A fishing derby for young anglers at the Charlie Craig State Fish Hatchery in Centerton on Saturday is part of Arkansas’ free fishing weekend.

The derby is from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Two ponds at the hatchery have been stocked with hundreds of catfish for anglers to catch. Children 12 and under and accompanied by an adult may catch a limit of three catfish. Anglers need to furnish their own tackle and bait. They should bring an ice chest to take their catfish home.

Hatchery manager Tommy Laird said the fish average 1.5 pounds, but some weigh 7 pounds or more.

Some of the catfish have tags that can be redeemed for prizes. Other prizes will be given away in a random drawing.

In addition to fishing, adults and children may paddle canoes furnished by the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission. There will be air gun and archery ranges. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

The hatchery is located on the south end of Centerton on Fish Hatchery Road. For details call the hatchery at 877-795-2470.

Outdoor, Pages 7 on 06/06/2013