You don’t have to be a kid to get really excited about bagging your first bird.

JEFFERSON CITY–With youth turkey season in the rear-view mirror and the regular, three-week season coming up fast, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds hunters they can create lasting memories with the First Turkey Award.

Last year Kaylin Bade bagged her first turkey. Maybe this year it's your turn.

The First Turkey Program provides free commemorative certificates suitable for framing. You can even add a photo of the proud hunter with his or her bird. Creating a tangible reminder of a once-in-a-lifetime experience begins with visiting ://httpmdc.mo.gov/node/10469. The same site has forms for a hunter’s first turkey or deer, for youths or adults.
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The parallel program for anglers is the First Fish Program. The First-Fish Award form is available at mdc.mo.gov/node/10474.

Missouri leads the nation in hunter and angler recruitment thanks to successful fish and game management and outdoor-skills programs that encourage Missourians to take up traditional outdoor pursuits. Low permit prices compared to neighboring states keep healthful, sustainable outdoor activities affordable.

Go to Traveler’s Friends Posts page to see more successful 2012 turkey hunters.

(MDC news release.)