Learn to Shoot
Shooting sports promote concentration and focus and have been shown to increase self-esteem, particularly in young participants. Learn how you can get involved in this fun, safe and unique activity.
Archery and shooting sports opportunities
Nebraska Game and Parks and 4-H both offer classes, workshops and camps for young shooters interested in learning more about archery and other shooting sports.
JOAD is a nationwide program of USA Archery that provides youth, ages 8-20. Ongoing archery instruction helps them progress from beginner to advanced level archery students while they learn at their own pace.
4-H Shooting Sports teach youth the fundamentals of safe gun handling under the guidance of knowledgeable and caring adult volunteers. All 4-H programs are created to help youth build self worth and become responsible, productive citizens. Project choices in the shooting sports program include archery, shotgun, air rifle/BB gun, smallbore rifle, air pistol, smallbore pistol, muzzleloading, and hunting and outdoor skills.
The annual Nebraska Youth Smallbore Silhouette Invitational is the longest-running organized youth shooting event in Nebraska. The event is held each September at Pressey Wildlife Management Area. This free competition is open to all youth age 11 or older who have successfully completed Hunter Education and who have not yet graduated from high school. For more information, call Matthew Haumont at 308-872-2348.
Explore Archery is perfect for youth, ages 8 and up, looking to learn the basics of archery. Held quarterly at the Turpin Outdoor Education Center, students learn fundamentals, range safety and proper shooting form. In addition, students play exciting games and earn achievement awards. Equipment is provided.
The Cornhusker Trap Shooting Program provides high school, junior high and 6th-grade students the opportunity to participate in the Annual Cornhusker High School and Junior High School Trap Shoot. The Cornhusker Trap Shoot is open to all shooters nationwide grades 6-12 who have completed a hunter education course.
Firearm and archery ranges
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission offers several family-friendly shooting ranges across the state for all ages and skill levels. These ranges offer beginners safe, fun places to learn the basics of archery, shotgun shooting and more under the guidance of trained experts. Shooters will appreciate state-of-the-art facilities, classes, workshops, competitions and more. There are also many standalone ranges across the state. Learn more about our shooting complexes, education centers and ranges in Nebraska.
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