Ellsworth’s Rod and Gun Club: one stop shop for shooting, archery and fishing

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Rebecca Imwalle
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Ellsworth's Rod and Gun Club provides Airmen an opportunity to learn and develop skills in recreational activities such as archery, shooting and fishing.

For a membership fee, Airmen can join and take advantages of the benefits which include free 24-hour access to the Doolittle Indoor Archery Range, a free on-base fishing license, and a $2 discount on the trap and skeet range.

"The Rod and Gun Club really brings all of those areas together and makes it a one stop shot," said Chief Master Sgt. Kevin Peterson, 28th Bomb Wing command chief, of the rod and gun club benefits.

Peterson added that the club is available for all skill levels, making it great experience for beginners as well as competitive shooters.

"It's always important to try new things," Peterson said. "It can even be a family affair...my whole family goes out and shoots archery [together] and it [makes for some] great family time."

Carrie Brewer, 28th Force Support Squadron marketing director, explained how everyone can enjoy being a part of the club.

"If you don't have all the equipment you need, we do have items you can rent to use at our facilities," Brewer said. "Single Airmen can rent some of these items at no cost."

Last year, the club had more than 100 members and continues to extend an invitation to anyone who is interested in joining. She explained that they are looking to increase awareness of what is available  so that Airmen and their families can take advantage of the benefits the club offers.

"The more members we have, the better our facilities can be," Brewer said. "That is because the money brought in by the Rod and Gun Club goes towards keeping targets up-to-date and to keep our facilities looking nice."

The Rod and Gun club has been active for a little over a year and is doing very well so far, Brewer said. 

"We're still finding ways to improve the rod and gun club," Brewer explained. "As our club grows larger, we want to do more with it, so don't be surprised if you see some changes in what it offers."

For more information on the Ellsworth Rod and Gun Club, call outdoor recreation at (605) 385-2997.