Top 5 Fishing Spots in Arkansas: Hook Your Next Trophy Fish!
Discover Arkansas’s hidden fishing gems – from trout streams to bass-filled lakes!
Hey anglers! Arkansas, the Natural State, is a fishing haven with its crystal-clear rivers, massive reservoirs, and diverse fish populations. Whether you’re targeting trout or bass, Arkansas has a spot for you. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 5 fishing spots in Arkansas, with species, pro tips, and maps to guide your next trip. Pack your tackle and let’s fish Arkansas’s best waters!
1. White River – Trout Territory
The White River below Bull Shoals Dam is a world-class trout fishery, known for its cold, clear waters.
- Location: North Arkansas
- Fish Species: Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Cutthroat Trout
- Pro Tip: Use scuds or midges in spring – trout rise like clockwork!
Gear up with the Penn Battle III – ideal for these feisty trout.
2. Lake Ouachita – Bass Bonanza
Lake Ouachita is Arkansas’s largest lake, a pristine reservoir packed with bass and crappie.
- Location: West Arkansas
- Fish Species: Largemouth Bass, Striped Bass, Crappie
- Pro Tip: Fish topwater lures near points at dawn – bass strike hard!
3. Bull Shoals Lake – Multi-Species Magic
Bull Shoals Lake spans Arkansas and Missouri, offering a variety of fish in its clear, deep waters.
- Location: North Arkansas
- Fish Species: Largemouth Bass, Walleye, Catfish
- Pro Tip: Jig near drop-offs in fall – walleye school up!
Try the Ugly Stik Elite – built for Arkansas’s big fish.
4. Little Red River – Trophy Trout
The Little Red River below Greers Ferry Dam is famous for its giant brown trout, a fly-fishing favorite.
- Location: Central Arkansas
- Fish Species: Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout
- Pro Tip: Drift sowbugs in summer – trophy browns can’t resist!
5. Lake Dardanelle – Catfish Capital
Lake Dardanelle on the Arkansas River is a catfish hotspot with plenty of bass and crappie to boot.
- Location: West-Central Arkansas
- Fish Species: Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Crappie
- Pro Tip: Use cut bait near channels at night – catfish feed heavy!
Cast Off in Arkansas!
Arkansas’s fishing spots blend natural beauty with big catches, and these top 5 locations are must-visits for any angler. Hit the water and reel in some memories. Got an Arkansas fishing tale? Drop it in the comments below!
Ready to fish? Snag the Shimano Stradic reel and explore Arkansas’s waters today!