Costs and Benefits of Trout Fishing

Enthusiastic anglers, took advantage of the warm weather this weekend at Montauk State Park and cast their lines for the last time before the waters are shut down to prepare for the opening of  trout season on March 1. However, little did I know, trout fishing would not have been possible at Montauk without its hatchery.

The Montauk Hatchery is just one of five state hatcheries in Missouri and was opened in 1932. This hatchery is managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation and raises between 300,000 and 400,000 trout each year. While about 200,000 of those trout are stocked throughout the park, the rest are sent to other trout fishing areas.

Because trout were not native to Missouri and are very expensive to produce, the Department of Conservation decided in 1937 that anglers should “pay their own way.” To help balance the cost of raising trout, anglers are required to purchase trout permits and daily fishing tags.

            Many acts of legislation have been passed over the years to help manage fish hatcheries. The Sport Fish Restoration Act places a federal tax on fishing equipment and boat fuel. Voters also approved the Missouri Conservation Sales Tax in 1976 which places a 1/8 percent general sales tax dedicated to funding conservation efforts throughout the state. Essentially, all anglers help support the management of fisheries with their fishing-related purchases.

Not only does trout fishing help sustain hatcheries, but it also helps out local businesses such as motels and tackle shops. Funds created by the Sport Fish Restoration Act and the Missouri Conservation Sales Tax also go towards paying for kids fishing programs and Stream Team volunteer workshops.

The Montauk Hatchery is open to the public between sunrise and sunset with special fish food available to feed them for just 25 cents. Special tours of the hatchery are also available at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesdays, Satudays and Sundays beginning Memorial Day weekend and lasting through Labor Day weekend.