The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission delayed its planned catfish stocking on Monday due to persistent high temperatures. According to Maurice Jackson, the agency’s fish stocking coordinator, cooler nighttime temperatures—specifically in the 60s—are required to ensure conditions are safe for the fish before they are introduced into waterways.
Stocking is now scheduled to begin later this week, though Jackson noted that roughly 10 percent of stocked locations across the state currently have water levels too low to accommodate the fish.
The delay also highlights concerns over ongoing drought conditions affecting the region. Forecasters predict a lack of significant rainfall through November, a challenge that could further complicate waterway management and stocking schedules.
The Jim Hinkle State Fish Hatchery in Mammoth Spring recently managed to deliver and release 3,000 rainbow trout. Those fish were spread through local waterways, including a stretch from Calico Rock to Allison-Sylamore Creek. Additional trout stockings have also occurred at Norfork.
The commission says it will continue monitoring water conditions as it moves forward with its stocking efforts.