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A monthly publication about conservation in Missouri. Started in 1938, the printed magazine is free to residents of Missouri.
St. Joseph, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) offers classes to help kids and families gain angling skills and confidence. MDC's free Discover Nature ̶ Fishing Program teaches participants about tackle, methods and where to go to catch fish.
MDC will offer a series of Discover Nature ̶ Fishing Programs in northwest Missouri this spring and summer. The classes are divided into four sessions. Each lesson also includes 50 minutes of fishing with tackle and bait provided by MDC. These classes are open to youth and families who desire to learn fishing basics or advanced skills. Each participant should be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required by calling 816-271-3100, and participants must register a week before the classes.
Fishing lessons will be held at the MDC Northwest Regional Office in St. Joseph in April and June. Obtain dates and times by calling to register.
Classes will be offered at MDC's Hartell Conservation Area near Plattsburg May 19-21.
MDC's Bilby Conservation Area near Maryville will host Discover Nature ̶ Fishing sessions June 23, 24 and 25.
MDC staff and volunteers will teach participants about fishing equipment, how to cast lures or bait with a rod and reel, proper fish handling, how to tie lures and hooks onto fishing line, how to bait a hook, the habitat and habits of five popular and common sport, how to fish with lures, and fishing regulations.
Discover Nature - Fishing will be an ongoing program statewide, so watch for notices of future sessions. Information about the program, including event schedules, is available at mdc.mo.gov/node/27175.
MDC also welcomes volunteer instructors to teach fishing skills to others. Anyone interested in volunteering to teach angling to youth can also call 816-271-3100.
Fishable waters are often found close to home, even in urban areas. Time and expense need not be barriers to going fishing. Tackle choices and methods can be simple and effective for catching fish. MDC's Discover Nature - Fishing Program is open to anyone who wishes to learn about the sport. Fishing is fun and gets people outdoors in fresh air and nature.
Missouri is a great place to fish. For more information on fishing and conservation see mdc.mo.gov.
