Fishing in KC

Though sometimes seen as an old man’s pastime, fishing can be a fun family affair. Lots of fishing opportunities can be found around the Metro area for families to enjoy. Both Kansas and Missouri have several large lakes in the area, as well as many smaller lakes, streams and rivers with public access and good fishing. A local fishing enthusiast, John Krzysztow, has a passion for teaching kids to fish for a lifetime and is developing a website that encourages kids to do just that: www.TeachKidsToFishForLife.com. His suggestions for kid-friendly area lakes and ponds include:

• Kill Creek Park (Olathe, KS)
• Shawnee Mission Park (Lenexa, KS)
• Antioch Park (Merriam, KS)
• Heritage Park (Olathe, KS)
• Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead (Overland Park, KS)
• Englewood Lake (Kansas City North, MO)
• Lake of the Woods in Swope Park (Kansas City, MO)
• Blue Springs Lake (Lee's Summit, MO)
• Lake Jacomo (Blue Springs, MO)
• Longview Lake (Kansas City, MO)

Before you head out, check with state wildlife departments for important rules and regulations. Both states require anyone 16-64 years old to have a fishing permit in public areas for the state where they are fishing. Area rules will usually be posted near popular fishing places like docks, dams and marinas. In the case of streams, rivers or ponds that might be on private property, always ask permission before fishing.