Stay in Touch with MDC news, newsletters, events, and manage your subscription
Xplor reconnects kids to nature and helps them find adventure in their own backyard. Free to residents of Missouri.
A monthly publication about conservation in Missouri. Started in 1938, the printed magazine is free to residents of Missouri.
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Fishing is a great way to connect families with the outdoors. It’s a great tool to introduce children to healthier lifestyles and it’s a good activity for strengthening family bonds. These are some of the many benefits of the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Discover Nature Fishing program.
Registration is currently underway for MDC’s Discover Nature Fishing Camp in June and July at the Springfield-Greene County Park Board’s Rutledge-Wilson Farm Community Park (3825 W. Farm Road 146). This event is structured as four three-hour classes that will take place June 16, June 23, July 14 and July 21. The classes are for youths ages 7-15, but the program’s true focus is on families. Youths must be accompanied by an adult to take part in the class. People can register and participate as entire families. Class topics are:
Class 1: June 16 – Equipment, casting, proper fish handling
Class 2: June 23 – How to tie a knot and bait a hook
Class 3: July 14 – Five common Missouri fish
Class 4: July 21 – Fishing with lures, fishing regulations
People can register June 11 at:
https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/155641 One registration covers all four classes (i.e., people don’t have to register for classes separately). More information can be found by contacting MDC Angler Education Assistant Meagan Claxton at Meagan.Claxton@mdc.mo.gov
MDC’s Discover Nature Fishing program provides free lessons to help kids and families gain skills and confidence to enjoy fishing. All classes are free. Equipment and bait is provided for participant use.
Get more information about fishing in Missouri at https://huntfish.mdc.mo.gov/fishing
