Ozarks recreation 

A fishing trip to Maramec Spring Park will reduce stress and worry

 

By Paul Spurgeon

Hatchery Manager

 

As the sun struggles to rise over the fog-shrouded valley, a small group of hardy trout fishermen are already on the banks of the spring branch at Maramec Spring Park . The morning mist slowly lifts to reveal an angler staring intently at the riffle in front of him.

Suddenly a loud siren sounds and silver lines are cast frantically at the swift water. Soon a few lucky anglers begin to pull in fat and sleek rainbow trout. Others wonder why the fish seem to swim right past their lures and stop to tie on what the successful fishermen are using. The scene is in sharp contrast to the fast pace of today’s world.

The 2007 trout season at Maramec Spring Park is only a little over a month old, yet over fifteen thousand people have already made the early morning ritual trip to the park. Some will make the trip only a few times, while others will return day after day.

What is the attraction? Many will say that it the perfect way to get away from a stress filled world if only for a few hours. Those employed in the work force say it’s the perfect place to avoid job burn-out or soothe nerves frazzled by another tough day eking out a living. Retired folks will argue that it is the perfect place to get a boost of their adrenaline and an incredible dose of beautiful scenery. Both agree the connections they establish with nature and the camaraderie of fishing friends are priceless.

Maramec Spring is arguably among one of the prettiest spots on earth. Protecting the spring and its beauty while still being accessible to people is the difficult job given to The James Foundation. They in turn have graciously allowed the Missouri Department of Conservation to operate a trout fishery in the park. In 1958, the park joined the ranks of Montauk State Park , Bennett State Park and Roaring River State Park in Trout Park fashion, offering trout fishing on a daily basis March though October. Since then, countless anglers have enjoyed the cold clear spring water and harvested an endless bounty of trout from its waters.

If you would like to give Maramec Spring Park a try, plan a fishing trip soon. There is a $3 per car parking fee to enter the park. This is different from the other parks as Maramec Spring Park is not a state park and is, in fact, privately owned by The James Foundation.

Fishermen must have a valid Missouri Fishing Permit as well as purchase a daily tag. A daily tag costs $3 for adults while children fifteen and under only need a $2 daily tag.

An angler is allowed four trout. The park store sells a wide assortment of baits and lures specially designed for the parks waters. For people new to the sport, a trout park fishing tutorial is available in the park store free of charge.

There are several special events at Maramec Spring Park related to fishing during the year. Kid’s Fishing Day is a chance for the whole family to enjoy the wonders of Maramec Spring Park . It is a chance for kids, parents and family to come together and share a memorable experience that will last a lifetime. The upper half of the spring branch is stocked heavily the night before and periodically during the day to ensure quality fishing and excitement. It is also roped off just for the kids. Numerous games, exhibits, contests, prizes and activities with conservation themes add to the excitement. Children 15 years of age and younger can enjoy the trout fishing experience for free. Entrance to the park is free for cars with kids inside on this day. Kid’s Fishing Day takes place on May 19, 2007.