MISSOURI — Catfishing is a fun way to discover nature in the summer months, and the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is offering anglers a special two-day program focusing on alternative methods.

MDC will host a free Alternative Methods Catfishing Clinic Friday, July 29 from 4:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. and Saturday, July 30 from 8:00 a.m. – 12 p.m. on the Mississippi River in Alexandria.

Friday evening participants will be taken on the Mississippi River and shown how to safely set lines and navigate the river. Once off the river, there will be presentations on regulations, tactics, and gear.

During Saturday’s program, participants will head out on the river to check lines, learn about regulations, and hopefully harvest catfish. A fish cleaning demonstration will be conducted upon return from the river.

MDC staff and volunteers will offer instruction on the basics of setline fishing on Missouri’s rivers and lakes. An MDC fisheries management biologist will also provide information on recent catfish surveys and management of fish populations. The program will focus on safe and legal use of trotlines and bank poles, gear, equipment, and boat operation.

Fishing, safety equipment, and water will be provided. All other needs, including lodging and food, will need to be handled by participants. Fishing permits are required, unless otherwise exempt.

The clinic is geared for participants ages 12 and older. Advanced registration is required by July 20. Each participant must register separately. To register, visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/45p.

For additional information, contact MDC Naturalist Alyssa Garver at MDC’s Northeast Regional Office at 660-785-2420 or by email at Alyssa.Garver@mdc.mo.gov.