Renowned fly fisherman Mark Van Patten to lead free youth fly fishing workshops in Ozark

Ozark National Scenic Riverways is hosting free fly fishing workshops for youth in the community.

The free, one-day workshops will take place on Sunday, Sept. 8; Sunday, Sept. 15; and Sunday, Oct. 6, at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, about a half-mile north of Akers on Highway K. The workshops, which will start about 9 a.m., are open to children ages 12-16.

Park Ranger Mark Van Patten, a nationally renowned fly fisherman, will lead the workshops. Van Patten will demonstrate various fly rod casting techniques, proper catch and release techniques, and strategies for fly presentation. Participants will learn about aquatic entomology (fish food), recommended equipment, reading the water and understanding flies.

Fly rods and reels will be available for those who do not have their own. Participants should bring the following:

• Valid Missouri fishing permit, if 16 or older

• Trout permit (required for all ages)

• Waders or something to wear while wading (open-toe shoes are not permitted)

• Hat

• Sunglasses

• Sunscreen

• Bug spray

• Packed lunch

• Water

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The workshops are expected to last all day.

Reservations for the workshops are required, as classes are limited to 10 participants, with at least one adult guardian per youth. To make a reservation, call Round Spring Ranger Station at 573-858-3297.

Greta Cross is the trending topics reporter for the Springfield News-Leader. She has more than five years of journalism experience covering everything from Ozarks history to Springfield’s LGBTQIA+ community. Follow her on X and Instagram @gretalcross. Story idea? Email her at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Ozark National Scenic Riverways hosts free youth fly fishing workshops