MDC invites youth, families to free fishing clinic in Kirksville

KIRKSVILLE, Mo. — The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites kids and their families to a free fishing workshop in Kirksville.  The Discover Nature – Fishing (DNF) workshop will cover the basics of fishing equipment, casting, and proper fish handling, and participants will gain the skills and confidence to go fishing on their own. 

This DNF class will take place from 9 – 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 8, at the MDC Northeast Regional Office, 3500 S. Baltimore St. in Kirksville.

“The Discover Nature – Fishing lessons are great classes for anyone wanting to learn how to fish,” said MDC Angler Education Assistant Chelsea Clever. “Regardless of age or experience level, MDC is here as a learning tool for anyone curious, who is interested in a free opportunity to learn.”

This clinic will take place during Missouri’s Free Fishing Weekend, June 8-9, so adult participants will not be required to purchase their fishing permits prior to the event. However, normal regulations still apply to fish lengths and possession limits.

“While these classes are for beginners, we do encourage families to attend and fish with us throughout the morning,” said Clever. “Fishing at the pond will be canceled in the event of lightning, but we will still try to fish if it is lightly raining.”

DNF programs focus primarily on reaching kids 6 – 15 years of age and emphasize family involvement.  All children must be accompanied by an adult and all participants must preregister by visiting mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/167774.

All DNF classes are free for registered participants and MDC will provide all needed fishing equipment and supplies.  Participants should wear solid-bottomed shoes capable of getting wet or muddy, and bring their own bug repellent and sunscreen if they wish.

For more information about DNF classes, contact Clever at Chelsea.Clever@mdc.mo.gov, or (573) 248-2530, ext. 6377.