Trout Enthusiasts Pack Annual Conservation Banquet

Trout Unlimited Chapter 514 honors volunteers for trout conservation efforts in Arkansas

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Trout fishing enthusiasts gathered in Fayetteville, Arkansas for the Trout Unlimited Chapter 514 annual conservation banquet, which featured fundraising, recognition of volunteers, and a celebration of the state's thriving trout fisheries.

Why it matters

The event highlights the passion and dedication of the local trout fishing community in Arkansas, which has worked to establish and maintain world-class trout fisheries through stocking, habitat restoration, and youth education programs despite the challenges of introducing a non-native species.

The details

The banquet featured a prime rib and salmon dinner, a lively live auction that included a prized fly rod and reel belonging to the late fly fishing legend Dave Whitlock, and a silent auction with sought-after items like hand-tied flies. The event honored the chapter's volunteers for their efforts in trout conservation and mentoring new anglers.

  • The annual banquet took place on Saturday, March 5, 2026.

The players

Trout Unlimited Chapter 514

A local chapter of the national non-profit organization dedicated to coldwater fisheries conservation.

Hailey Robinson

President of the Arkansas state Trout Unlimited chapter, who spoke about incorporating trout biology and stream ecology into her high school science curriculum.

Dave Whitlock

A renowned fly fishing expert and conservationist who lived in northern Arkansas, whose fly rod and reel were auctioned off at the event.

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What they’re saying

“Trout fishermen are passionate, especially the fly fishers. Their enthusiasm for their sport and for our trout fisheries set a highly charged, festive tone for the event.”

— Bryan Hendricks, Author (nwaonline.com)

The takeaway

The Trout Unlimited Chapter 514 banquet demonstrates the vibrant trout fishing community in Arkansas, which has worked tirelessly to establish and maintain world-class trout fisheries through conservation efforts, youth education, and a deep passion for the sport.