The James Foundation welcomes the public to Maramec Spring Park on March 1 for the opening of trout fishing season.
Regional manager and vice president of the James Foundation Danny Marshall explained the event.
“The Missouri Department of Conservation holds the opening in four different areas, one being Maramec and the other three are state parks,” Marshall said. “For the trout fishing program they stock fish in the stream daily, which starts March 1.”
Marshall noted trout opening began at Maramec in 1958.
On March 1 the park will open at 5:30 a.m. and fishing will last from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. The park will close at 6:30 p.m.
Marshall also noted the park museums would open April 3 and camping would begin Feb. 28.
Pricing for the park includes a $5 charge for entry or the option of a $35 annual pass fee.
For fishing licenses, a yearly fishing permit is required for those ages 17 to 64, as well as a trout tag. The permit costs $12 and is available at sporting goods stores. For youth and those age 65 and older all that is required is the trout tag. Tags are available at the park for $2 for youth and $3 for adults.
Marshall noted the St. James Chamber of Commerce would be providing donuts and coffee and giving away prizes for those fishing.
“Some of the fish have plastic tags (from the Department of Conservation), which can be used for purchases at the Maramec store as well,” Marshall said.
Last year approximately 1,700 people attended trout opening. Marshall noted the Missouri Department of Conservation stocks three fish per anticipated person.
“You can keep four trout,” Marshall said. “If a brown trout is 15 inches or greater you can keep it. There is no limit on the Rainbows.”
Marshall said fishing would be in the spring branch and any type of bait is allowed.
He also noted the Company Store would be open as well as the Pick and Shovel Cafe, which would be open from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For questions concerning trout opening or Maramec Spring Park contact the park at 573-265-7387.
