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St. Joseph, Mo. – When winter winds howl, some anglers remember summer by making their own lures for fishing with fly rods. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will offer a series of free fly-tying classes 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays, starting Jan. 7 and ending Feb. 4, at the MDC Northwest Regional Office.
The classes are free. Participants do not need to own their own fly-tying equipment and materials. But if they do and wish to use them in the classes, they are asked to indicate that when registering. Advance registration is required before Jan. 6. Class size is limited. Participants must be age 14 or older, those under age 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
"Students will make flies that catch fish as well as look good," said T.J. Peacher, MDC conservation education supervisor and a class instructor.
Fly tying is an art. Participants will learn a variety of techniques and styles for creating flies. These lures are often used for trout fishing, but they can be very effective for fish such as bass, crappie and bluegill, too.
A typical class will include two hours of work per night. The classroom will also be open an hour early if anyone needs extra practice or has questions.
The MDC Northwest Regional Office is at 701 James McCarthy Drive on the campus of Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph. For more information or to register, call 816-271-3100.
