If the lack of a rod is stopping you from fishing, cast away your worries!
Several libraries across the area offer fishing equipment for check out. The rods and tackle boxes are provided by the MDC and are kept stocked and ready for use.
Cities that offer fishing gear checkout:
- Blue Springs
- Lee’s Summit
- North Kansas City
- Liberty
In Liberty, the Discover Nature fishing program is a three-way partnership between the Mid-Continent Public Library, the Missouri Department of Conservation and theLiberty Parks and Recreation Department.
“We’re just always looking for ways to get out into the community with the library,” said Brent Sweany, Access Specialist at the Liberty branch. “We really like to be where our customers are. One thing we hadn’t really explored before was partnership with Liberty Parks and Rec Department.”
Checkout fishing gear
- Name and Number. Library card not necessary but recommended
- Checkout includes rods and a tackle box
- Keep it for a week
- Rods can be used anywhere where fishing is permitted
- Must have fishing license for state you will be fishing in
There are eight fishing ponds at the Fountain Bluff Park. On Tuesday, a fishing class was given to children.
“We plan several special events and programs. One of them we wanted to do this year was a fishing program,” said Evan Cloepfil, Special Events and Marketing Coordinator with Liberty Parks and Rec.
The students were taught the basics of fishing such as how to handle fish, casting, setting your line and how to apply bait.
“Fishing is a really fun, cheap family activity. You don’t need a whole bunch of really expensive equipment. It’s just a great time to get out in the community, get outdoors and discover nature," said Sweany.
The rod checkout has been available in Liberty for a week and is very popular with all the rods being used. The popularity translates to the fishing ponds.
“It’s just one of those lifelong things people can do with their families, a little relaxation, be able to get out and enjoy nature," Cloepfil said.
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