MDC offers free two-part trout fishing clinic Feb. 19 and Feb. 26 at Liberty

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will offer a free two-part trout fishing clinic in Liberty on Saturday, Feb. 19 and Saturday, Feb. 26. Instructors will teach trout fishing skills and provide actual fishing time with coaching by MDC staff and volunteers. The Feb. 19 session from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. will be at the Liberty Community Center, 1600 S. Withers Road. On Feb. 26, the clinic will move to the lakes at the Capital Federal Sports Complex, 2200 Old 210 Highway, for some actual trout fishing from 8 to 11 a.m.

MDC stocks rainbow trout in urban lakes during winter when the water is cool and oxygenated enough to support this cold-water fish. The stockings provide a close-to-home fishing opportunity. Trout stocked at the sports complex and the fishing clinics are a partnership between MDC and the Liberty Parks and Recreation Department.

The clinic session on Feb. 19 will cover tackle and techniques for catching trout. Then participants will learn how to clean and prepare trout for cooking. On Feb. 26, participants will go trout fishing in the lakes at the sports complex. MDC will provide all necessary equipment including rods, reels, and line already set up for trout fishing. A Missouri fishing permit is not required. But if participants wish to keep the trout they catch, they must have a Missouri Trout Permit.

This session is for participants ages 8 and older. Children must be accompanied by an adult. COVID-19 safety precautions will be followed. In case of bad weather on Feb. 26, participants will be notified of a different date for that session. Registration is required and all participants must be registered separately. To register, visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/44Z.