MT. VERNON – Learning how to fish is fun, easy and free for youngsters and families this summer thanks to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Urban Fishing Program. Free fishing clinics are scheduled at sites throughout southern Illinois, including Mt. Vernon.
The free Urban Fishing Program clinics are targeted toward children ages 16 and younger, but anyone interested in learning basic fishing techniques may attend.
Fishing clinic instructors present information on fish and other aquatic life, rules and regulations for fishing, as well as basic instruction on baiting a hook, tying a knot, casting, important tactics on how to catch fish, and finally how to handle and return fish to the water. As part of each clinic, participants are provided with rods, reels, bait and tackle for 90 minutes of catch-and-release fishing.
The Mt. Vernon urban fishing clinic will be held at Veteran’s Park from 9-11:30 a.m. and 1-3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, July 23rd through August 5th. To reserve a spot at the Mt. Vernon fishing clinic, call 618-314-0437.
The Illinois Urban Fishing Program was introduced in 1985 to teach individuals of all ages to fish, to provide better local fishing opportunities, and to give participants an understanding of and a greater appreciation for natural resources. Urban Fishing Program coordinators also hold non-fishing conservation education programs and visit schools during the fall, winter, and spring to teach and promote fishing and the appreciation of natural resources.
For more information on fishing in Illinois, check the website at www.ifishillinois.org.