Free Fishing Weekend is June 10-12 

Fishing derby in Polk County this Saturday

By Patrick Massey

One weekend each year the State of Arkansas hosts a free fishing weekend. This year, Free Fishing Weekend will fall on June 10, 11 and 12. 

Residents and nonresidents may fish this weekend without fishing license or trout permits. This applies to the entire state of Arkansas. So if you’ve been considering a new hobby this is the weekend to try your luck in many of Arkansas’ fish filled waters. Regulations for waters still apply such as daily, slot, and length limits. If you decide hitting the water is for you you can purchase a Resident Fish License for $10.50 and a Trout permit for $10.00. That’s a cheap investment for a good time and a reason to make up some big stories.

An annual tradition sponsored by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and approved by Gov. Hutchinson, Free Fishing Weekend gives many people the opportunity to enjoy the amazing angling The Natural State has to offer.

In celebration of Free Fishing Weekend in Arkansas, a number of fishing derbies are planned across the state. That includes here in Polk County.

The fishing derby has been scheduled for Saturday, June 11 at the Oden Rifle Range Pond. Registration kicks off that morning at 7 a.m. with the event to start at 8 a.m. The derby continues through 10:30 a.m. that morning. 

This event is designed for ages two to 15-years-old. No fishing licenses will be required as youth under the age of 16 can fish without a license. 

Prizes will be awarded following the event. Forest Service fishing derbies will follow the current CDC COVID-19 guidance. Forest officials are asking that people not attend if they are experiencing symptoms or have tested positive for COVID.

For more information call the Mena/Oden Ranger District Office at (479) 394-2382.

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Ethan Nahté

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