MDC to host fly fishing workshops this February in Phelps County

ROLLA, Mo. — The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will host a series of fly fishing workshops in Phelps County this February. These FREE Discover Nature – Fishing (DNF) workshops will include Introduction to Fly Fishing, Match the Hatch, and Learning How to Tie Your Own Flies.

• Introduction to Fly Fishing
  Saturday, Feb. 1, 1 - 3:30 p.m.
  Bray Conservation Area, 14220 Bridge School Road, Rolla
  Introductory workshop for those who wish to explore fly fishing, how to properly cast under various conditions, or simply improve their skills. Workshop will cover basic equipment and practice casting techniques on dry land and open pond water.
  Registration required at: mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/171396.
• Match the Hatch
  Saturday, Feb. 8, 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
  Maramec Spring Hatchery, 21304 Maramec Spring Drive, St. James
  Learn to understand what’s going on in the water and match lure presentation to macroinvertebrates present in the environment.  Participants should bring a packed lunch and prepare to spend the day outdoors.
  Registration required at: mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/171397.
• Learning How to Tie Your Own Flies
  Saturday, Feb. 15, 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
  Maramec Spring Hatchery, 21304 Maramec Spring Drive, St. James
  This workshop will provide the tools and expert coaching to create up to three different types of flies, and take home about nine total flies. Participants will have an opportunity to test their flies in a stream onsite at the end of the program. Participants should bring a packed lunch, knee/hip boots, and prepare to spend the afternoon outdoors.
  Registration required at: mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/171398.

All courses are free and open to participants age 16 and older, and all equipment will be provided at no cost. Space is limited and online registration is required for each workshop.  For more information about this series of workshops, contact MDC Conservation Educator Dwight Warnke at (573) 368-2225 or Dwight.Warnke@mdc.mo.gov. 

Fishing is a great way for everyone to have fun outdoors, learn about conservation, and make memories in nature. DNF programs help Missourians gain the skills and confidence to go fishing on their own. Find more information on DNF programs and other events near you at: huntfish.mdc.mo.gov/fishing/get-started-fishing/discover-nature-fishing.