Arkansas – The Jim Hinkle Spring River State Fish Hatchery wrapped up its 2024-25 winter trout stocking for the Family and Community Fishing Program by delivering truckloads of rainbow trout to various ponds in Arkansas, including Cabot, Pine Bluff, Little Rock, Conway, Maumelle, Bentonville, and Springdale. This year, the program provided approximately 57,000 rainbow trout to 40 FCFP locations, offering ample opportunities for Arkansans to enjoy winter trout fishing.
B.J. Vandiver, the hatchery manager at Spring River, highlighted the commitment of the hatchery crew in ensuring that all FCFP locations received their fish. The hatchery, located just minutes from the Arkansas-Missouri state line, is the only state-owned coldwater trout facility in Arkansas. It plays a crucial role in stocking all FCFP locations with trout, especially during the winter months when cold water conditions are ideal for trout fishing.
Vandiver explained that stocking trout for FCFP requires extended hours and a great deal of planning. In addition to regular monthly stockings, the hatchery crew must maintain optimal conditions for the fish during transport, ensuring temperatures and oxygen levels are stable on the road. Careful handling and release practices are also followed to minimize stress on the fish and ensure their survival in the water.
In addition to the successful stocking efforts, Vandiver noted that the FCFP team employed some creative thinking to generate more excitement around the winter trout stockings. The collaboration between hatchery staff and the community has made this year’s winter trout angling opportunities a success, providing Arkansas residents with a chance to enjoy fishing in the colder months.