Fowler Farms Sporting Clays

Fowler Farms Sporting Clays opened in July 2004 on a working cattle and tobacco farm in Hot Springs, North Carolina. The operation is a fifth-generation family business, with the current and previous generations operating the facility. It's become a destination for shooters from across the US and internationally—customers have traveled from all corners of the map to shoot here.

Featured in Wildlife in North America magazine (September 2005): "The Fowlers are tapping into the fastest-growing shotgun sport in the United States to preserve the land for their children and grandchildren."

The course winds around a mountain trail approximately one mile long and includes:

• •11 shooting stations with automatic traps
• •Two traps per station for varied presentations
• •Challenging but fair target presentations that simulate field hunting shots
• •Beautiful mountain scenery with scenic NC 209 drive access
• •Slightly hilly terrain but easily walkable for most shooters

The course is designed to duplicate shots from game species including grouse, quail, pheasant, dove, pigeon, woodcock, waterfowl, and rabbit. Presentations range from beginner-friendly to advanced "big boy" targets.

• •Shotgun rentals: $20 each
• •Ammunition: $12 per box of 25 shells (bring your own or purchase on-site)
• •Eye protection: $5 per pair
• •Ear plugs: $0.25 per pair (bring your own or buy)
• •Golf cart rentals: $20 per cart (maximum 2 people per cart)

National Sporting Clays Association (NSCA) Level I Certified Instructor. Classes include:

• •Gun safety fundamentals
• •Presentation with various shotguns, shot loads, and clay targets
• •Proper body positioning for target acquisition
• •Leading and hitting technique instruction
• •Course etiquette
• •Practice round: 25 targets on practice trap
• •Course round: 50 targets throughout Fowler Farms

Dale provides shotguns, ammo, and eye/ear protection for those who need them. Testimonials describe him as professional, patient, and particularly effective with first-time shooters and youth.

Owned and founded by Jon Parrish, an NSCA Certified Level III Instructor and Master Class Shooter. Offers instruction in a safe, stress-free environment for all shooter types.

"Challenging course, unmatched scenery, and the nicest people you'd ever want to meet make Fowler Farms the only place I'd take guests for a sporting clays experience." — Jack, Asheville member with 10+ visits

"The combination of the great fellowship with friends, the wonderful hospitality of the Fowlers, and the unforgettable experiences of shooting sporting clays at this terrific mountain setting, I can't think of a better way to spend my spare time!" — Danny, Waynesville (10+ visits since 2007)

"My dad, brother and I had so much fun and the people there were really nice! This is one of the coolest places to do sporting clays I have ever been to!" — Craig, Ft. Lauderdale

Repeated visitors highlight the friendly atmosphere, challenging but fair course design, beautiful mountain location, and exceptional hospitality from the Fowler family.

• •Clubhouse with neat, well-organized facility
• •Drinks and snacks: Water, soda, chips, crackers available for nominal charge
• •Bring your own: Food and snacks welcome
• •Gift certificates: Available for birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and special occasions
• •Annual memberships: Available by request
• •Semi-annual Fun Shoots: Organized events with participation from regional shooters
• •Bird availability: Reasonably priced clay birds for dog training

No minimum age requirement to shoot, but anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent. All shooters must follow strict safety protocols—shotguns are deadly and Fowler Farms does not plan accidents.

• •Address: 490 Fowler Farm Rd, Hot Springs, NC 28743

Convenient drive from Asheville and surrounding areas. The scenic drive up NC 209 is noted by shooters as worthwhile in itself. Route is somewhat remote but easily navigable.

• •Contact:
• •Office: 828-622-0177
• •Home: 828-622-7380
• •Email: [email protected]

Sporting clays is the newest and fastest-growing shotgun sport in the USA. Originated in 1920s Great Britain to teach wing shooting to wealthy sportsmen, it has expanded worldwide as both a teaching method and competitive tournament sport. Participation in sporting clays tournaments grows faster than any other competitive shooting sport in America.

The sport simulates challenging hunting shots. Even though actual flight patterns differ from real game, the course designs replicate general behavior patterns of various bird and game species.