MDC adds six new free 'loaner' fishing gear locations in southeast Missouri

THIS CONTENT IS ARCHIVED
News from the region
Southeast
Published Date
08/21/2018
Body

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. -- The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has a free Rod and Reel Loaner Program for those who want to fish, but don’t have the equipment. This week, MDC added six new options in southeast Missouri through the Riverside Regional Library System’s locations in Jackson, Scott City, Benton, Altenburg, Oran and Perryville.

MDC’s Rod and Reel Loaner Program offers free “loaner” fishing gear at more than 100 locations around the state, including many libraries, MDC offices and nature centers, some state parks, and several marinas.

For a list of MDC Rod and Reel Loaner locations, visit MDC online at mdc.mo.gov/RodandReelLoanerProgram.

In addition to getting a rod with a standard spin-cast reel, MDC also provides a small tackle box with hooks, sinkers, bobbers, and a stringer to hold the catch. Anglers need to bring their own live bait or desired lures.

"Fishing is a great way to spend family time, relieve stress, enjoy the outdoors, and even catch a meal," said MDC Angler Education Assistant Caleb Jansen. "This program provides an opportunity for kids and adults who don’t have fishing gear to try it first before making an investment in equipment.”

MDC started the program in 2014 and now offers more than 4,000 sets of fishing gear at 100 locations around the state -- including many libraries. The Mid Continent Public Library in Smithville recently became the 100th loaner location, and more are being added. Organizations in several communities have partnered with MDC to provide equipment.

"Most communities have a local library and people are generally familiar with going to a library to checkout book, DVDs, CDs, and other items,” Jansen explained. “Now they can also borrow fishing equipment just as easily as they would check out a book.”

According to MDC, conservation makes Missouri a great place to fish for more than a million anglers and brings hundreds of millions of dollars in related revenue to communities in Missouri each year.

“Our free Rod and Reel Loaner Program makes it even easier for more folks to get hooked on fishing,” Jansen added.

For more information on fishing in Missouri, including public places to fish, regulations, seasons, what to catch, fishing tips, and more, visit MDC online at mdc.mo.gov/fishing.