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CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) announces a four-part Discover Nature Fishing series for youth ages 7 to 15 at its Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center. According to MDC Angler Education Assistant Michael Collins, who leads the Discover Nature Fishing programs, the series is intended to take participants through all the steps of fishing so they emerge as competent anglers, ready to enjoy a lifetime of fishing.
"Fishing is an excellent way for children and families to truly enjoy the outdoors together, learn about conservation, and make memories that will last a lifetime," Collins said.
Each lesson in the series will build on the previous one, so participants will need to attend the series from the beginning, Collins said. Lesson one will cover necessary fishing equipment and proper casting and fish handling. Lesson two will focus on tying knots and baiting hooks. In lesson three participants will learn to identify five common Missouri fish with knowledge of the anatomy, habitat and life cycles of the species. Lesson four will consist of learning fishing regulations with demonstrations of the use of fishing lures.
Collins said there will be two opportunities to catch the first lesson, March 28 from 9 to 11 a.m. and April 15 from 5 to 7 p.m. The event is free, but participants are asked to pre-register for the Discover Nature Fishing lessons beginning March 3 by calling (573) 290-5218. All equipment will be provided.
For more information on these and other nature programs at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center, go online to mdc.mo.gov/CapeNatureCenter.
