Thanks to a proclamation from Sarah Huckabee Sanders presented during Thursday’s Arkansas Game and Fish Commission meeting, Arkansas residents and visitors will be able to fish without a license during Free Fishing Weekend June 12-14.
Anyone may fish in Arkansas without a fishing license or trout stamp beginning at noon Friday, June 12, through midnight Sunday, June 14.
AGFC Director Doug Schoenrock said the event helps encourage outdoor recreation and gives anglers an opportunity to experience Arkansas fishing.
Officials said sportfishing has a $2.1 billion economic impact in Arkansas and supports more than 18,000 jobs statewide.
AGFC Deputy Director Ben Batten said many families use the weekend for fishing trips and reunions, especially with out-of-state guests.
All regular fishing regulations, including length limits and daily creel limits, will remain in effect during the weekend.
The AGFC will also host several youth fishing derbies June 13 at state hatcheries across Arkansas. The derbies will run from 8 a.m. until noon and are open to anglers 18 and younger and their families. Participants may keep up to three catfish.
Derbies are planned at the Joe Hogan State Fish Hatchery, Andrew Hulsey State Fish Hatchery, William H. Donham State Fish Hatchery and Charlie Craig State Fish Hatchery.
Officials said advance registration is required for the hatchery fishing derbies.
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