MDC offers free jig tying classes March 19 in Kansas City

by Bill Graham, Missouri Dept. of Conservation

     Fishing jigs are among the most effective fishing lures for catching fish that are big or small, from bass and crappie to bluegill and trout. Jigs are hooks with a lead head adorned with marabou, chenille, and various colors to mimic baitfish. They can be hand tied by anglers.
     The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will offer three free jig tying classes on Saturday, March 19, at the Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center in Kansas City. The one-hour classes will begin at 10 a.m., Noon, and 1:30 p.m.
     Participants will learn about the materials, tools, and techniques needed to tie jigs and flies. MDC will provide materials. Instructor Steve Jacobsen, assistant Discovery Center manager, will talk about the various styles and sizes of jigs and flies and the types of fish they can catch. For example, anglers may use larger jigs to catch largemouth bass but smaller jigs to catch crappie. Some anglers favor certain colors for water conditions and the species they are targeting.
     This class is for participants ages 9 and older. COVID-19 safety precautions will be observed. Registration is required. To register, visit the following links:

• 10 to 11 a.m., https://short.mdc.mo.gov/4oR.
• Noon to 1 p.m., https://short.mdc.mo.gov/4oD.
• 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., https://short.mdc.mo.gov/4oz.

     For more information about the Gorman Discovery Center at 4750 Troost Ave., visit https://mdc.mo.gov/discoverycenter.

Photo credit: MDC