Trout Parks Plan Youth Fishing Events In May

[Phil Lilley]

Four events in May offer children age 15 and younger a chance to learn about trout fishing, enjoy beautiful spring weather and spend quality time with family and friends.

Each year the Missouri Departments of Conservation and Natural Resources and The James Foundation organize Kids Fishing Day events in cooperation with local sponsors. The DNR owns and operates Bennett Spring State Park near Lebanon, Montauk State Park near Salem and Roaring River State Park near Cassville. The James Foundation owns and operates Maramec Spring Park near St. James. The Conservation Department operates trout hatcheries at each facility, supplying the raw material for fun and lasting memories.

MONTAUK STATE PARK

Montauk’s Kids Fishing Day runs from 6:30 a.m. to 8:15 p.m. May 3. Kids can pick up free trout tags at the hatchery office from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. May 2 or on the day of the event. A section of the spring branch from the CCC Spillway to the Social Hole will be reserved for the youth anglers and stocked with trout all day. Volunteers will be on hand to help young anglers. Children are encouraged to bring their own fishing equipment.

Parents are welcome to help, but only one pole may be used between an adult helper and a child. Adults may not fish by themselves in the area set aside for Kids Fishing Day.

Local sponsors will provide hamburgers, hotdogs and soft drinks from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for participating children. Activities offered throughout the day will include a stream table exhibit, door-prize drawings and trout-fishing seminars, such as fly tying and fly casting..

Volunteers are needed to help with this event. Individuals wishing to volunteer do not need to be experienced anglers. If you would like to volunteer or donate to Kids Fishing Day, or for more information, call 573/548-2585 or e-mail Tom.Whelan@mdc.mo.gov.