Fishing the White River in Arkansas

If you are looking for a world-class trout fishing destination, you might want to consider the White River in Arkansas. The White River is home to four species of trout: rainbow, brown, cutthroat and brook. Some of these trout can grow to record sizes, thanks to the cold and oxygen-rich water that flows from the Bull Shoals Dam.

The White River offers a variety of fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels and preferences. You can fish from the bank, rent a boat, or hire a professional guide. You can also choose from different fishing techniques, such as spin fishing, fly fishing, or bait fishing.

However, fishing the White River also requires some adaptation and knowledge of the river conditions and trout behavior. Here are some tips to help you have a successful and enjoyable fishing trip on the White River:

• Check the water level and temperature before you go. The water level can change drastically depending on the amount of water released from the dam. This affects the current, depth, and accessibility of the river. The water temperature is usually around 50°F year-round, but it can fluctuate slightly depending on the season and weather. These factors influence how active and hungry the trout are, and where they tend to hang out.
• Look for places where trout feed and rest. Trout are usually found near bank edges, submerged structures, eddies, riffles, and pools. These areas provide shelter, food, and oxygen for the trout. Trout also prefer areas where there is a transition between fast and slow water, or shallow and deep water.
• Match your bait or lure to the natural food source. Trout feed on a variety of insects, crustaceans, and small fish that live in the river. Depending on the season and time of day, different types of food may be more abundant and attractive to the trout. For example, in the spring and summer, you may find more mayflies, caddisflies, and stoneflies hatching on the surface of the water. In the fall and winter, you may find more scuds, sowbugs, and midges in the deeper water. You can use artificial flies or lures that mimic these natural food items, or use live bait such as worms or minnows.
• Be patient and persistent. Trout fishing on the White River can be rewarding, but it can also be challenging. Sometimes you may have to try different spots, depths, baits, or lures until you find what works best for that day. Don’t give up too easily if you don’t catch anything right away. Keep trying and enjoy the scenery and wildlife along the way.

Fishing Opportunities on the White River

The White River offers a range of fishing opportunities for different types of anglers. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, you will find it on this beautiful river.

• Spin Fishing: Spin fishing is a popular technique that involves using a spinning rod and reel with various types of lures or baits attached to a line. Spin fishing is suitable for beginners as well as experienced anglers who want to cover more water and catch more fish. Spin fishing can be done from the bank or from a boat¹.
• Fly Fishing: Fly fishing is a specialized technique that involves using a fly rod and reel with artificial flies that imitate natural insects or other prey items. Fly fishing requires more skill and practice than spin fishing, but it can be very rewarding and enjoyable for those who love the challenge and artistry of this method. Fly fishing can be done from the bank or from a boat³.
• Bait Fishing: Bait fishing is a simple technique that involves using a hook with live or dead bait such as worms or minnows attached to a line with a weight or bobber. Bait fishing is easy and effective for catching trout that are feeding on natural food sources in the river. Bait fishing can be done from the bank or from a boat¹.

Trout Fishing Statistics on the White River

The White River is known for its abundance and diversity of trout. Here are some facts and figures that illustrate why this river is a premier trout fishing destination:

• The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) stocks more than 1.5 million rainbow trout into the White River every year along with fingerling stockings of cutthroat trout,
  brook trout, and brown trout².
• The AGFC also manages five public coldwater hatcheries along the White River system that produce about 2.5 million trout annually for stocking in Arkansas waters.
• The AGFC also manages five public coldwater hatcheries along the White River system that produce about 2.5 million trout annually for stocking in Arkansas waters.
• The White River holds the state records for brown trout (40 pounds 4 ounces), cutthroat trout (9 pounds 9 ounces), and brook trout (5 pounds).
• The White River also holds the world record for brown trout (caught and released) at 38 inches and 26.5 pounds.
• The White River attracts anglers from all over the world who come to experience its exceptional trout fishing. According to a 2011 survey by the AGFC, anglers spent an estimated 1.3 million days fishing on the White River and its tributaries, generating an economic impact of $86 million.

Fishing the White River in Arkansas is an experience you won’t forget. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, you will find it on this beautiful river. You will also find friendly people, comfortable lodging, and other fun activities in the area. So pack your fishing gear and head to the White River for some amazing trout fishing!

Source:
(1) White River: Trout Fishing Destination | Arkansas.com. https://www.arkansas.com/articles/white-river-trout-fishing-destination.
(2) Everything you need to know about White River, Arkansas. https://whiteriverfishingguides.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-white-river-arkansas/.
(3) Trout – Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. https://www.agfc.com/en/fishing/sportfish/trout/.

Image Source: https://photosofarkansas.com/2017/01/04/010417-featured-arkansas-photography-sunset-from-calico-rock-on-the-white-river/