MDC virtual program on April 6 to focus on sucker snagging

JOPLIN, Mo. – If you have heard about snagging for suckers and want to learn more about this unique form of fishing, circle April 6 on your calendar.

People wanting to find out more about snagging for suckers can learn more at the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) virtual program “Fishing Skills: Virtual Sucker Grabbing.” This online program, which will be April 6 from 2:30-3 p.m., is being put on by the staff of MDC’s Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center in Joplin. At this program, MDC Administrative Specialist Tim Smith will provide information about this unique way of fishing for suckers and other nongame fish species. People can register for this program at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/183165

Snagging (also called grabbing) involves hooking a fish in an area other than its mouth. Missouri also has two snagging seasons for nongame fish; March 15 to May 15 and Sept. 15 to Jan. 31. Only species that are classified by Missouri’s Wildlife Code as “nongame fish” are legal to be taken during these seasons. Suckers are main focus of these snagging seasons, but people also snag for carp, buffalo and other species of nongame fish.

At the April 6 online program, Smith will discuss the rods, reels, hooks and other gear needed for snagging season. He’ll also discuss the regulations, techniques, and strategies of fish snagging.

Though this program is free, registration is required to participate. Use the link above. Registrants must provide an e-mail, so a program link can be sent to them. People can stay informed about upcoming programs at MDC’s Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center and other nearby MDC facilities by signing up for text alerts and e-mail bulletins. People who have questions about how to sign up for text alerts from the Shoal Creek Center can call 417-629-3423.

Staff at MDC facilities across the state are holding virtual programs. A listing of these programs can be found at mdc.mo.gov/events.