Photo courtesy of the City of Hazen.

The City of Hazen will host its 22nd Annual Mammoth Pond Fishing Derby this Saturday, June 7, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Mammoth Pond Park. Tracie Vail with the City of Hazen said the derby is a free opportunity for children 15 years old and younger.

“A fishing license is not required,” Vail said. “We will also provide refreshments throughout the day.”

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission will stock the pond for the event, and Hazen city officials plan the fishing derby. Participants will earn prizes. Children can earn special prizes for catching tagged fish.

“Usually, the city provides all the prizes and has to pay for them. This year, I received a Walmart grant for prizes,” Vail said.

Local businesses are providing refreshments for the event.

“I want to give a shout-out to El Amigo Feliz Mexican restaurant. They will be providing water. Our city market in Hazen provides wieners and buns. Jennifer Kelly, with the Prescription Shop, will be providing the chips for the day,” Vail said.

Mammoth Pond Park is south of I-40 and east of Highway 63.

“You turn east off Highway 63 onto Mammoth Road. Parking for the derby will be located right behind the Travel Inn,” Vail said.

Registration is available on the day of the derby. Event planners ask parents to bring poles and bait for their children participating in the event. In case of inclement weather, Vail asks residents to check the city’s website for an updated event schedule.

“I will post on there when the next derby will be. We might have to reschedule,” Vail said.

For more information, contact Vail at City Hall at 870-255-4521.