MDC hosts fifth annual ice fishing workshop in Hunnewell on Jan. 12

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News from the region
Northeast
Published Date
12/21/2018
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HUNNEWELL, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will offer its fifth annual ice fishing workshop in Hunnewell, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m., on Jan. 12. This free workshop will take place at the Hunnewell Lake Conservation Area, located at 6503 Highway Z in Shelby County.

This Discover Nature – Fishing workshop will address basic ice safety, equipment instruction, fish identification, and hands-on experience fishing on the ice. MDC will provide a limited supply of bait and tackle, but participants are encouraged to bring their own gear, including ice cleats, a chair or bucket to sit on, and a packed lunch as there are no local dining options. Participants will need to dress in layers as the first part of the workshop will take place in a heated building followed by an outdoor portion in potentially frigid conditions.

“This is a great way for anyone who has been curious about ice fishing to try it out,” said MDC Angler Recruitment Technician Chelsea Clever. “We have all the equipment to try out and a variety of baits. With a little bit of luck, the ice will be thick enough to get out on and try out newly learned skills.”

During the classroom portion, participants will learn about ice safety, fish identification, habitat identification, equipment, and ice fishing regulations. Immediately following the classroom presentation, participants will have the opportunity to venture out onto the ice to practice skills, weather and ice permitting. In the event of insufficient ice cover, the clinic will continue with participants fishing from the ADA dock and catwalk. The class will be canceled in the event of hazardous weather, including freezing rain or heavy snow.

Beginners of all ages are welcome, but participants younger than 16-years old must be accompanied by an adult. Participants 16-years old and older must purchase their fishing permits prior to the class.

Space is limited for this popular event, and participants must preregister by noon on Jan. 11 to attend. To register, visit the online event registration page: mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/163667.

MDC works with Missourians to provide educational opportunities and enriching outdoor experiences all year long. Ice fishing allows anglers to extend their fishing season and continue to harvest legal game fish species using unique methods.

For more information about this event, call the MDC office in Hannibal at 573-248-2530, or contact Chelsea Clever at 573-248-2530, ext. 6377, or Chelsea.Clever@mdc.mo.gov. Learn more about MDC’s Discover Nature – Fishing programs at short.mdc.mo.gov/Z4y.