8/8/2007

Community pond provides quality “fishing hole” to central Arkansas

ENGLAND - Families from all over the state of Arkansas continue to enjoy the long standing tradition of fishing together. One central Arkansas town has something that not all communities are fortunate enough to enjoy.

England is home to a 16-acre pond located just off Highway 165.  The lake is six feet deep and sports a 30 foot by 40 foot fishing pier along with a 20 foot wide boat ramp. Water for the lake is provided by a well that maintains the lake’s water level.

The lake has been stocked throughout the summer with a variety of fish.  According to Chris Racey, AGFC assistant family and community fisheries biologist, “’Catchable’ sized catfish were stocked into the pond by the Joe Hogan State Fish Hatchery in Lonoke. Hybrid striped bass have been stocked.  Largemouth bass fingerlings were stocked in late May and bluegill in early June which will provide anglers with an assortment of fish to catch,” Racey added.

The pond provides a handicap-accessible fishing pier, boat ramp, and several earthen jetties to aide in bank fishing.  There are also many habitat structures placed throughout the pond to provide structures for fishing.

This pond is under Community Fishing Regulations.  Fishing is open to everyone at the pond; only hand held rods or poles are allowed.  The daily creel limits are three catfish, three hybrid striped bass and 25 bluegill.  Largemouth bass may be caught, but they must be immediately released.