Friends of the Norfork National Fish Hatchery

Keep Arkansas Fishing

Welcome To the Hatchery

Welcome to the Norfork National Fish Hatchery, the top tourist destination in Baxter County and North Central Arkansas. Situated in the heart of the Ozarks near the North Fork River and Norfork Lake Dam, the hatchery raises 2.5 million Brown, Rainbow, and Cutthroat Trout each year to stock Arkansas's waterways. It is also home to Dry Run Creek, considered by many as one of the premier fishing streams in the nation for youth under 16 and individuals with mobility impairments. Designed by renowned author and artist Dave Whitlock for optimal fish habitat and growth, Dry Run Creek is open year-round for anglers and hosts various fishing events, the Dry Run Creek Academy, and numerous school field trips annually. Children not only get to learn more about trout but also have an incredible chance to catch the massive fish that dwell in its waters.

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What We Do From Events to Hooking Fish

The Norfork National Fish Hatchery has been stocking trout in Arkansas's world famous White and Norfork Rivers since 1955. The hatchery's efforts generate an estimated $100 million dollars for the state of Arkansas each year in fishing revenue. From science projects and fly tying classes, to kids' fishing derbys, Hatchery Outdoor Adventures, and our wonderful annual events, the Norfork Hatchery welcomes you and looks forward to your visit with us!

Activities

Our Waters

Lend A Hand Everyone Can Help

How can you be a part of this organization and make a difference? There are plenty of ways to contribue your time or talents to Friends of the Nofork Hatchery! We need volunteers for annual events like the fishing derby and our Outdoor Adventure, help with running and maintaining the visitor center and gift shop, clean up and more. Please reach out and let us know how you would like to help.

Volunteer

Snapping Fish & Photos

Gallery

Get Involved Activities For Everyone

Ranked as one of the top retirement locations and fishing destinations in the world, North Arkansas and its pristine cold and warm water rivers and lakes hold some of the highest numbers of fish per square mile than most any other in the country. From Brown, Cutthroat and Rainbow Trout, to our warm water species like Largemouth, Smallmouth, Perch, Crappie, Catfish, Walleye and Striper, its hard to beat our area if you like to fish and easy to see why so many call this region home.

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The Hatchery Outdoor Adventure is an annual event held on the first Saturday after Labor Day at the Norfork National Fish Hatchery. This free, family-friendly event is open to all ages and focuses on fun and educational outdoor activities. Various organizations, civic groups, businesses, and dedicated individuals come together to provide hands-on experiences for children and their parents or guardians, promoting learning and exploration in the great outdoors. The event highlights the hatchery and fishery while fostering an appreciation for our ecosystem and encouraging good environmental stewardship.

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Located in Salesville, Arkansas, next the Norfork Lake Dam, The Norfork National Fish Hatchery welcomes over 250,000 visitors year round. Whether you are looking to learn more about trout and their habitat, have an opportunity to fish with your kids or grandchildren or just passing the time, the Norfork Hatchery will keep you entertained.

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Many schools from around the Twin Lakes Region and the state of Arkansas come and visit the Norfork National Fish Hatchery each year to enjoy a day dedicated to the outdoors and trout. Last year, 15 schools visited the hatchery to spend a fun filled day with the staff of the hatchery and volunteers from our friends group. These children get the opportunity to learn about a number of things including classes on fish biology, fish habitat, conservation efforts, fly tying and fishing in general.

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