Illegal Fishing Structures Removed from Lake Overcup

First posted on 07-22-2010

It’s amazing what types of fishing contraptions you’ll find in a lake. Earlier this month, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission cleaned-up Lake Overcup, located just north of I-40 near Morrilton.

The purpose of the project was to remove illegal fishing devices and structures, in addition to metal stakes and rebar that create boating hazards. AGFC wildlife officers found an amazing array of equipment during the clean-up. The list included: pieces of cane, wood 2x4s and other wood devices for hanging setlines and yo-yos. They also found metal pipe, rebar and T-posts that were used as yo-yo and trotline hanging structures. The list went on to include PVC pipe, unattended yo-yos and trotlines.

It is legal to use fishing devices such as yo-yos, trotlines, set lines and jugs as long as they are properly labeled. All limblines, setlines, trotlines and yo-yos must be clearly labeled with the owner’s name and address or vehicle operator’s license number, or current vehicle license number of the person using the equipment.

Stakes used for mounting yo-yos, setlines or trotlines on AGFC-owned lakes must be made from wood or cane and must be removed from the lake when not in use. Permanently leaving stakes and passive fishing devices in the lake is not only illegal, but decreases the appearance of the lake. It is important for people to be aware of the regulations pertaining to these fishing devices if they choose to use them. The AGFC asks people to help keep lakes clean for everyone to enjoy by removing the equipment at the end of their day of fishing.

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