KANSAS CITY — The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has announced changes to the winter trout stocking schedule for lakes in the Kansas City area. Due to drought conditions impacting water flow at some hatcheries and ongoing construction at others, the MDC has adjusted the stocking schedule, as stated in a press release.
While the lakes in the Kansas City area will receive the same number of fish as originally scheduled for the winter, the MDC will now stock them over a period of weeks with three January stockings. The specific stocking dates will be announced on the Kansas City area fish stocking hotline after the fish have been placed in the lakes.
Among the lakes in the Northland that will be receiving stockings are Chaumiere Lake, which is part of the Kansas City Parks system, as well as two ponds in Liberty’s Capitol Federal Sport Complex and Jesse James Park Lake in Kearney.
Anglers will be permitted to keep a maximum of four trout if they possess a Missouri trout fishing permit. Residents of Missouri, aged 15 and above but under 65, are required to have a valid fishing permit. Non-residents over 15 years old must obtain both a state fishing permit and a trout permit.
To check whether the trout stocking for January has occurred, anglers can call the MDC’s fish stocking hotline at 525-0300 and press 2 as instructed.
By altering the stocking schedule, the MDC aims to address the challenges posed by drought conditions and ongoing construction. The department ensures that the lakes will still receive their designated number of fish, albeit over a shorter period of time.
The adjustments made by the MDC aim to strike a balance between the needs of anglers and the environmental realities faced by the hatcheries. Anglers are encouraged to stay updated on the stocking dates by regularly checking the fish stocking hotline.
With these changes in effect, the MDC anticipates a successful winter trout fishing season in the Kansas City area. Anglers are advised to adhere to the regulations regarding trout fishing permits, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
As winter progresses, anglers can look forward to the exciting opportunity of trout fishing in these lakes, as the MDC continues to work diligently to maintain healthy fish populations and provide recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Missouri Department of Conservation has adjusted the winter trout stocking schedule for lakes in the Kansas City area due to drought conditions and ongoing construction at some of the hatcheries. The lakes will still receive the same number of fish, distributed over a period of weeks with three January stockings. Anglers are urged to check the fish stocking hotline for updates and adhere to the regulations regarding trout fishing permits. With these adjustments, the MDC aims to ensure a successful and enjoyable winter fishing season for all.
