MDC hosts youth frog-gigging clinic July 6 in West Plains


MDC photo

The Missouri Department of Conservation will host a frog-gigging clinic for young people age 10 to 15 from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Friday, July 6, at MDC’s Ozark Regional Office, 551 Joe Jones Blvd. in West Plains. The clinic is free for young participants and their parent or adult mentor.
Participants will have a classroom session to learn the basics of frog-gigging safety, equipment, identification and regulations. Next, participants will have an opportunity to put their knowledge to the test and go frog gigging with the help of MDC staff. Participants will also learn how to clean their catch to take home and cook.
“Frog gigging is fun for the whole family,” said John Ackerson, MDC fisheries management biologist. “This is an activity young kids can enjoy and have success with.”
Ackerson said rubber boots or old shoes are recommended, as well as headlamps and flashlights. MDC will provide all other equipment, as well as an evening meal of fish and frog legs. All attendees are invited to eat and learn about frog regulations and biology, but only youth may participate in the gigging opportunity.
Frogs may be harvested with either fishing or hunting permits, as long as the method matches the permit. With a fishing permit, frogs may be harvested by hand, hand net, atlatl, gig, bow, trotline, throw line, limb line, bank line, jug line, snagging, snaring, grabbing or pole and line during frog season. With a hunting permit, frogs may be harvested using .22-caliber or smaller rimfire rifle or pistol, pellet gun, bow, crossbow, atlatl or by hand or hand net.
This year’s frog season begins at sunset on June 30 and continues through Oct. 31. The daily limit is eight bullfrogs or green frogs and 16 in possession. Children under the age of 16 and resident adults over 65 are not required to have a permit.
Pre-registration and transportation from the office to area ponds is required. To register for this free clinic, or for more information, call 417-256-7161.
 

Ozark County Times

504 Third Steet
PO Box 188
Gainesville, MO 65655

Phone: (417) 679-4641
Fax: (417) 679-3423