Fishing Events

Fishing is a great way for kids and families to have fun outdoors, learn about conservation, and make happy memories. Our Discover Nature-Fishing program is a hands-on, four-part fishing instruction series that helps families gain the skills and confidence they need to go fishing on their own.

This program will cover Lessons 3 and 4 which are best completed after Lessons 1 and 2 (hosted 9/3). Participants will learn about Missouri freshwater ecosystems, common fish, artificial lures, and the regulations regarding fishing in Missouri. The Discover Nature-Fishing program is available for ages 7 and up. We will host this program at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center. Participants will not be required to have a valid fishing license and those who have already completed Lessons 1 and 2 will receive fishing related rewards.

Discover Nature – Fishing Lesson 2 Description:

*Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 is required before attending this program*

Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 2

Participants will learn intermediate fishing techniques and skills. This includes how to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure a variety of baits to various types of hooks.

All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen.

This class is for 7 years old and up. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. You must complete Lesson 1 before any others.

To register your child, you may need to make a family account or add them to an existing family account. You can also make your child their own separate account using your same email, just a different username.

Please meet at Lake 2

This is the third annual fly fishing extravaganza!

Folks that are new or novice fly fishing anglers will have a full day of experiences that will leave them with confidence when they hit the water. This course will cover everything from tying flies, to equipment options, methods for safe catch and release, as well as several types of casting.

Dress for the outdoors, bring sunscreen, a camp chair, water, and snacks. We recommend bringing along a sack lunch, but there are nearby fast food options available if you forget.

*Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 is required before attending this program*

Participants will learn intermediate fishing techniques and skills. This includes how to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure a variety of baits to various types of hooks.

All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen.

This class is for everyone 7 years old and up. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Every person planning to attend must be registered separately.

All participants who complete all four Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing on your own. You must complete Lesson 1 before any others.

Please meet at Forest Park Hatchery.

To register additional family members, you may need to make a group account or add them to an existing group account. You can also create an additional account for them using your same email, with a different username. Please contact the instructor with any issues related to registration. Non-registered participants may not be able to participate in the program.

Veterans fish for free at Montauk State Park on Saturday, September 12, 2026. Veterans can pick up their free fishing tag the day of the event at the Dorman Steelman Lodge in Montauk State Park. The spring branch will be reserved for veterans and their family members only. Hooked on Vets will be providing assistance and attendance prizes. Lunch will be provided. Tagged fish will be stocked with prizes available as well.

Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 2

*You must attend Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 (Equipment, Casting, & Proper Fish Handling) before attending this class.

*A current, valid fishing permit is encouraged for all participants ages 16–64.*

Participants will learn intermediate fishing techniques and skills. This includes how to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure a variety of baits to various types of hooks.

All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen.

All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. You must complete Lesson 1 before any others.

This class is for everyone 7 years old and up. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Every person planning to attend must be registered separately.

To register additional family members, you may need to make a group account or add them to an existing group account. You can also create an additional account for them sharing your same email and phone # but using unique individual usernames and passwords. Please contact the instructor with any issues related to registration. Non-registered participants may not be able to participate in the program.

Please meet at the Suson Park “Rearing Pond” at the north end of the park.

If the class must be canceled for any reason, including weather, registrants will receive an email notification 24 hours in advance.

Family fishing is all about turning a simple day by water into an adventure. Learn how to bait, cast, and safely release fish as you step away from the daily rush, breathe in fresh air, and share the fun of reeling in that first big catch together. No experience? No problem. Our naturalist team will guide you every step of the way. There will be two sessions available. Please select the session you prefer to attend and register each member of your family individually.

Family fishing is all about turning a simple day by water into an adventure. Learn how to bait, cast, and safely release fish as you step away from the daily rush, breathe in fresh air, and share the fun of reeling in that first big catch together. No experience? No problem. Our naturalist team will guide you every step of the way. There will be two sessions available. Please select the session you prefer to attend and register each member of your family individually.

Discover Nature – Fishing Lesson 3 & 4 Description:

*Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 is required before attending this program*

In the Lesson 3 portion, participants will learn about aquatic habitats, food webs, and the basic biology of common Missouri fish species.

In the Lesson 4 portion, participants will learn about various fishing lures and techniques, as well as identify and understand Missouri fishing regulations.

All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen.

This class is for 7 years old and up. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. You must complete Lesson 1 before any others.

To register your child, you may need to make a family account or add them to an existing family account. You can also make your child their own separate account using your same email, just a different username.

Please meet at Lake 2

Fishing is all about slowing down, getting outside, and making simple, lasting memories together. Whether you’re casting a line off a quiet dock or sitting along the shoreline, fishing is an easy, low-pressure way for families to connect with nature—and each other. You don’t need fancy gear or expert skills to get started; just a bit of patience, a sense of curiosity, and a willingness to enjoy the moment. Along the way, adults learn valuable lessons about wildlife, responsibility, and the thrill of reeling in the catch.