Ozark Riverways hosts youth fly fishing workshops

Ozark National Scenic Riverways will host a series of free, one-day workshops about the basics of fly fishing for youth between the ages of 12 and 16. The clinics will be held on Sept. 8, Sept. 15, and Oct. 6 at the Mt. Zion Church north of Akers. 

 

Reservations are required. These free workshops are limited to 10 youth participants, with at least one parent or guardian for each youth. For more information and to make reservations for one of the workshops, please contact the Round Spring Ranger Station at 573-858-3297. 

 

Park Ranger Mark Van Patten, who is nationally recognized for his accomplishments as a fly fisher and is a 2023 inductee into the National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame, will lead the workshops. Ranger Van Patten will demonstrate various fly rod casting techniques, proper catch and release techniques, and strategies for fly presentation. Instruction will also include lessons on aquatic entomology (fish food), recommended equipment, reading the water, and understanding flies. 

 

Fly fishing is not just for trout. It is for all fish in all waters. You can use these skills to catch bluegill in a pond or tarpon in the Gulf of Mexico. There is no limit to the opportunities.

 

Fly rods and reels will be available for those who do not have their own. The book Fly Fishing A-Z will be provided. The clinics are expected to last the full day. Participants should bring the following:  

 

- Valid Missouri fishing permit if 16 years or older.

- A Trout Permit is required for all ages, if under age 16 the cost is half price ($5.00)

- Waders or something to wear while wading (no open-toed shoes)

- Hat 

- Sunglasses (polarized preferred) 

- Sunscreen 

- Bug spray 

- Lunch 

- Water 

 

This program was made possible in part by a grant from the National Park Foundation and through the support of the Ozark Riverways Foundation.