5 Best Fishing Spots in Arkansas

5 Best Fishing Spots in Arkansas

The changing seasons and moderate weather here in Arkansas allows us to have some of the best year-round fishing. From streams and rivers to lakes and trout waters, Arkansas’s waters are stocked with a rainbow of fine fish. So, put out your “gone fishin’” sign and head out to one of these great Arkansas fishing spots.

1. Arkansas River

The Arkansas River is a popular location for professional fishing tournaments like Bassmasters. Pools in the Arkansas River, formed by locks and dams, are stocked by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) with bass, crappie, catfish, and other sport fish. Additionally, stripers can be found along the entire 320-mile stretch of the Arkansas River that flows through Arkansas.

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2. White River

The White River is one of the most popular fishing spots in the Natural State. While the upper section of the White River is swimming with bass, catfish, and sunfish, it’s catfish you’ll find just below Bull Shoals Dam. In recent years, the biggest trout have been caught downstream of the Houseman Access.

3. Millwood Lake

Flooded timber in this 29,000-acre lake provides the perfect environment for a variety of fish. Millwood Lake is a popular fishing lake that features bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegills. Millwood Lake is also a host various for fishing derbies and bass fishing tournaments held by local and out-of-state organizations. 

4. Spring River

The Spring River is well-known for its stream walleye fishing and also has a reputation for being unique among Arkansas trout waters. Rather than coming from deep within a manmade lake, the cold water in the Spring River comes naturally from a spring. The three-mile stretch from Mammoth Springs to Dam 3 is ideal for those that enjoy fishing from the bank or while wading.

5. Lake Ouachita

As far as fishing goes, Lake Ouachita is one of the most popular lakes in Arkansas and is well-known for its premier largemouth bass fishing. The deep, crystal-clear waters of Lake Ouachita are also ideal for large stripers, which are often caught by trolling with downriggers.