Fishing is a great way for people to enjoy nature, especially children. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is offering a new program to help kids and families gain angling skills and confidence. MDC’s Discover Nature – Fishing Program is free and teaches participants about fishing tackle, methods and where to go.
Discover Nature – Fishing will be offered in the Kansas City area as a series of four lessons. The two-hour class sessions will cover all aspects of fishing. They include:
· Lesson one: Equipment, casting and proper fish handling.
· Lesson two: How to tie a knot and bait a hook.
· Lesson three: Five common Missouri fish – their anatomy, habitat and life cycle.
· Lesson four: Fishing with lures and fishing regulations.
The lessons currently offered will be at the Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center in Blue Springs. Lessons one and two will be presented 6 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, July 22. Lesson three will be presented 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, July 24. These sessions are limited to the first 25 people to register. Participants may register by calling 816-622-0900.
Discover Nature – Fishing is an ongoing program statewide. MDC also welcomes volunteer instructors to teach fishing skills to others. Those interested in volunteering may also call MDC’s Kansas City Regional Office at 816-622-0900.
Fishable waters are often found close to home, even in urban areas. Time and expense need not be barriers to going fishing. Tackle choices and methods can be simple and effective for catching fish. MDC’s Discover Nature – Fishing Program is open to anyone who wishes to learn about the sport. Fishing is fun and gets people outdoors in fresh air and nature.
One advantage, Missouri is a great place to fish. For more information on fishing and conservation see http://www.mdc.mo.gov.
Upcoming Classes:
Family Fishing, July 19 Fishing basics and family practice
Discover Nature – Fishing, July 22 Lesson 1: Equipment, Casting and Proper Fish Handling and Lesson 2: How to Tie a Knot and Bait a Hook
Discover Nature – Fishing, July 24 Lesson 3: Five Common Missouri Fish-Their Anatomy, Habitat and Life