Events

Lesson 1: Learn the parts and function of a spin cast fishing rod and reel. How to cast safely and successfully. How to fasten basic tackle to a fishing line. Learn techniques to catch fish and handle it properly.

Lesson 2: How to Tie a Knot and Bait a Hook combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families intermediate fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure bait on hooks.

Participants will be able to take what they learned and go fishing.

Five Common Missouri Fish - Their Anatomy, Habitat, and Life Cycle. Fishing with Lures and Fishing Regulations. You must take Discover Nature - Fishing Lesson 1 and 2 before you can take this class.

Additional Information:

Lesson 3: Five Common Missouri Fish-Their Anatomy, Habitat, and Life Cycle combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and their families basic biological concepts and functions specific to largemouth bass, bluegill, hybrid sunfish, channel catfish and rainbow trout. Participants will learn the different components of fish anatomy and their functions. In addition, participants will learn about various types of fish habitat and aquatic food webs. Lesson 4: Fishing with Lures and Fishing Regulations combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families how to properly select a fishing lure based on desired fish species, weather and water conditions. In addition, participants will learn how to identify and understand fishing regulations.

Participants are limited to anglers ages 7 and up. We encourage the entire family to participate. Fishing equipment, instructors/coaches and bait/lures will be provided. Adults who do not wish to fish must accompany their child(ren) at all times. Participants must have completed Lessons 1 and 2 prior to attending Lessons 3 & 4. Participants do NOT need a fishing permit to fish during this program. For additional information or questions contact LuAnn Conway at (573) 325-1381 ext. 6036

Introduction to Stream Kayaking: July 13 on the Big Piney River between Six Crossings (50.0 river mileage marker) to Big Piney River bridge (54.5 river mileage marker). Participants will meet at Big Piney River Bridge and be shuttled to starting point at Six Crossings access point. Must arrive at Big Piney Bridge by 8:50 am to get shuttled to starting point. Directions to Big Piney Bridge: From Duke, take Route K west to Western Road then across Big Piney Bridge and turn right to gravel bar.

Participants will learn information and safety about kayaking during a ground school portion of the class, then take to kayaking the river. Participants aged 13 and older are welcome to register; those aged younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants should bring a hat, sun screen, insect repellant, extra water, and lunch. Food and water is not available for purchase nor will be provided. A dry bag is recommended for personal gear. Fishing poles will be provided if you wish to experience fishing from a kayak the later portion of the program; participants 16 and older must possess a valid fishing permit if you choose to fish.

Kayaks, paddles, and life-jackets will be provided. Close-toed shoes are required.

Flatwater Kayaking: July 18th at the boat ramp located within Rinquelin Trail Lake Conservation Area

Join us for an evening on the water for a basic flatwater kayaking program. Participants will learn information and safety about kayaking during a ground school portion of the class, then take to the water for paddling instruction and practice. Participants aged 13 and older are welcome to register; those aged younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Fishing poles will be provided if you wish to experience fishing from a kayak the later portion of the program; participants 16 and older must possess a valid fishing permit if you choose to fish.

Kayaks, paddles, and life-jackets will be provided. Close-toed shoes are required.

Introduction to Stream Kayaking: July 20 on the Meramec River between MDC Woodson K. Woods River Access (28.2 river mileage marker) to Scotts Ford Access (35.1 river mileage marker). Participants will meet at MDC Scotts Ford Access and be shuttled to starting point on MDC Woodson K. Woods access point. Must arrive at Scotts Ford by 8:50 am to get shuttled to starting point.

Participants will learn information and safety about kayaking during a ground school portion of the class, then take to kayaking the river. Participants aged 13 and older are welcome to register; those aged younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants should bring a hat, sun screen, insect repellant, extra water, and lunch. Food and water is not available for purchase nor will be provided. A dry bag is recommended for personal gear. Fishing poles will be provided if you wish to experience fishing from a kayak the later portion of the program; participants 16 and older must possess a valid fishing permit if you choose to fish. The stretch we are floating is a trophy area, no soft plastic lures, dough bait, worms, only hard plastics like rooster tails and crank baits.

Kayaks, paddles, and life-jackets will be provided. Close-toed shoes are required.

Join us for a family fishing day in the park! Fishing poles, tackle, bait, and instruction will be provided. This is a great opportunity for anyone you know who is interested in fishing but does not have the gear to do so. Anyone is welcome. Stop by to grab a fishing pole and start fishing!

Please contact Community Education Assistant Lance Lewis with any questions: Lance.Lewis@mdc.mo.gov