Events

Five Common Missouri Fish - Their Anatomy, Habitat, and Life Cycle. Fishing with Lures and Fishing Regulations. You must take Discover Nature - Fishing Lesson 1 and 2 before you can take this class.

Additional Information:

Lesson 3: Five Common Missouri Fish-Their Anatomy, Habitat, and Life Cycle combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and their families basic biological concepts and functions specific to largemouth bass, bluegill, hybrid sunfish, channel catfish and rainbow trout. Participants will learn the different components of fish anatomy and their functions. In addition, participants will learn about various types of fish habitat and aquatic food webs. Lesson 4: Fishing with Lures and Fishing Regulations combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families how to properly select a fishing lure based on desired fish species, weather and water conditions. In addition, participants will learn how to identify and understand fishing regulations.

Participants are limited to anglers ages 7 and up. We encourage the entire family to participate. Fishing equipment, instructors/coaches and bait/lures will be provided. Adults who do not wish to fish must accompany their child(ren) at all times. Participants must have completed Lessons 1 and 2 prior to attending Lessons 3 & 4. Participants do NOT need a fishing permit to fish during this program. For additional information or questions contact LuAnn Conway at (573) 325-1381 ext. 6036.

Join MDC Staff for our Introduction to Backpacking Program where we will hike in Paddy Creek Wilderness along the Big Piney north loop to the south loop (approx. 8 miles) with primitive overnight camping along the trail. Trail map can be found at: https://usfs-public.app.box.com/v/PaddyCreekWildernessTrails. Please note that the full length of the Big Piney Trail is 17.5 miles. As this is an introductory program, we will hike the north section from Roby Lake and take the connector loop to the south trail - approx. 8 miles - and primitive camp along the southern section.

Expect the Ozark Hills terrain of steeper climbs to beautiful overlooks as well as hikes along ridge tops and down into valleys. We will be camping along an overlook of the southern loop. Participants will need to filter water along the trail and hike their water supply to the campsite on the ridge. There will also be several creek crossings. Be prepared to bring a spare pair of sandals when crossing the creeks.

Since this is an Introductory Backpacking Program, all gear and equipment can be provided for participants. We will conduct a MANDATORY virtual check-in on March 13 (6:00pm-8:00pm) which is around five weeks prior to the trip to introduce the group and discuss trip preparation and logistics. A supply list will be emailed to you if you need any backpacking equipment or gear. You will also be required to submit a survey of your past outdoor skills experience, as well as submit an emergency medical form in case of any emergency while on trail.

All family or friend groupings will be responsible for carrying their own gear, including water filter, stove, tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad. You are responsible for packing your own food - this will be discussed in our virtual check-in - and you will be shown how to hang a bear-bag and filter water while on trail. We will be outside for the entirety of this program.

If you have any questions or concerns, please email the instructor.

Thank you and our hope and goal is for each of you to be more inspired to explore the trails around you - whether that is through practicing your backpacking skills during this trip or taking longer day hikes. We want you to know that you have access in many ways to our beautiful natural resources!

Hummingbirds are beautiful and unique birds. Discover more about these tiny fliers and learn how to attract these magnificent little jewels to your yard or garden.

Learn embroidery techniques while also exploring "Trees of Missouri" by stitching quilt blocks based on that theme.

This class is a 12-month program (June 2023-May 2024) that meets each month. You will learn simple, but beautiful embroidery techniques as we explore some of the most stunning and unique trees native to Missouri.

By signing up, you are committing to attend all twelve of the monthly sessions so that you will be able to complete all 15 blocks for an entire quilt.

MDC and Roubidoux Fly Fishers Association is hosting a fly tying & fishing program directed toward catching pond bluegill. Program will consist of tying two types of flies, learning how to properly use a fly rod, and then doing some catch-and-release fishing. Instruction and equipment are provided at no cost by Missouri Department of Conservation & Roubidoux Fly Fishers Association during the workshop; but individuals may bring their own fly tying equipment if they wish. Space is limited to 15 participants and all participants must be 11 years or older (parent must accompany any participant ages 11-15). This workshop will be held at Marguerite Bray Conservation Area near Rolla on April 27 from 8 AM – 12 Noon. Participants 16 and older must possess a valid Missouri fishing permit.

Participants will learn about native butternut trees. Then they will delve into the art of woodworking, specifically carving their own trencher bowls from ethically sourced butternut wood. This intermediate-level class covers layout, design, and the use of hand tools.

Kids Fish Free in Montauk State Park Saturday, May 4th. Fishing is from 6:30 am to 8:15 pm. The spring branch will be reserved for kids only, but kids will be allowed to fish the entire park with their free tag. Tags can be obtained from 2pm to 5 pm Friday, 5/3 at the registration tent by the fish cleaning station, or all day Saturday May 4. There will be attendance prizes, free tree seedlings, fishing simulator, mobile aquarium, invertebrate tables, and more. Free hotdog and chip lunch will be from 11-1.

Lesson 1: Learn the parts and function of a spin cast fishing rod and reel. How to cast safely and successfully. How to fasten basic tackle to a fishing line. Learn techniques to catch fish and handle it properly.

Lesson 2: How to Tie a Knot and Bait a Hook combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families intermediate fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure bait on hooks.

Participants will be able to take what they learned and go fishing.

MDC will provide a staffed atlatl range and equipment for youth and families to experience the joy of atlatl during the Montauk Mill Days at Montauk State Park. No registration required.