Get angling tips and hook some fish at Oct. 23 MDC family program

JOPLIN, Mo. – Fishing provides great opportunities to connect with the outdoors and to bond with other family members.

People can learn more about fishing and have an opportunity to catch fish at the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) free event “Fishing Skills: Fish, Fillets, and Fun.” This program will be on Oct. 23 at MDC’s Walter Woods Conservation Area on the edge of Joplin in Newton County. Participants can sign up for either a morning or afternoon session. The morning program will be from 9-11 a.m. People can register for this time slot at

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/180300

The afternoon session will be from noon to 2 p.m. People can register for this at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/180304

Walter Woods Conservation Area is located at 7129 Dutch Elm Drive. This event is open to ages 8 and up and is designed for families. All participants must register separately.

MDC staff will share information on the basics of fishing, including techniques, strategies, species identification, and regulations. He will also talk about cleaning fish and preparing them for the table.

Participants will also have hands-on opportunities to catch fish at the Walter Woods Area’s educational pond. Fishing equipment and bait will be provided by MDC staff or people can bring their own equipment and bait. All participants ages 16-64 must have a valid Missouri fishing license. Social distancing and other COVID-19 precautionary measures will be encouraged.

Though this program is free, registration is required to participate. Use the link above. People wanting more information about this event or other upcoming MDC events in the Joplin area can call MDC’s Shoal Creek Conservation and Education Center at 417-629-3434.

Staff at MDC facilities across the state are holding in-person and virtual programs. A listing of these programs can be found at mdc.mo.gov/events.