Sept. 15, 2021
MIDLAND — The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is taking public comments on a proposal to remove the 13- to 16-inch length limit on largemouth bass at Sugar Loaf Lake in Sebastian County.
Currently, any largemouth bass caught from Sugar Loaf Lake measuring from 13 inches to 16 inches (measured from the tip of the tail to the tip of the lower jaw) must be immediately released into the water. The slot limit has been in place since 1996. Recent electrofishing efforts indicate that the lake is becoming overpopulated with young largemouth bass, which can stunt the growth of fish in the lake.
The AGFC is seeking public comments on the proposal now to present with the recommendation to the Commission during its regulations-setting process in 2022. If passed, it would become effective Jan. 1, 2023.
A video presentation of the proposal and its justification is available at the following YouTube link:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FsOOpDVzaMU. A questionnaire for public comments is available in the description below the video on YouTube.