June 18, 2022

Frogs hold a place as predator and prey in ecosystems. They eat anything small enough for them to grab, and they’re eaten by fish, wildlife, and people. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will offer a free frog gigging clinic from 8 to 10:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 30, at the James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area in Lee’s Summit. MDC will provide both training and all materials needed.

Frog gigging or grabbing is usually a night-time venture. Often frog hunters wade along shorelines of rivers or ponds. A light shined on the water’s edge will reveal gleaming frog eyes. The light can freeze them in place where they can be gigged, or for the more adventurous, grabbed. The hind legs of frogs provide meat that is considered good eating.

The clinic will begin with an overview about various frog species and their role in ecology. John Rittel, MDC community education assistant, will talk about the methods for harvesting frogs. At sunset, the clinic will move to lakes on the area. Each individual or family will be assigned a mentor to accompany them. MDC will provide frog gigs, flashlights, and frog cleaning materials. After the hunt, mentors will help participants clean the frogs they harvested.

This clinic is open to adults and youths ages 9 and older. Youths under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. COVID-19 safety precautions will be observed. Participants are encouraged to bring their own flashlights and head lamps. They should wear clothes and shoes that they don’t mind getting wet and muddy. Insect repellent is recommended. Fishing permits are not required for this clinic.

Registration is required. To register, visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/45A.

For more information about frogs in Missouri, visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/4UL.