Missouri’s Free Fishing Days beginning this weekend 

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- Adventurous Missouri residents who are interested in trying fishing without having to shell out money for a permit are in luck this weekend.

On Saturday, June 7, and Sunday, June 8, anyone can fish in state waters without a Missouri Department of Conservation fishing permit, trout permit, or prescribed area daily tag during Free Fishing Days.

"It allows them to get out and see if they're going to actually enjoy it beforehand," Buchanan County Conservation Agent Kelsey Gillenwater said. "Get out for two days and enjoy the weather, you know, it gets people out on our conservation areas as well to get them to explore and see what we have to offer."

Some fees and permits may be required in some locations and private fishing areas. Typical regulations like size and daily limits still apply during Free Fishing Days.

"Up here in northwest Missouri, where we do not have trout, there's no other fees that you're going to acquire fishing-wise other than you providing your own pole, your bait and whatever snacks you might want for the day," she said.

The Northwest Regional Conservation Office does not have any fishing gear to pass out at its office, but one of the local libraries may.

"If you are needing a fishing pole or tackle—they don't have bait—but all the other things they would be able to supply you with as long as they have them in stock," she said.

Gillenwater said permits help fund the Missouri Department of Conservation, allowing them to maintain adequate staffing and fund conservation efforts.

Anyone interested in purchasing a permit can visit the Missouri Department of Conservation website at mdc.mo.gov/permits. Free Fishing Days occurs on the Saturday and Sunday following the first Monday in June.

"Whether you're on a river, you're on a lake, or you're at Krug Park, you're able to participate," she said.