Arkansas Ponds Across The State Stocked With Giant-Sized Catfish

Fishing in Arkansas just got better and a whole lot bigger. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's Family and Community Fishing Program received a generous donation of catfish from the Baxter Land Company Fish Farm in Desha County.

Thousands of Big Blue Catfish Stocked

The AGF says ponds in the fishing program are being stocked with catfish across the state, ranging in size from 5 to 45 pounds. Some pretty good-sized monster catfish are out there for anglers to catch, bringing thousands of the donated big blue catfish in total weight of over 20,000 pounds.

According to the AGF, the fish are from the Baxter Land Company Fish Farm where owner Dick Baxter, Arkansas Catfish Farmer of the Year grows them from their spawning pools at the hatchery.

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Most of the big blue catfish are too big for food markets, but are vital for conservation efforts. The  Arkansas Game and Fish Commission reports that this marks the fifth time a large fish donation was awarded to the state's anglers from the Baxter Land Company Fish Farm.

Bring The Proper Fishing Gear

The AGF reminds anglers to have at least a 20-pound test fishing line and a 3/0 circle hook and to bring a dipping net because many anglers have had their lines snapped by these monster catfish. Are you up for the challenge?

For AGF rules, regulations, and resources, go here to find the nearest Family and Community Fishing Program. Happy Fishing!