Match the hatch like a pro during MDC’s one-day workshop at Maramec Spring Park

St. James, Mo. – Ever been on the river and no one is catching anything except for that one lone angler? Find out what’s going on in the water so you can match the lure to macroinvertebrates in the environment during Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Match the Hatch and Fly-Tying Workshop from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 29 at Maramec Spring Park.

“Participants will do macroinvertebrate sampling and comparison to standard fly-fishing flies during the morning and learn how to tie flies in the afternoon,” said workshop instructor and MDC Conservation Educator Dwight Warnke.

Space is limited to 10 participants, and all must be age 16 or older. Advance registration is required and can be completed online here.

Participants will be provided the tools and expert coaching by MDC staff and Roubidoux Fly Fishers Association members to create up to three different flies to take home. Those wishing to try their new flies within a trout stream the final hour of the workshop must possess the required daily trout fishing tag.

Warnke said instruction and equipment are provided by MDC at no cost during the workshop, but individuals may bring their own fly-fishing equipment if they wish.

Participants will meet at the museum within the park and are encouraged to bring their own lunch, snacks, knee/hip boots. Please be prepared to be outside from 10-11:30 am and 4-5 p.m. on Jan. 29.

All family members that plan to attend must be registered. To ensure the safety of all, in-person programs require family groups to socially distance, and masks are recommended. Those interested are reminded to follow current health recommendations which include stay home if you’re sick, wash hands with soap and water and/or use hand sanitizer, and be considerate of others.

Maramec Spring Park is located six miles south of St. James, Mo., on HWY 8.