NWA Trout Unlimited Celebrates 40 Years, Investing In The Future Of Beaver's Tailwaters

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Northwest Arkansas Trout Unlimited is celebrating its 40th annual banquet, a milestone event focused on conservation, community, and investing in the next generation of anglers. The event will feature a prime rib dinner, auctions, raffles, and live music, with proceeds going towards the organization's Trout Camp program that introduces kids to fly fishing and the importance of protecting the Beaver tailwaters.

Why it matters

The Beaver tailwaters have faced recent challenges including flooding, hatchery impacts, and regulatory changes that have taken a toll on trout populations. This has affected local guides and the tourism economy, underscoring the need for ongoing conservation efforts and youth education to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of this iconic Arkansas fishery.

The details

The 40th NWA Trout Unlimited Banquet takes place on February 28th at the Fayetteville Town Center. The event will include a prime rib dinner, silent and live auctions, raffles, live music, and exclusive wildlife prints. Longtime outdoors personality Trey Reid will serve as the emcee, and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission will also have a presence. At the heart of the banquet is funding for Trout Camp, a free program that introduces kids to fly fishing, conservation education, and hands-on experiences in the Beaver tailwaters.

• The 40th NWA Trout Unlimited Banquet takes place on February 28, 2026.
• Trout Camp runs annually, providing kids with early access to the Beaver tailwaters and education on conservation.

What’s next

The 40th NWA Trout Unlimited Banquet on February 28th will be a key event for raising funds and awareness to support the organization's conservation efforts and youth education programs focused on protecting the Beaver tailwaters for generations to come.