Fishing Classes

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Adult and two children fishing on edge of lake
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Free Hands-On Instruction

Fishing is a great way for everyone to have fun outdoors, learn about conservation, and make happy memories together. Our Discover Nature — Fishing Program helps Missourians gain the skills and confidence to go fishing on their own.

  • Classes are free.
  • No special equipment needed — we’ll provide all the gear.

More advanced classes can be found on the list below and on the Fishing Events page.

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Discover Nature–Fishing event
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Fishing Classes

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Displaying 1 - 25 of 30
Registration period: March 19 - April 6
Date: Thursday, April 6, 2023 5:30 pm - Thursday, April 6, 2023 8:00 pm
Location: Prairie Hollow Lake, James A. Reed MWA

"Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 2". April 6th, 5:30pm - 8:00pm. Location, Prairie Hollow Educational Lake, Greenwood, MO 64034.

Lesson 2: How to Tie a Knot and Bait a Hook combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach anglers intermediate fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn to tie an improved clinch knot, how to rig fishing tackle and how to properly secure bait on hooks. Fishing equipment, instructors/coaches and bait/lures will be provided.

Participants do NOT need a fishing permit to fish during this program.

All participants must register separately. Please contact program instructor for assistance with registration.

Lesson 2 is part of the Discover Nature-Fishing Lesson series. Lesson 2 is appropriate for adults and families with children ages 7 and older. Participants who attend all four of the Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will receive their choice of several fishing themed appreciation gifts from the Missouri Department of Conservation.

Registration period: March 20 - April 8
Date: Saturday, April 8, 2023 8:00 am - Saturday, April 8, 2023 12:00 pm
Location: MDC Kansas City Regional Office

Join us for a crappie fishing lesson and fishing opportunity on Saturday morning, April 8th, 8:00am - 11:30am at the Kansas City Regional Conservation Office Classroom and Gopher Lake. We'll start the morning off at the Regional Conservation Office Classroom where participants will learn how to catch crappie during all seasons and in all conditions. We'll discuss fishing methods, techniques, gear and tackle.

Then we'll head out on the area to Plover Lake for a hands on opportunity to try and catch some hungry crappie.

Fishing permits are not required for participants to fish during this clinic. Missouri Department of Conservation will provide all equipment, tackle and bait.

Each participant must register for this clinic separately. Contact instructor for assistance with registration. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult at all times during this clinic.

Please dress for the weather.
Registration period: March 8 - April 11
Date: Wednesday, April 12, 2023 9:30 am - Wednesday, April 12, 2023 11:00 am
Location: Clinton MDC Office

Spring is here and the crappie are biting! Tying your own crappie jigs is a fun and easy way to add to your tackle selection. You will learn how to use fly tying equipment, basic tying skills, and then tie a couple of crappie jigs. MDC will provide participants with a vise and tool kit to use during the class, along with all of the materials needed to make a couple of crappie jigs. If you have your own vise and tools, you are more than welcome to bring them to use.

Registration period: March 8 - April 11
Date: Wednesday, April 12, 2023 12:30 pm - Wednesday, April 12, 2023 2:00 pm
Location: Clinton MDC Office

Spring is here and the crappie are biting! Tying your own crappie jigs is a fun and easy way to add to your tackle selection. You will learn how to use fly tying equipment, basic tying skills, and then tie a couple of crappie jigs. MDC will provide participants with a vise and tool kit to use during the class, along with all of the materials needed to make a couple of crappie jigs. If you have your own vise and tools, you are more than welcome to bring them to use.

Registration period: March 8 - April 11
Date: Thursday, April 13, 2023 9:30 am - Thursday, April 13, 2023 11:00 am
Location: Clinton MDC Office

Spring is here and the crappie are biting! Tying your own crappie jigs is a fun and easy way to add to your tackle selection. You will learn how to use fly tying equipment, basic tying skills, and then tie a couple of crappie jigs. MDC will provide participants with a vise and tool kit to use during the class, along with all of the materials needed to make a couple of crappie jigs. If you have your own vise and tools, you are more than welcome to bring them to use.

Registration period: March 8 - April 11
Date: Thursday, April 13, 2023 12:30 pm - Thursday, April 13, 2023 2:00 pm
Location: Clinton MDC Office

Spring is here and the crappie are biting! Tying your own crappie jigs is a fun and easy way to add to your tackle selection. You will learn how to use fly tying equipment, basic tying skills, and then tie a couple of crappie jigs. MDC will provide participants with a vise and tool kit to use during the class, along with all of the materials needed to make a couple of crappie jigs. If you have your own vise and tools, you are more than welcome to bring them to use.

Registration period: April 10 - April 13
Date: Saturday, April 15, 2023 8:00 am - Saturday, April 15, 2023 1:00 pm
Location: Warsaw Community Building Harbor Room

Registration required. CALL 660-530-5500 TO REGISTER. REGISTRATION BEGINS MARCH 8 at 8:00am. Participants 17 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Only open to first time participants.

Participants will learn about conservation efforts with paddlefish, techniques for snagging and go out snagging on Lake of the Ozarks for 2-hours.

For more information email Trish.Yasger@mdc.mo.gov
Registration period: April 10 - April 13
Date: Saturday, April 15, 2023 10:30 am - Saturday, April 15, 2023 3:00 pm
Location: Warsaw Community Building Harbor Room

Registration required. CALL 660-530-5500 TO REGISTER. REGISTRATION BEGINS MARCH 8 at 8:00am. Participants 17 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Only open to first time participants.

Participants will learn about conservation efforts with paddlefish, techniques for snagging and go out snagging on Lake of the Ozarks for 2-hours.

For more information email Trish.Yasger@mdc.mo.gov
Registration period: March 19 - April 20
Date: Thursday, April 20, 2023 5:30 pm - Thursday, April 20, 2023 8:00 pm
Location: Prairie Hollow Lake, James A. Reed MWA

"Discover Nature Fishing Lessons 3&4" April 20th, 5:30pm - 8:00pm. Location, Prairie Hollow Educational Lake, Greenwood, MO 64034

Lesson 3&4 combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach anglers intermediate fishing techniques and skills.

lesson 3: Five Common Missouri Fish and how they relate to their environments and habitat. Lesson 4: Fishing with artificial lures and fishing regulations combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach anglers how to properly select a fishing lure based on desired fish species, weather and water conditions. In addition, participants will learn how to identify and understand fishing regulations. Fishing equipment, instructors/coaches and bait/lures will be provided. Participants must have completed Lessons 1 and 2 prior to attending Lesson 3 & 4.

Equipment, bait and fishing coaches will be provided.

Participants DO NOT need a fishing permit to fish during this program.

Each participant must register for this program individually on the Missouri Department of Conservation Discover Fishing website.

Lesson 3 & 4 are part of the Discover Nature-Fishing Lesson series. Lesson 3 & 4 are appropriate for adults and families with children ages 7 and older.

Participants who attend all four of the Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will receive their choice of several fishing themed appreciation gifts from the Missouri Department of Conservation.

Registration period: March 28 - April 24
Date: Monday, April 24, 2023 3:00 pm - Monday, April 24, 2023 5:00 pm
Location: Sims Valley Lake

Lesson 1: Learn the parts and function of a spin cast fishing rod and reel. How to cast safely and successfully. How to fasten basic tackle to a fishing line. Learn techniques to catch fish and handle it properly.

Lesson 2: How to Tie a Knot and Bait a Hook combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families intermediate fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure bait on hooks.

Participants will be able to take what they learned and go fishing.

Fishing equipment, instructors/coaches and bait/lures will be provided.

Each participant must register for this program individually.
Registration period: March 28 - April 25
Date: Tuesday, April 25, 2023 3:00 pm - Tuesday, April 25, 2023 5:00 pm
Location: Sims Valley Lake

Five Common Missouri Fish - Their Anatomy, Habitat, and Life Cycle. Fishing with Lures and Fishing Regulations. You must take Discover Nature - Fishing Lesson 1 and 2 before you can take this class.

Additional Information:

Lesson 3: Five Common Missouri Fish-Their Anatomy, Habitat, and Life Cycle combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families basic biological concepts and functions specific to largemouth bass, bluegill, hybrid sunfish, channel catfish and rainbow trout. Participants will learn the different components of fish anatomy and their functions. In addition, participants will learn about various types of fish habitat and aquatic food webs. Lesson 4: Fishing with Lures and Fishing Regulations combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families how to properly select a fishing lure based on desired fish species, weather and water conditions. In addition, participants will learn how to identify and understand fishing regulations.

Participants are limited to anglers ages 7 and up. We encourage the entire family to participate. Fishing equipment, instructors/coaches and bait/lures will be provided. Adults who do not wish to fish must accompany their child(ren) at all times. Participants must have completed Lessons 1 and 2 prior to attending Lessons 3 & 4. Participants do NOT need a fishing permit to fish during this program. For additional information or questions contact LuAnn Conway at (573) 325-1381 ext. 6031.
Registration period: January 18 - May 2
Date: Tuesday, May 2, 2023 6:30 pm - Tuesday, May 2, 2023 8:00 pm
Location: Online only

Muskie Fishing Program – Virtual Program

Did you know the Missouri Department of Conservation stocks Muskie in Fellow’s Lake just north of Springfield? Do you want to learn basic Muskie fishing methods? This hands-on workshop is for YOU! MDC Conservation Educator Lyle Whittaker is partnering with the Watershed Committee of the Ozarks, Springfield Utilities, and the Pomme D Terre Muskie Inc. to offer this unique opportunity for anglers who want to give muskie fishing a try! The workshop has multiple parts. A virtual program on May 2nd will be followed by an in-person fishing session. Anglers registered and attending the in-person fishing event on May 5th are highly encouraged to attend the virtual program! 12 anglers will be allowed to register for the in-person fishing event to be held May 5th (7:00am-11:30am). We will be casting and trolling for muskie but remember Fellow’s Lake holds a healthy population of walleyes as well (that’s why it is called fishing!) Anglers attending should have at least some experiences in casting and operating a spinning reel. All equipment and supplies will be provided by MDC. However, anglers are welcome to bring their own poles, tackle, and PFD (Personal Floatation Device.) All participants must possess a current Missouri fishing permit (if not exempt.)

Topics covered in the virtual program

- Muskie biology

- Regulations

- Equipment and tackle

- Methods of fishing for muskie

May 5th in-person on the lake fishing event

- 4 hours of muskie fishing

- Casting and trolling

Registration is required for both the virtual program and the in-person event. Registration is separate on the MDC events page. Events | Missouri Department of Conservation (mo.gov) For more information or questions contact Lyle Whittaker (417)895-6880 Ext. 1644 or email Lyle.whittaker@mdc.mo.gov

Registration period: March 27 - May 4
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 3:00 pm - Thursday, May 4, 2023 5:30 pm
Location: Shawnee Mac Lakes Conservation Area

Lesson 1: Learn the parts and function of a spin cast fishing rod and reel. How to cast safely and successfully. How to fasten basic tackle to a fishing line. Learn techniques to catch fish and handle it properly.

Lesson 2: How to Tie a Knot and Bait a Hook combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families intermediate fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure bait on hooks.

Participants will be able to take what they learned and go fishing.

Fishing equipment, instructors/coaches and bait/lures will be provided.

Each participant must register for this program individually.
Registration period: March 27 - May 5
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 3:00 pm - Friday, May 5, 2023 5:30 pm
Location: Shawnee Mac Lakes Conservation Area

Lesson 1: Learn the parts and function of a spin cast fishing rod and reel. How to cast safely and successfully. How to fasten basic tackle to a fishing line. Learn techniques to catch fish and handle it properly.

Lesson 2: How to Tie a Knot and Bait a Hook combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families intermediate fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure bait on hooks.

Participants will be able to take what they learned and go fishing.

Fishing equipment, instructors/coaches and bait/lures will be provided.

Each participant must register for this program individually.
Registration period: March 20 - May 13
Date: Saturday, May 13, 2023 10:00 am - Saturday, May 13, 2023 2:00 pm
Location: MDC Northwest Regional Office
Discover Nature Fishing Lessons 1-4. Come join the Missouri Department of Conservation in are learning the fishing basics. This fishing event is made to teach all of the fishing basic then take what you learned and practice those skills by going fishing after the lessons are completed. All registered participants will be able to take home some fishing equipment like tackleboxes, fishing poles, etc. on completion of all four lessons. All participants between the age 16-64 are required to have a valid fishing license. Participants outside that age range are not required to have a fishing license.
Registration period: March 21 - May 15
Date: Monday, May 15, 2023 5:00 pm - Monday, May 15, 2023 7:00 pm
Location: Ronald and Maude Hartell Conservation Area
Join the Missouri Department of Conservation on learning the fishing basics. This event will cover DNF Lessons 1-2 and will have a following event the next day covering the remaining two lessons. Upon completion of all 4 lessons every registered participant will be able to take home some fishing equipment. All participants that are 16-64 years of age will require a valid fishing license. Participants outside the age range do not require a fishing license.
Registration period: March 21 - May 16
Date: Tuesday, May 16, 2023 5:00 pm - Tuesday, May 16, 2023 7:00 pm
Location: Ronald and Maude Hartell Conservation Area
Join the Missouri Department of Conservation on learning the fishing basics. This event will cover DNF Lessons 3 and 4. Upon completion of all 4 lessons every registered participant will be able to take home some fishing equipment. All participants that are 16-64 years of age will require a valid fishing license. Participants outside the age range do not require a fishing license.
Registration period: February 28 - May 19
Date: Saturday, May 20, 2023 10:00 am - Saturday, May 20, 2023 12:00 pm
Location: Bois D' Arc Aquatic Education Pond

Lesson 1: Equipment, Casting and Proper Fish Handling combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families basic fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn how to properly and safely cast a spincast fishing rod, parts of a fishing rod, how to fasten basic fishing tackle and how to properly handle and release a fish.

Lesson 2: How to Tie a Knot and Bait a Hook combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families intermediate fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure bait on hooks.

All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities.

Each participant will need to register for this program individually. 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.

For questions or help registering, please contact Jeanell Stockton @ jeanell.stockton@mdc.mo.gov or 417-737-0698

Registration period: March 27 - May 22
Date: Monday, May 22, 2023 8:00 am - Monday, May 22, 2023 10:30 am
Location: Bray (Marguerite) Conservation Area

Lesson 1: Learn the parts and function of a spin cast fishing rod and reel. How to cast safely and successfully. How to fasten basic tackle to a fishing line. Learn techniques to catch fish and handle it properly.

Lesson 2: How to Tie a Knot and Bait a Hook combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families intermediate fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure bait on hooks.

Participants will be able to take what they learned and go fishing.

Fishing equipment, instructors/coaches and bait/lures will be provided.

Each participant must register for this program individually.
Registration period: March 27 - May 23
Date: Tuesday, May 23, 2023 8:00 am - Tuesday, May 23, 2023 10:30 am
Location: Bray (Marguerite) Conservation Area

Five Common Missouri Fish - Their Anatomy, Habitat, and Life Cycle. Fishing with Lures and Fishing Regulations. You must take Discover Nature - Fishing Lesson 1 and 2 before you can take this class.

Additional Information:

Lesson 3: Five Common Missouri Fish-Their Anatomy, Habitat, and Life Cycle combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families basic biological concepts and functions specific to largemouth bass, bluegill, hybrid sunfish, channel catfish and rainbow trout. Participants will learn the different components of fish anatomy and their functions. In addition, participants will learn about various types of fish habitat and aquatic food webs. Lesson 4: Fishing with Lures and Fishing Regulations combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families how to properly select a fishing lure based on desired fish species, weather and water conditions. In addition, participants will learn how to identify and understand fishing regulations.

Participants are limited to anglers ages 7 and up. We encourage the entire family to participate. Fishing equipment, instructors/coaches and bait/lures will be provided. Adults who do not wish to fish must accompany their child(ren) at all times. Participants must have completed Lessons 1 and 2 prior to attending Lessons 3 & 4. Participants do NOT need a fishing permit to fish during this program. For additional information or questions contact LuAnn Conway at (573) 325-1381 ext. 6031.
Registration period: March 23 - May 22
Date: Tuesday, May 23, 2023 6:00 pm - Tuesday, May 23, 2023 7:00 pm
Location: Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center
This virtual program will provide an opportunity to learn and ask questions about Urban Fishing in the St. Louis area. During the 45-minute program we will discuss the following topics: What lakes are part of the urban fishing program, where, when, and how many fish were stocked, where to borrow fishing equipment, and who needs a fishing permit. You must register to attend and provide a valid email to receive a link to join the virtual program. the link will be sent out the morning of the program.
Registration period: March 24 - May 26
Date: Friday, May 26, 2023 5:30 pm - Friday, May 26, 2023 7:00 pm
Location: Cape Girardeau Nature Center

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 the Discover Nature-Fishing Lessons 1 and 2, which are best completed before Lessons 3 and 4 (hosted later). Participants will learn about fishing equipment, casting, rigging a fishing rod, baiting a hook, and proper fish handling. The Discover Nature-Fishing program is available for ages 7 and up. This program will take place at Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center. Participants will not be required to have a valid fishing license for this program.

Registration period: March 6 - April 30
Date: Thursday, June 1, 2023 3:30 pm - Thursday, June 1, 2023 5:30 pm
Location: James Youth Center

Join us at the Rothwell Park boat dock for a family friendly fishing opportunity. MDC will be present so no fishing license is required for this event, and fishing poles and bait will be provided.

Lessons on casting, fish handling, and how to tie and bait a hook will be available by our staff.

Parent/Guardian supervision is required.
Registration period: March 6 - June 7
Date: Thursday, June 8, 2023 3:30 pm - Thursday, June 8, 2023 5:30 pm
Location: James Youth Center

Join us at the Rothwell Park boat dock for a family friendly fishing opportunity. MDC will be present so no fishing license is required for this event, and fishing poles and bait will be provided.

Lessons on casting, fish handling, and how to tie and bait a hook will be available by our staff.

Parent/Guardian supervision is required.
Registration period: April 15 - June 12
Date: Thursday, June 15, 2023 10:00 am - Thursday, June 15, 2023 12:00 pm
Location: Bellefontaine Conservation Area
This fishing program will include all the basics of fishing including casting, fish identification, and proper fish handling. Please meet at the pavilion located at the Bellefontaine Conservation Area. Ages 6 and up, participants under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants 16 and over who plan to fish will need a valid fishing license which can be purchased here https://mdc-web.s3licensing.com/.