Mcsherrystown Fish and Game

Founded in 1946 by Philip A. Wagaman and 25 sportsmen from the McSherrystown and Centennial area, McSherrystown Fish and Game Protective Association has grown into one of Adams County's most active outdoor organizations. What started as a mission to restore wildlife and improve landowner relations has become a 90-acre facility supporting hunting, fishing, archery, and conservation.

The club sits on the East banks of Conewago Creek in Oxford Township, Pennsylvania. The original 19-acre property (purchased in 1951 for $1,000) has expanded to 90 acres of managed land.

Firearm Range - Covered rifle range with benches - Shooting distances: 25, 50, and 100 yards - 30-yard shotgun pattern range - 20-yard open pistol range - Paper targets only - Located directly across from the main clubhouse

Archery Range - 22-acre dedicated archery area - 14 shooting lanes - Elevated platform - Open field with backstops - Field point shooting recommended - Bring your own bags and targets

Fishing - Club pond established 1961, rebuilt and restocked 1995 - Holds over 12,000 tons of water - Stocked with bass and bluegills - Equipped with aerators - Annual fishing derbies since 1971 - Kids-only opening day (April 5) then public access

Members can bring one adult guest (16+) or one child (15 or under) on the firing line. No fully automatic weapons, rapid fire, or alcoholic beverages allowed. November is members-only at the firearm ranges. All paper targets required on rifle ranges. Ranges close during special events and deer rifle season (late November through December).

• •Cost: $60 joining fee ($20 joining + $40 current-year dues)

Requirements: - Age 16+ (parental consent required for ages 16–17) - Valid hunting/fishing license OR NRA/similar national organization card - Current photo ID - Sponsorship by a current member - No felony convictions - Must attend two consecutive monthly meetings for voting

• •New Member Obligation: 8 work hours on club grounds or at club events within first calendar year. Failure to complete results in membership removal.

• •Monthly Meetings: Last Tuesday of each month, 7:30 PM (no November meeting). Membership applications processed on-site; arrive 15–30 minutes early.

McSherrystown Fish and Game is affiliated with: - National Rifle Association (NRA) - PA. State Archery Association (PSAA) - Adams County Chapter 323 of Trout Unlimited - South-central Outdoors for Youth (SOY) - PA. Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) - PA. Game Commission (PGC) - PA. American Long rifles Association (PALA) - United Bow Hunters of PA (UBP) - PA. Trappers Association - PA. Federation of Black Powder Shooters (PFBPS)

The club's main hall and commercial kitchen rent for $250 (members) or $300 (non-members). The Woods Pavilion rents for $150 (members) or $200 (non-members).

The hall accommodates about 100 people seated at tables and includes a commercial kitchen with 10+ burners, 3 ovens, medium refrigerator, microwave, pots, pans, and tables/chairs for setup. A small pavilion with 2 picnic tables is free for members (no large parties).

• •Contact: [email protected] or Judy at 717-580-2253

The club's founding mission—conservation, restoration, and wildlife management—remains core. Current projects include: - Pheasant stocking and hunting program (since 1947) - Pond management and fish stocking - Hunter education certification - South-central Outdoors for Youth partnership - Youth pheasant hunts (ages 12–16, requires Hunter Ed certification) - Kids' fishing events and field days - Annual youth trout fishing program

Jim Smith, Recording Secretary, was named an Honorary Life Member in 2024 for his decades of work—from organizing events to mopping floors after club functions. His willingness to do whatever the club needed exemplifies the member-driven ethos.

• •Address: 2 Fish & Game Road, New Oxford, PA 17350
• •Phone: 717-624-2668
• •Email: [email protected]

Membership dues ($40 annually) are collected on scheduled in-person dates (second and last Tuesday, 6:30–9 PM, plus weekend dates and club events) or by mail. Check the website or Facebook for the most current schedule.