Nature Center holds night fishing event for kids

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. -- The Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center will hold a night fishing event for children May 10 from 5 to 8 p.m. This "Nature Center at Night" event will feature lessons on the basics of fishing. The whole family is invited to the Nature Center's kid's fishing pond to see what kind of monsters will pulled out of the pond in the twilight hours.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) Naturalist, Jen Weaver, fishing is such a great way to get out in nature and be outdoors, that over 1.3 million Missourians take part in the sport.

"The overall theme of this event is to encourage families to go fishing and teach kids fishing related skills such as casting," said Weaver. "There is also a game called 'backyard bass' where kids can practice casting a line without a hook on it."

Fishing is also a great way to help children discover nature, Weaver said. Learning outdoor skills such as fishing helps to ensure children grow to learn the importance of conservation of Missouri's fish, forest and wildlife resources.

Fishing poles can be provided for those who do not own their own, and this event is free for all ages with no registration required. Youth and adult groups are welcome to attend. For more information on this event and others at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center, call 573-290-5218 or go online to www.mdc.mo.gov