Trout Derby in Sedalia Feb. 2

SEDALIA Mo - Sedalia’s winter trout fishing program will be celebrated Feb. 2 with a Trout Derby at Liberty Park Pond.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) last fall stocked 1,300 rainbow trout 10- 13-inches long in the pond. Also stocked were 12 lunker-sized trout from hatchery brood stock. Only catch-and-release fishing is allowed through January.

But on Feb. 1, anglers can begin keeping trout if they have a valid fishing license, if required by age, and a $7 Missouri Trout Permit. The winter fishing program is a partnership between MDC and the Sedalia Parks and Recreation Department.

The 5th annual Trout Derby is co-sponsored by the Liberty Park Trout Association.

The derby is set for noon to 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 2, because it’s an early dismissal day for Sedalia public schools, said Tim Vuagniaux, president of the association. Veteran anglers are welcome, but association members and MDC personnel hope also to introduce some newcomers to the sport.

“It’s usually a lot of fun, and hopefully people can learn a little more about trout fishing,” Vuagniaux said.

Anglers age 15 years and younger will be in the youth group and can register for free. Trophies will be given for the three longest trout. Rods and reels provided by MDC will be available for use by those who don’t have their own gear.

Registration is $2 for anglers 16 and older. One trophy will be given for the biggest fish in the senior bracket.

All participants in both age brackets must have the Missouri Trout Permit.

The person catching the longest trout of the day will get their fish mounted for free by a taxidermist. Free refreshments will be provided to registered participants. Demonstrations on fly fishing and fly tying will be given.

Most anglers at the event use spin-fishing gear and natural or prepared baits, Vuagniaux said.

“We’ll give them tips on how to catch trout,” he said.

For more information, call 660-530-5500.