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Free outdoor fun (including fishing - no license needed!) for all from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Green Valley Park
Whether it’s catching a rainbow trout, taking aim with a bow and arrow, or getting up close and personal with live critters, the family-friendly Payson Wildlife Fair will offer a variety of outdoor fun Saturday, May 3, at Green Valley Park.
The annual event, scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., is a cooperative effort between the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD), Tonto National Forest, and the Town of Payson Parks and Recreation Department. Admission is free.
The fair will feature an archery range, fly-casting demonstrations, booths from several local and state organizations, food trucks, and lots of live wildlife. AZGFD staff members will be on hand to share and discuss the department’s various programs. There may even be a visit from Smokey Bear!
Green Valley Lake will be stocked with rainbow trout in advance of the fair. Bait and loaner fishing rods will be provided — and, as a bonus, a fishing license is not required for fair attendees! The Mogollon Sporting Association has a special sponsorship this year for youth, so be sure to check in with the fishing booth for more details.
The fair celebrates Arizona’s great outdoors and emphasizes the importance of conserving the state’s diverse wildlife species.
“It’s the perfect day to get out in the cool pines,” said Alex Flickinger, AZGFD public affairs community liaison. “We’ll have a freshly stocked lake, interesting wildlife to see up close and learn about, yummy food trucks, and fun for everyone!”