Jan. 27, 2021
Randy Zellers Assistant Chief of Communications
LITTLE ROCK — Thanks to a donation from the Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation, five lucky anglers who have turned in tags from trout caught this winter will receive $100 Bass Pro Shops gift cards.
The tags were randomly placed on trout stocked by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Family and Community Fishing Program in locations across the state. Hundreds of fish were tagged, each being worth a small prize in addition to fantastic table fare and an enjoyable day on the water.
“We want to remind folks that we still have tags out that have not been mailed in yet,” said FCFP coordinator Maurice Jackson. “Mailing the tags will result in a prize and all winners will be entered into a grand prize drawing for one of three guided fishing trips for two to the Little Red River. The Foundation and Sore Lip ‘Em All Guide Service on the Little Red also are responsible for the grand prizes.”
AGFF President Deke Whitbeck said the Foundation is excited to help with the donations for the gift cards and help with the grand prizes to recruit, retain and reactivate anglers in Arkansas.
"The Foundation is happy to support those programs that help families get unplugged and engaged in Arkansas's Outdoors,” Whitbeck said. “The Family and Community Fishing Program exemplifies this notion and we can't thank Maurice Jackson and Clint Coleman for all they do making this program one of the best in the agency."
Jackson said the AGFC is in the process of another round of trout stockings for winter and encourages everyone to enjoy this year’s Trout Day, an annual celebration held by the FCFP on the last Saturday of each January. Although social-distancing restrictions will prevent any derbies or large-scale gatherings similar to those held in years past, this year’s Trout Day still is an excellent opportunity to enjoy a day by the water with close family and friends.
“Take someone you’re close to out for a day on the water and enjoy one of the healthiest activities available,” Jackson said. “Trout are delicious, easy to catch and offer a much-needed opportunity to beat cabin fever. Who knows? You may get lucky and catch one of the remaining tagged trout while you’re there.”
Winners of the $100 Bass Pro Shops gift cards:
- Emma Chen, Bryant
- Belva Cole, Little Rock
- Jody Efird, Hot Springs
- Lewis Foreman, Romance
- Vincenta Mendoza, Little Rock
Visit www.agfc.com/familyfishing for more information on the AGFC’s Family and Community Fishing Program.
To learn more about the Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation, visit www.agff.org.