Fishing Spots in Arkansas: Arkansas is a state that is blessed with a diverse range of fishing spots that cater to every type of angler. From the mountain streams and pristine lakes to the meandering rivers and expansive reservoirs, there are plenty of places to cast a line and reel in a catch. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the best fishing spots in Arkansas, covering everything from the species of fish you can catch to the best times to visit.
10 Best Fishing Spots in Arkansas
- Lake Ouachita
Located in the Ouachita National Forest, Lake Ouachita is one of the largest man-made lakes in Arkansas, covering over 40,000 acres. Known for its crystal clear waters, this lake is a favorite among anglers looking to catch striped bass, largemouth bass, and catfish. The best time to fish for these species is from late spring to early fall, with the summer months being particularly productive. Anglers can use a variety of methods to catch fish, including trolling, jigging, and live bait.
- White River
The White River is a 722-mile-long river that flows through the Ozark Mountains in northern Arkansas. It is known for its world-class trout fishing, particularly in the upper stretches of the river. The best time to fish for trout is in the spring and fall, with the peak season being from March to May. Anglers can use a variety of techniques to catch trout, including fly fishing, spin fishing, and bait fishing. Some of the most common trout species found in the White River include rainbow trout, brown trout, and cutthroat trout.
- Lake Hamilton
Located near the city of Hot Springs, Lake Hamilton is a 7,200-acre reservoir that is known for its excellent bass fishing. The lake is home to both largemouth bass and spotted bass, with the latter being more prevalent. The best time to fish for bass in Lake Hamilton is in the spring and fall, with the summer months being less productive. Anglers can use a variety of lures to catch bass, including crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater baits.
- Little Red River
The Little Red River is a 102-mile-long river that flows through the Ozark Mountains in northern Arkansas. It is known for its excellent trout fishing, particularly in the tailwaters below Greers Ferry Dam. The best time to fish for trout in the Little Red River is from late fall to early spring, with the peak season being from November to February. Anglers can use a variety of techniques to catch trout, including fly fishing, spin fishing, and bait fishing. Some of the most common trout species found in the Little Red River include rainbow trout, brown trout, and cutthroat trout.
- Lake Dardanelle
Located on the Arkansas River in western Arkansas, Lake Dardanelle is a 34,000-acre reservoir that is known for its excellent bass fishing. The lake is home to both largemouth bass and smallmouth bass, with the latter being more prevalent. The best time to fish for bass in Lake Dardanelle is in the spring and fall, with the summer months being less productive. Anglers can use a variety of lures to catch bass, including crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater baits.
- Buffalo National River
The Buffalo National River is a 153-mile-long river that flows through the Ozark Mountains in northern Arkansas. It is known for its excellent smallmouth bass fishing, particularly in the upper stretches of the river. The best time to fish for smallmouth bass in the Buffalo National River is from late spring to early fall, with the summer months being particularly productive. Anglers can use a variety of lures to catch smallmouth bass, including crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics. In addition to smallmouth bass, the Buffalo National River is also home to a variety of other fish species, including largemouth bass, catfish, and sunfish.
- Lake Greeson
Located in southwest Arkansas, Lake Greeson is a 12,000-acre reservoir that is known for its excellent crappie fishing. The best time to fish for crappie in Lake Greeson is in the spring when the fish move into shallow water to spawn. Anglers can use a variety of techniques to catch crappie, including jigging, spider rigging, and trolling. In addition to crappie, Lake Greeson is also home to bass, catfish, and bluegill.
- Beaver Lake
Located in northwest Arkansas, Beaver Lake is a 28,000-acre reservoir that is known for its excellent striped bass fishing. The best time to fish for striped bass in Beaver Lake is from late spring to early fall, with the summer months being particularly productive. Anglers can use a variety of methods to catch striped bass, including trolling, live bait fishing, and jigging. In addition to striped bass, Beaver Lake is also home to a variety of other fish species, including largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish.
- Lake Norfork
Located in northern Arkansas, Lake Norfork is a 22,000-acre reservoir that is known for its excellent bass fishing. The lake is home to both largemouth bass and smallmouth bass, with the latter being more prevalent. The best time to fish for bass in Lake Norfork is in the spring and fall, with the summer months being less productive. Anglers can use a variety of lures to catch bass, including crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater baits.
- Greers Ferry Lake
Located in north-central Arkansas, Greers Ferry Lake is a 40,000-acre reservoir that is known for its excellent walleye fishing. The best time to fish for walleye in Greers Ferry Lake is in the winter when the fish move into shallow water to spawn. Anglers can use a variety of techniques to catch walleye, including jigging, trolling, and live bait fishing. In addition to walleye, Greers Ferry Lake is also home to a variety of other fish species, including bass, crappie, and catfish.
Conclusion
Arkansas is a paradise for anglers, with a diverse range of fishing spots that cater to every type of angler. Whether you are looking to catch trout in a pristine mountain stream or reel in a trophy bass from a reservoir, there is something for everyone in Arkansas. The state is also home to a variety of other fish species, including crappie, catfish, and walleye, making it an ideal destination for anglers of all levels. So pack your gear and head to Arkansas for an unforgettable fishing adventure.
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