MDC Conservation Fishing Centers
August A Busch Conservation Area
Hatchery Ponds in Forest Park
Bellefontaine Conservation Area
Suson Park Rearing Pond
Missouri Department of Conservation Fishing Centers are set up to help teach kids and families how to fish by offering free fishing clinics. These clinics include instruction (before and during the clinic) in basic fishing and safety, free equipment use, and fishing in stocked ponds.
Who should participate?
- kids or groups of kids who’ve never fished
- families with little or no fishing experience
Where are the centers located?
- Lakes 1, 2, and 15 at August A. Busch Conservation Area
- Hatchery Ponds in Forest Park
- Hybrid and Catfish ponds at Bellefontaine Conservation Area
- Suson Park Rearing Pond
How do I sign up?
- Call the Missouri Department of Conservation’s St. Louis Regional Office (636/441-4554) and ask for available dates at one of the fishing centers
- Sign up for the free clinic of your choice
What do I need to bring?
- If you are between the ages of 16 and 65, you will need a Missouri fishing permit to fish. Adults not wishing to fish, but want to accompany their child, do not need a fishing permit.
- Drinking water
Groups of kids or several families can request a clinic date by calling the St. Louis Regional Office (636/441-4554), providing the following:
- group consists of at least 25 people
- most have never fished
- preferred fishing center location
- a 3-month advanced notice
- a group contact person
The Conservation Department will attempt to arrange a clinic for your group and will contact your group’s contact person.
