Arizona’s Payson Wildlife Fair Set for Saturday, May 11
Arizona Game and Fish Department 04.22.13
With a family atmosphere that includes fishing, kayaking, BB gun and archery ranges, and displays of animals such as alligators and Gila monsters, the 19th annual Payson Wildlife Fair will be open to the public on Saturday, May 11.
The event from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Green Valley Park’s sprawling, grassy expanse is free.
“This is a great way for the family to spend a Saturday,” says Natalie Robb, field supervisor in the Payson District. “Parents and kids can fish, play games and get a close-up look at lots of amazing animals like a golden eagle or bobcat.”
Or the family can fish for a surplus of trout in Green Valley Lake, which prior to the event will receive more than double its normal stocking of trout. The park typically receives about 300 pounds of trout per stocking.
For this event, 800 pounds of fish will be released. No fishing license is required for fair attendees, and equipment and bait can be borrowed for free from an on-site fishing booth.
In addition to birds of prey, other live animals on display will include rattlesnakes, Gila monsters, small mammals (such as bats), alligators and giant pythons.
Fair visitors can test their skills at one of the casting booths, BB gun or archery ranges, or take a kayak for spin. Afterward, they can visit some of the on-hand experts and conservation groups including the Mule Deer Foundation, Payson Fly Casters, Phoenix Herpetological Society, and Tonto Natural Bridge.
The fair is a cooperative effort between the Arizona Game and Fish Department, USDA Forest Service, Mogollon Sporting Association, and Payson Parks and Recreation Department.
