megan Wisecup at (515) 238-4968. Participants will have two short classroom sessions. The majority of the workshop will be spent on the range working one-on-one with the instructor.

To find out more information on the Iowa Wingshooting Education Program from our brochure.

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