Supporting the Big Muddy National
Fish and Wildlife Refuge

The Big Muddy National Fish and Wildlife Refuge has cooperated with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Boone County for the last two years to take as many children fishing as possible.  Friends of Big Muddy and Friends of Arrow Rock have helped each year, providing volunteers to work with the children and help them with fishing.  The fishing is actually done at the Arrow Rock State Historic Site Big Soldier Lake (which is just above the Jameson Island Unit of the refuge) because of the manageable access and ease of stocking for the fishing day.  This program is done as part of the national Kids Fishing Day in cooperation with the Missouri Department of Conservation.

Big Muddy Park Ranger Tim Haller
helps put a worm on a hook.

Some of the kids are already experts at fishing, while others have never baited a hook.  Regardless, it’s a fun time for all, volunteers and kids alike.  The fishing is all catch-and-release, but it’s smiles that are catching the most.

The one that didn’t get away.

After an hour or so of hard fishing, we all break for a well-earned lunch.  After lunch there’s more fishing.  Finally, there are prizes of fishing equipment and other stuff for all, donated by local businesses.   

Trying to catch the big one!

Special thanks go to the following individuals and businesses for donating prizes, fishing equipment, and lunch:  Boone Hospital Center,  Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s, Inc., Hy-Vee, Inc., Gary Moore, Papa Johns, Reids Charter, Tombstone Tackle, Wal-Mart.

The 2002 fishing group at Arrow Rock.

The 2003 fishing group at Arrow Rock.

This is a yearly event, so if you would like to help next year, please contact us.  There are kids who would like to fish with you!

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