41 C & R seasons at BSSP

[laker67]

Just completed 41 consecutive winter [c & r] seasons. Most years I fish at all 4 areas, this year I only fished bennett. I know of at least one other member who has fished all 41 so lets hear from the others. Also there are most likely some who just fished their first one. My thanks to MDC for these winter seasons.

[Bill Butts]

Laker, that is very cool that you've fished the C&R program every year.

I had forgotten the exact year, until you revealed it. That program became my favorite time to fish the parks, due to the relative low pressure and the winter beauty. My parents lived inside BSSP from 77 to 87 and thoroughly enjoyed the slower pace and abundance of wildlife of the winter seasons there.

The program's concept was first introduced by well-known author, artist, conservationist, Dave Whitlock, to the Springfield Chapter of the Missouri Trout Fishers' Assoc. just a few years prior. 1973, I think.  He said that he had communicated with the MDC and received no resistance to the concept of a winter C&R program. (Dave was a resident of Oklahoma at the time) The Springfield group then initiated a more direct request for a pilot program to at least be tested, which it was, And as they say, the rest is history.

It would be interesting to see a chart of the usage of the fisheries in the winter, if they keep one. In the early days, as you know, you had to submit your fishing license to get a daily C&R tag, so tracking usage was simple.

With specialized clothing technology for cold weather, most anglers can now enjoy reasonable comfort in about all but the most extreme cold temps. What awesome resources we are fortunate to have in Missouri State Parks. 

 

[laker67]

Thank you Bill for that bit of history about how it got it's start. I recall you and your parents well. 

[snagged in outlet 3]

I don't remember what my first year was but it was in the 70's with my dad.  Back then it wasn't unusual to be the only people in the park.

I've never missed one since it started. 

For me trout season opens in October and closes March 1st.

Thanks Bill!  Hybrids ought to start moving soon.