Anyone may fish in Arkansas without a fishing license or trout stamp from noon June 9 through midnight June 11.
Free Fishing Weekend gives citizens and visitors an opportunity to enjoy angling in Arkansas. The weekend is an annual tradition sponsored by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and approved by Gov. Asa Hutchinson.
Chris Racey, chief of the Fisheries Division of Game and Fish, said the weekend is a great time to introduce fishing to the family and to bring over friends from other states.
“It’s great for residents and nonresidents to meet up and head to a fishing destination,” Racey said. “Trout stamp requirements are waived as well, so our famous trout tailwaters are a great option for people wanting to try their hand at something different.”
The agency also will host fishing derbies at each of its five hatcheries across the state on June 10 for anglers 12 and younger. The Charlie Craig State Fish Hatchery in Centerton is included.
“Fishing is never a surething, but this is the one time I can almost guarantee everyone who comes will catch something,” Racey said. “Our hatchery staff take great pride in making these derbies a fun event, and often add a few extra-large bonus fish into the mix to give young anglers some added excitement.”
Fishing derbies will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Each child must be supervised by an adult. In addition to fishing fun, participants also will be able to compete in casting contests and win prizes for fish caught.