The term “Turkey Shoot” might conjure up visions of hunters roaming the woods hunting for these wily birds. Then you see a sign promoting a Turkey Shoot being held every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for the next several weeks. You might wonder: How many turkeys can possibly be up in those woods?
It turns out that there are more than a few turkeys roaming the wooded property that makes up the Boothbay Region Fish and Game Associations’ enclave. Rest assured — none of these wild birds are being shot, at the very least not during a Turkey Shoot.
Turkey Shoots can vary in format from region to region, but all involve some sort of target shooting using shotguns, rifles, and sometimes handguns. The contests can require blind luck or honed marksmanship, meaning there’s something for every level of shooter to enjoy.
The BRF&GA’s 2022 Turkey Shoots are being held starting the first Sunday in October (Oct. 2) and each Sunday through the first Sunday in November (Nov. 6) from 10 to 2 on the club property located at 447 Dover Road, Boothbay.
The following contests are held each Sunday, and the winners will win a variety of frozen food prizes, including turkeys:
Card Shoot: A shotgun event where participants shoot at a 3” x 5” target from a distance of 50 feet. Whether you’re a grizzled marksman or a first time shooter you have an equal chance of winning this contest. The shooter with the pellet closest to the “X” in the middle of the target wins the prize.
Mechanical Target: Shooters use .22 rimfire rifles at a distance of 25 yards to take 5 shots at a reactive target of metal “spoons”. The shooter with the most “plinks” wins.
Skeet Shoot: A shotgun event. Clay pigeons are launched from a mechanical throwing device, and the object is to shoot both clays before they land. This shoot often takes multiple rounds to determine a winner, making for a great spectator event.
100-Yard Shoots: These events consist of two types of shooting – a bench rest shoot and an offhand (standing) shoot, both at a distance of 100 yards, This event is reserved for larger caliber rifles generally used for hunting. The object is simply to have the most accurate shot in the bullseye.
All events are open to the public and all ages are welcome. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Hearing and eye protection are required. Food and refreshments will be served for nominal prices. Entry fees per event will be determined on the day of the competition, but will also be nominal given the cost of food prizes and ammunition costs which are provided for some of the events. Come on up to the club and join in, or just enjoy a juicy burger and watch!
A turkey shoot fundraiser is a time-honored tradition in many communities, especially in rural areas. These lively shooting contests offer great family entertainment while raising money for schools, churches, charities and other non-profit causes.
If done right hosting a turkey shoot can be a highly lucrative event for your organization. This comprehensive guide will explain what a turkey shoot is how it works, tips for organizing a successful event, and the benefits of making it an annual fundraiser.
What is a Turkey Shoot?
A turkey shoot is a shotgun shooting competition where participants take aim at paper targets for a chance to win prizes The main prize is usually a frozen turkey, earning the contest its name Hams, roasts and other meat products are also common prizes awarded.
Turkey shoots have been popular charity fundraisers since the late 1800s. The contests originated as a way for communities to provide meat for holiday meals during tough economic times.
While called a “turkey shoot,” nowadays any type of meat may be offered as a prize. Gift cards or cash prizes are also common rewards.
How Does a Turkey Shoot Fundraiser Work?
Though rules can vary, here are the standard elements:
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Venue – Hosted outdoors at a shooting range or gun club. Indoor venues also work.
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Equipment – Shotguns provided or contestants use their own. Ammunition supplied.
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Targets – Paper targets with bullseyes placed 25-35 yards away.
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Scoring – Shooter whose pellet hits closest to bullseye wins a prize.
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Entry Fee – $2-$5 charged per shot taken. Higher for special rounds.
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Prizes – Turkeys, hams, roasts, bacon, gift cards, cash.
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Rounds – 10-20 rounds run with prizes awarded each round.
The simple format allows anyone from beginner to expert an equal chance at winning.
Organizing Your Turkey Shoot Fundraiser
Hosting a smooth event takes careful preparation:
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Pick a Date – Avoid conflicting with other major events.
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Secure Venue – Partner with a gun range or club. Address insurance needs.
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Acquire Equipment – Source shotguns or allow personal guns. Stock ammo.
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Purchase Prizes – Buy turkeys, hams, roasts in bulk well in advance.
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Promote the Event – Advertise on social media, posters, radio ads, etc.
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Recruit Volunteers – Need ticket sellers, range officers, prize handlers, etc.
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Establish Rules – Determine special rounds, shooting categories, scoring system.
Your detailed planning ensures a fun, safe and well-run turkey shoot.
Benefits of Hosting a Turkey Shoot Fundraiser
These unique events offer many advantages for fundraising:
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Entertaining – Appreciated by all ages. Exciting, competitive environment.
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Lucrative – Can easily raise thousands through entry fees. Low overhead costs.
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Traditional – Strong community ties and eagerness to participate.
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Promotional – Spreads awareness of your organization to new audiences.
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Repeatable – Establish an annual tradition for ongoing revenue.
With proper promotion, your turkey shoot can become a highly anticipated event.
Budget, Pricing and Revenue
A 500 person turkey shoot can realistically generate $10,000-$15,000 in net profit.
Potential Revenue:
- 500 Attendees x 15 Rounds x $5 Per Round = $37,500
- 5 Special Rounds x $20 Per Round = $5,000
- Total Revenue = $42,500
Estimated Expenses:
- Venue Rental – $500
- Insurance & Permits – $1,500
- 500 Turkeys x $10 Each = $5,000
- 500 Hams x $30 Each = $15,000
- 500 Meat Packs x $10 Each = $5,000
- Promotion & Supplies = $2,000
- Total Expenses = $28,500
Net Profit = $14,000
Your pricing can be adjusted to meet fundraising goals. Raffle sales also add revenue.
Promoting Your Event
Effective promotion ensures maximum participation:
- Social media campaigns and sharing.
- Posters/flyers around the community.
- Newspaper and radio ads.
- Organization newsletters and website.
- Email blasts.
- Word-of-mouth buzz.
Keys to a Successful Turkey Shoot
On event day, ensure everything runs smoothly:
- Friendly, dedicated volunteers for all tasks.
- Range officers to oversee safety and commands.
- Multiple judges to quickly settle shot disputes.
- Efficient system for target changes.
- PA announcements for rules and winners.
- Upbeat music during downtimes.
- Food/drink concessions for added revenue.
- Raffles and vendor booths for engagement.
- Photograph event for social media promotion.
Your passion will make the event a rewarding experience for all. Participants will eagerly look forward to attending every year.
Hosting a creative, well-organized turkey shoot fundraiser provides a fun community event while generating substantial revenue for your non-profit or charity. Although it requires significant planning, a successful turkey shoot can become a beloved annual tradition. This guide outlines everything needed to run an exciting, lucrative event that fosters lasting community spirit while funding great causes.
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The term “Turkey Shoot” might conjure up visions of hunters roaming the woods hunting for these wily birds. Then you see a sign promoting a Turkey Shoot being held every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for the next several weeks. You might wonder: How many turkeys can possibly be up in those woods?
It turns out that there are more than a few turkeys roaming the wooded property that makes up the Boothbay Region Fish and Game Associations’ enclave. Rest assured — none of these wild birds are being shot, at the very least not during a Turkey Shoot.
Turkey Shoots can vary in format from region to region, but all involve some sort of target shooting using shotguns, rifles, and sometimes handguns. The contests can require blind luck or honed marksmanship, meaning there’s something for every level of shooter to enjoy.
The BRF&GA’s 2022 Turkey Shoots are being held starting the first Sunday in October (Oct. 2) and each Sunday through the first Sunday in November (Nov. 6) from 10 to 2 on the club property located at 447 Dover Road, Boothbay.
The following contests are held each Sunday, and the winners will win a variety of frozen food prizes, including turkeys:
Card Shoot: A shotgun event where participants shoot at a 3” x 5” target from a distance of 50 feet. Whether you’re a grizzled marksman or a first time shooter you have an equal chance of winning this contest. The shooter with the pellet closest to the “X” in the middle of the target wins the prize.
Mechanical Target: Shooters use .22 rimfire rifles at a distance of 25 yards to take 5 shots at a reactive target of metal “spoons”. The shooter with the most “plinks” wins.
Skeet Shoot: A shotgun event. Clay pigeons are launched from a mechanical throwing device, and the object is to shoot both clays before they land. This shoot often takes multiple rounds to determine a winner, making for a great spectator event.
100-Yard Shoots: These events consist of two types of shooting – a bench rest shoot and an offhand (standing) shoot, both at a distance of 100 yards, This event is reserved for larger caliber rifles generally used for hunting. The object is simply to have the most accurate shot in the bullseye.
All events are open to the public and all ages are welcome. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Hearing and eye protection are required. Food and refreshments will be served for nominal prices. Entry fees per event will be determined on the day of the competition, but will also be nominal given the cost of food prizes and ammunition costs which are provided for some of the events. Come on up to the club and join in, or just enjoy a juicy burger and watch!
What is a Turkey Shoot?
FAQ
What happens at a turkey shoot?
The shooter with the pellet closest to the “X” in the middle of the target wins the prize. Mechanical Target: Shooters use . 22 rimfire rifles at a distance of 25 yards to take 5 shots at a reactive target of metal “spoons”. The shooter with the most “plinks” wins.
Is a turkey shoot gambling?
Such contests shall not constitute such gambling or lottery as otherwise prohibited in this chapter, or be subject to civil or criminal penalties. Such organizations must be organized for purposes other than the conduct of turkey shoots.
How far is a turkey shoot target?
gmsa turkey shoots
Targets are numbered and set at a distance of 29 yards (87 feet) from the shooting bench. Shooters may shoot from seated position with shotgun resting on the bench or may shoot standing up with shotgun supported or off hand.
What is a turkey shoot fundraiser?
Most modern turkey shoots incorporate various target-shooting competitions, raffles, refreshments and entertainment. Some turkey- shoot fundraisers forgo the shooting altogether to offer an evening exclusive to raffles and chance games. Participation increases the funds generated, so involving as many people as possible makes financial sense.
How many rounds is a turkey shoot?
The turkey shoot will be either a 5 round or a 10 round shot depending on the vote of the contestants. Each contestant is assigned a shooting line number, and each starting line number corresponds to a numbered target frame 27 yards away. What is the turkey shoot analogy?
What is a good prize for a turkey shoot?
Popular prizes include: Frozen turkeys – The classic prize where the event gets its name. Hams, roasts, and sausages – Pork shoulders, legs, and ground meat products. Cash prizes – Sponsors may donate money to top shooters. Baked goods – Some shoots raffle off homemade pies, cookies, and cakes.
What can you donate to a turkey shoot?
A local sporting-goods store may be willing to donate a gift certificate, gun, ammunition, hunting equipment or other prize in exchange for the opportunity to set up an advertising booth at the event. Turkey shoots are often in November to coincide with the Thanksgiving Day feast.
How do I win a turkey shoot?
If you want to maximize your luck at winning a turkey shoot, keep these tips in mind: Use a 12 gauge shotgun for a wider spread. Many shoots don’t allow slugs or buckshot. A tighter full choke will concentrate your shot pattern. Modified or improved cylinder chokes spread pellets too much at short range.
What are the different types of turkey shoots?
Here are some of the different types of turkey shoots: Card Shoot: Shooters aim at paper target cards marked with their number from 25-30 yards away. The card with a shot closest to the center X wins. This is the most common format. Splatter Board Shoot: A large piece of cardboard is marked off in a grid.