Discover Nature – Fishing Lessons
Lesson 1: Learn the parts and function of a spin cast fishing rod and reel, plus how to cast safely and successfully. Also, learn how to fasten basic tackle to a fishing line and 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 their family intermediate fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure bait on hooks.
Lesson 3: “Five Common Missouri Fish – Their Anatomy, Habitat, and Life Cycle” combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and their family 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 their family 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 aged 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 always accompany their child/children.
Participants must have completed Lessons 1 and 2 prior to attending Lessons 3 and 4. Participants do NOT need a fishing permit to fish during this program.
Please note: Participants will be able to take what they learned and go fishing. Each participant must register for this program individually.
To register: Go online at www.mdc.mo.gov and hover over the “Fishing” tab at the top, and then click on “Discover Nature Fishing.” For additional information or questions, contact LuAnn Conway at (573) 325-1381, ext. 6036.
Schedule for July 2024:
Thursday, July 11 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Miller Lake – Van Buren, Mo. Lessons 1 & 2
Friday, July 12 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Miller Lake – Van Buren, Mo. Lessons 3 & 4
Thursday, July 18 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Sims Valley Lake – Willow Springs, Mo. Lessons 1 & 2
Friday, July 19 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Sims Valley Lake – Willow Springs, Mo. Lessons 3 & 4