Prairie State Wire

Youth aged 12 and older, along with adults, can now register for the upcoming hunter level wingshooting clinic hosted by the Briar Knoll Hunting and Fishing Club. The event is scheduled for June 14 and 15 at the club's location in Lee County.

This clinic targets individuals who have surpassed beginner levels and wish to refine their clay target shooting skills. A registration fee of $30 per participant is required. Interested parties can register online, where they will also find the full calendar for the 2025 wingshooting clinics.

The wingshooting clinics simulate real field hunting conditions, providing participants with presentations that imitate the flight patterns of various game species such as pheasants, quail, rabbits, doves, and ducks. Each day offers two sessions starting at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m., led by certified instructors from either the Illinois Department of Natural Resources or the National Sporting Clays Association.

The event receives sponsorship from The Briar Knoll Hunting and Fishing Club, The Illinois Conservation, and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).

The IDNR marks its centennial year in 2025. Established on July 1, 1925, as the Illinois Department of Conservation, it consolidated oversight functions related to fish and game management among others. Today, IDNR oversees approximately 400 sites throughout Illinois including state parks and historic sites while managing wildlife resources and offering various permits and grants. More information is available at https://dnr.illinois.gov.