January 18, 2007

The baitfish industry did not appear in Arkansas until the mid-1940s, following World War II. The industry quickly grew and today is a major economic force in Lonoke, Prairie, Monroe, and Greene counties, where most of the state’s baitfish are raised. As of 2006, there are over sixty baitfish farms producing over six million bait minnows a year and doing in excess of $20 million in business each year. Seen here is a baitfish farm operation located in Lonoke County.