This story was published in partnership with Arkansas Tourism.
Opportunity abounds for the angler looking to fish in Arkansas. The Natural State lives up to its moniker, with 90,000 miles of flowing rivers and streams, and 600,000 acres of water contained by the shores of lakes scattered throughout the state. From 100-pound-plus blue catfish along the Mississippi to bluegill from the bank, there’s something here for every person in search of a tug on the end of their line.
There are six major rivers flowing through Arkansas: the White, Arkansas, Mississippi, St. Frances, Ouachita, and Red. Dams have been built along these waterways by the Corp of Engineers to create legendary lakes like Ouachita, Beaver, Bull Shoals, and Norfork. Bass, crappie, walleye, catfish, trout, and more flourish in these waters and the streams that flow into them.
If you’re over the age of 16, there’s a good chance you’ll need a fishing license to fish in the state of Arkansas. There are several options for licenses depending on what you’re fishing for, where you’ll be fishing, and how long you’ll be fishing. There are also various discounted licenses for anglers older than 65, active military, disabled veterans, and more. To find the right license for you, visit Arkansas Game and Fish’s website and click “Get a License.”
To give you a taste of the fishing that Arkansas has to offer, we’ve broken the state down into its six regions: Ozarks, Arkansas River Valley, Ouachitas, Central, Delta, and Timberlands. In the sections below, we’ll tour each region and provide recommendations on the best fisheries, eateries, tackle shops, and more. We’ll also provide expert fishing tips for each region that will help you set yourself up for success the next time you hit the water.
Region 1: Ozarks
Known for the jagged Ozark Mountains that burst forth from this region, the Ozarks are also home to the well-known lakes of Bull Shoals, Norfolk, and Beaver. Although these lakes and other fisheries in this region offer fantastic fishing for bass, crappie, walleye, and catfish, it’s the trout fishing in the Ozarks’ creeks and tailwaters that makes this region a standout.
Millions of trout are stocked annually in Arkansas. The White and Little Red Rivers, in particular, are phenomenal. There are multiple species of trout to target in the White River, and the Little Red River boasts the one-time world-record brown trout. Here’s a little more information on these fisheries and others in the region.
Hot Spots
White River/Bull Shoals Tailwater: There are four types of trout to chase on the White River: rainbow, brown, cutthroat, and brook. Several of these fish reach trophy size, and many more in the 19- to 24-inch range are caught here.
Dry Run Creek/North Fork River: Dry Run, another great trout fishery, is open only to kids and disabled anglers. It’s an amazing little fishery. If you’re a disabled angler or a child under 16 years of age, you can practice catch-and-release along this waterway. But only artificial lures with barbless hooks are permitted.
Little Red River: The Little Red River is Arkansas’s only 100-percent wild, self-sustaining brown trout fishery. And don’t forget, this river is home to the one-time world-record brown trout weighing 40 pounds, 4 ounces—still the 4-pound line-class world record.
Buffalo River: Smallmouth bass are the dominant species in the upper Buffalo River with fish over 18 inches caught regularly. These are hard-fighting fish that are fantastic memory makers.
Crooked Creek: As is the case with the Buffalo National River, Crooked Creek is also recognized as a blue-ribbon smallmouth stream. This White River tributary regularly produces great numbers of smallmouth in the 10- to 15-inch range, with big fish over 18 inches caught at times as well.
When To Go
White River: November - March
Little Red River: November - March
Buffalo River: March - September
Where to Stay and Eat
Gaston’s White River Resort: Talk about catering to your every angling need! But they don’t stop there. The restaurant even offers a “line-to-table” service, where the chef will take your fresh catch and either pan-sear, broil, or fry it.
Lindsey’s Resort on the Little Red River: The Restaurant at Lindsey’s will cook your fresh catch up for you too, or you can choose from the other menu staples including a juicy 18-ounce charbroiled ribeye. Once your belly’s full, retreat to one of the beautiful rustic cabins on site or bring your tent or RV to camp instead. There are lots of options at Lindsay’s Resort.
Fishing Like a Local
Johnny Brazil will talk your ear off about chasing smallmouth in the Ozarks if you stop by Jackalope Cycling and give him half a chance. He’s a big fan of fishing for smallmouth on the Buffalo River and Crooked Creek where warm waters in the 60- to 70-degree range create ideal conditions for smallmouth activity. But it’s the trout fishing that many want to know about in this region.
“White River, plus the Norfork that dumps into it at Saleville area/Norfork Town, and then the Red River–those are three of the top 50 tailwaters in the nation,” Brazil says.
The conditions are ideal for trout fishing throughout this region, with hydroelectric dams releasing rushing water to create tailwaters for the fish to feed and flourish in. Water temps are ideal, in the upper 50s. And there’s an endless supply of food, with a shad kill in late February or early March, caddis in April and hoppers lasting through the summer on the White.
“On lots of rivers in the nation, a 24-inch brown is kind of a lifetime brown,” Brazil says. “A 30-inch brown, for us, is a lifetime brown. We’re definitely in another bracket on the White. The ecosystem is just so good.”
“Another thing on the White,” Brazil adds, “is you can fish streamers year-round. Since it is a hydroelectric dam, they pump water through and when that big water gets pushing, you can throw some 6- to 8-inch Double Deceivers, kind of like you would a jerkbait, and catch giant browns as well.”
Gearing Up
The Natural State Fly Shop: A great place for fly anglers to visit to gain insight into the tricks of the trade in this area.
Rock Springs Bait and Tackle: A variety of tackle for most anything you’d want to chase in the panfish and bass arena.
Local Regulations
There are a few fishing regulations specific to tailwaters of Greer’s Ferry on the Little Red River. If you plan to fish there, you’ll want to make sure you’re aware of these regulations.
Region 2: Arkansas River Valley
If your angling interests skew more toward largemouth bass, then the Arkansas River Valley is the region for you. This fertile river basin is full of prime breeding grounds for largemouth bass to spawn and flourish. From the oxbows and backwaters out to the main river channels, there’s plenty of forage for predatory fish to feed on. And this area has a great tournament fishing scene too.
The majority of the Arkansas River Valley is confined to the Arkansas River itself, from Fort Smith down through Lake Dardanelle and beyond. But this stretch of the river is still one of the best and most diverse of the state for largemouth bass, and crappie too.
Hot Spots
Lake Dardanelle: Lake Dardanelle along the Arkansas River has long hosted local tournaments and has played host to several national-level professional events as well. The shallow, fertile waters of this fishery make it great for growing big bass. And if you’re interested in targeting crappie, Dardanelle is the destination you seek as well. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission stocks black crappie in Lake Dardanelle—as many as 100,825 in a year in 2022—to make an already great crappie fishery that much better.
Arkansas River: When it comes to targeting catfish, you’ll find some fine action beneath the Ozark-Jetta Taylor Lock & Dam. As with any tailwater fishery, you’ll have to be very careful whether fishing from bank or boat. But there are flatheads, channel cats, and blue catfish to be had. If tying into a Volkswagen Beatle on the bottom of the lake sounds like a good time to you, lob your bait out in these tailwaters and hold on tight.
Horsehead Lake: What this 98-acre impoundment lacks in size, it makes up for in variety. A fishery known for its largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, and channel catfish, Horsehead Lake is the perfect place to go exploring in your kayak, canoe, or johnboat. And since there’s a no-wake limitation on the lake, it’s that much easier to enjoy your day with one of these rides paired with a smaller motor, trolling motor, pedal drive or paddle.
When To Go
Lake Dardanelle: March - May
Arkansas River: May - September
Horsehead Lake: March - November
Where to Stay and Eat
Lake Dardanelle State Park: If you’re looking for a great place to camp, Lake Dardanelle State Park will suit your fancy. There’s no restaurant here, but there are campsites ready for everything from tents to full-size RVs in need of full hookups. There’s also a fishing pier, boardwalk, walking trail, and swimming beach.
Russellville Marina: Looking for a nice cabin to set up shop for the week or weekend? Russellville Marina has three for you to choose from. These cabins come with fully furnished and equipped kitchens, and there’s also a laundry facility on site.
Holiday Inn Express: Some people like to take the guesswork out of booking accommodations and would just rather know what they’re getting into. If that’s you, then there’s a fantastic Holiday Inn Express in Russellville waiting to assign you a room. Free breakfast, daily housekeeping, a pool, a fitness center, and Wi-Fi.
Horsehead Lake Lodge & Cabins: If you’re looking for the perfect wedding venue or just wanting to getaway with your bride of 40 years, Horsehead Lake Loge & Cabins has something to suit every need. Sure, you and your fishing buddies could bunk up in the 2,500-square-foot main cabin, one of the waterfall cabins or even a glamping site, but this place has romantic getaway written all over it. Still, be sure to bring your fishing poles and schedule a little time to slip out to make a cast or two.
Prestonrose Towne Bistro: The Prestonrose Towne Bistro is an elevated farm-to-table restaurant in Clarksville where you can sample the finest local fare. And there are several items you won’t find anywhere else, like emu burgers and Ukrainian cabbage rolls. If you’re looking for something less run-of-the-mill and more Manhattan-meets-Maybery, check this one out.
Kaspers: Kaspers in Clarksville is the kind of place where good things come to those who wait. The staff makes no apologies for taking their time to do things right when preparing your steak, but they do commit to putting perfection on your plate as reward for your patience. If you’re not in the mood for steak, there’s plenty more on the menu at this elevated dining establishment.
Pasta Grill: If Italian is more your speed, you’re going to need to pop into Pasta Grill in downtown Russellville. There’s plenty of foreign fare to choose from, as well as mouth-watering steaks and seafood. Pro tip: Try the redfish pasta.
Ridgewood Brothers: You can’t come to Arkansas without eating barbeque and you can’t eat barbeque in Russellville without sampling what Ridgewood Brothers are smoking. BBQ is a passion for Robert Crouser and Grant Hall, which is evidenced by their daily start time of 2 am, when they arrive on site to start working the fire and preparing for the lunch rush.
Old Bank: With golf simulators, live music, and way better than your average bar food, Old Bank is an elevated sports bar with a lot to offer the weary outdoorsmen. Located in downtown Russellville, this is a great place to recuperate after a long day on the water.
Point Remove Brewing: Situated in the center of Morrilton, this downtown Russellville refuge is the perfect place to slip in and sample a local brew or snag a pizza.
Old South: The Old South Restaurant is the go-to classic diner in Russellville. A local breakfast spot that is so good it even saw the likes of two presidents and the King (Elvis Presley) stop in for a meal. Although the original building where Old South had been serving up home cooking since 1947 burned down in 2023, the legends of this restaurant live on in their new location.
Natural State Coffee: In need of a cup of joe? Stop by one of Natural State Coffee’s locations across the River Valley. Though there are several locations, this local coffee shop is no chain. The mantra here, “People first, then coffee.”
Brown’s Catfish: Do you want some good old fashion southern-fried catfish? Well, Brown’s Catfish in Russellville has got it. They have all the farm-raised catfish you can eat, with fried or boiled shrimp, seafood gumbo, and even BBQ pork ribs to boot. But don’t fill all the way up on all this goodness—there are cinnamon rolls for dessert that you must try.
Fat Daddy’s BBQ: Another great BBQ joint, Fat Daddy’s BBQ has two different locations. Both have the same great food, but two different experiences. The Russellville location downtown has great BBQ as well as steaks, chicken, and seafood. The London Gas Station location has the same food with more of a hole-in-the-wall feel, with quick access to the lake.
CJ’s Butcher Boy Burgers: CJ’s Butcher Boy Burgers has been serving up fresh, in-house ground chuck shoulder burgers for the last two decades. With one location in Fayetteville and the other in Russellville, the crew at CJ’s keeps it simple.
Fishing Like a Local
Scott Black of Keeping it Crappie guide service fished for bass professionally once upon a time but has since changed his quarry to crappie, after moving to Arkansas years back. With 100-fish days commonplace for this crappie guide, he’s learned quite a bit about the species.
“They're typically cold water fish,” Black says. “If we're looking for truly giant fish and you're looking for one to put on the wall, the winter time is always gonna be the best time to go. The fish are bigger, they're fatter and they like the cold water.”
The perfect temperature for crappie fishing according to Black is between 55 and 65 degrees. In the winter, the crappie stage on the main river ledges feeding on schools of bait. As the spawn progresses in the spring, the males move into shallow water, from 4 to 8 feet, and position near structure. Then come the big females. The fish spawn in nearby shallow water and then they move back out to stage. The mature females will do this two or three times a cycle according to Black.
“Once summertime gets here, Dardanelle is probably one of the best structure fishing lakes in the state,” Black says. “The brushpiles will have 50 to 100 fish in every pile just about. It's really stupid how good it gets there in the summertime. The hotter it gets, they're still in 10 to 12 feet of water on brush and you're still catching pound-and-a-half-to-2-pound fish on a regular basis.”
A really big crappie for Dardanelle will come in between 2 ½ and 3 pounds. Though he’s only caught one true 3-pound crappie on Dardanelle, Black has had several days where he catches a dozen or more fish averaging better than 2 ½ pounds.
Gearing Up
Marina Road Bait and Outdoors: Minutes away from Quita Boat Ramp and Lake Dardanelle State Park you’ll find Marina Road Bait and Outdoors, which offers live and frozen bait as well as other angling necessities like hooks, bobbers, and poles.
Russellville Marina & Boat Repair: Perched right on the shores of Lake Dardenelle, Russellville Marina and Boat Repair offers boat slips, fishing tips, and live bait.
Jackalope Cycling: You’ll find light fly-fishing gear at this bike shop, as well as a crew that’s always looking to have a good time and talk fishing.
BMT Outdoors: Just east of Lake Darndenalle, BMT Outdoors has almost anything you could need for an outdoor excursion, including a wide selection of bass fishing gear.
Feltner’s Athlete's Corner: Premium outdoor and sports apparel can be found at Feltner’s Athlete’s Corner.
Region 3: Ouachitas
Welcome to the Ouachitas Region, also known as the Diamond Lakes Region. Here you’ll find phenomenal fishing opportunities once again as well as tons of fun for the whole family, whether they’re interested in fishing or not.
For starters, there are five large lakes and three rivers to choose from in this region: lakes Oachita, Greeson, DeGray, Hamilton, and Catherine; and rivers Ouachita, Caddo or Little Missouri. You’ll find that opportunities are plentiful in this region to camp, swim, bird watch, water ski, and more. Add to this the opportunities to shop, dine, golf, and even dig for diamonds—literally—and there’s truly something in the Ouachitas for every member of the family to enjoy.
Hot Spots
Lake Ouachita: Lake Ouachita is a great fishery for targeting largemouth bass, as well as stripers, crappie, catfish, and walleye. This 40,000-acre lake holds primarily clear water with a few stained creeks scattered about.
Lake Hamilton (Below Blakely Dam): You can venture below Blakely Dam onto the headwaters of Lake Hamiliton to target rainbow trout in this region. These trout are stocked annually starting in November at a size big enough to catch, to provide anglers in the southern part of the state with the opportunity to fish for trout. But this opportunity expires once the water begins to warm in March.
DeGray Lake: DeGray Lake offers a wide array of angling opportunities. This impoundment on the Caddo River is a more modest 13,400 acres as compared to the massive Ouachita. But what it lacks in size it makes up for in opportunity, with great bass, striped bass, and hybrid bass fishing. If you like to get out of the wind when you fish, you can take your pick of the near countless coves on DeGray and likely find one all to yourself.
Caddo River: If you’re looking for a pristine smallmouth fishery, you’ll find one flowing from the Ouachita Mountains down to DeGray Lake by the name of the Caddo River. Blanketed with gravel and rock and sprinkled with boulders and deeper pools, the Caddo River is perfect for floating in search of a monster smallmouth.
Ouachita River: The Ouachita River flows into this region from the northwest corner all the way out of the Ouachitas through the southeast corner. Along that pathway, dams have been constructed to form Lakes Ouachita, Hamilton, and Catherine. On these stretches of the river between these lakes, there are outstanding opportunities to catch several species of bass, catfish, crappie, bream, walleye, and even trout.
When To Go
Lake Ouachita: March - August
Lake Hamilton: November - March
Caddo River: June - August
Ouachita River: November - April
Where to Stay and Eat
DeGray Lake Resort State Park: Whether you're looking for a quick getaway with the family or you need a site to host your next work conference, the DeGray Lake Resort State Park has you covered. There is an onsite restaurant, a 300-seat conference center, 90 rooms in the lodge, and 113 campsites. There’s even an 18-hole championship golf course on site.
Riverview Cabins and Canoe: Perched right on the edge of the Ouachita River, Riverview Cabins and Canoes is the perfect little hideaway to go enjoy a week in the woods listening to the river wash by while it carries your cares away with it. Whether you want horseback trail riding, mountain biking, hiking, ATVs, or just plain chilling out, these cabins are for you.
Rockhound Boutique: Built in 1920, the Rockhound Boutique is likely a little off the beaten path for most anglers, just up the road from Twin Creeks on Lake Ouachita. But if you have a keen interest in geodes, you’ll find your people here. Mount Ida is known as the Quartz Crystal Capitol of the World, hosting the annual World Championship Quartz Crystal Dig. Worth a look if you’re interested in an eccentric spot with modern amenities and a whole lot of history.
Mountain Harbor Resort and Lake Ouachita State Park: The Mountain Harbor Resort at Lake Ouachita is spread out over 900 acres of Lake Ouachita State Park. Accommodations include cabanas, guest rooms, cottages, studios, camp sites, and more. The Harbor Lodge Restaurant is open for all three meals 7 days a week from March through Thanksgiving. Boat slips, spa treatments, and more are available here on the shores of Lake Ouachita.
Caddo River Camping & Canoe: If you’re up for a little float trip, the folks at Caddo River Camping & Canoe can hook you up. They provide the rafts, tubes, kayaks, and canoes for you to be able to set sail on a peaceful stretch of the Caddo River just above DeGray Lake. Take in the scenery, enjoy the tranquility, and make memories—whether you’re just going for a float or opt to stay overnight in one of their various camp sites. There’s even a bathhouse with indoor plumbing and hot showers in case you’re not in the mood to really rough it. Cabins and bunkhouses are available too.
PH Property Management: Looking for a luxury stay on the shores of the Caddo River and want a place all to yourself? Try the Surf Shack! This beautiful home sleeps 16. It’s a great place to get away with the whole family, the bridal party or all your buddies and then some.
Shangri-La Resort: Just down the road from Hot Springs on the shores of Lake Ouachita, the Shangri-La Resort has everything the angler needs, including a marina, lodging, a cafe, and the best pies.
Burl’s Smokehouse: If you find yourself on the south side of Lake Ouachita traveling on Highway 270, be sure to stop by Burl’s Smokehouse. Essentially a functioning museum with more antiques and ambiance than a Cracker Barrel, this place is a spectacle to behold. If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll probably even be holding one of Burl’s famous dinner-plate-sized cinnamon rolls before you know it.
Cajun Boilers: Near Lake Hamilton and have a hankering for gumbo, étouffée, shrimp and grits, or boudin? The crew at Cajun Boilers knows just how to scratch that itch. One of the finest eateries in Hot Springs, this place packs your plate full of food at a fair price.
Ari’s Little Italy Restaurant: In or near Glenwood and more interested in some Italian cuisine? Try Ari’s Little Italy Restaurant. Ari’s offers more than the run of the meal pizza and spaghetti. This little hole-in-the-wall find has homemade pastas, soups, and pizzas as well as rare authentic dishes like veal picatta, tilapia alla ari, seafood fettuccine alfredo, and lobster ravioli.
Sunbay Resort: Over on Lake Hamilton, you’ll find the Sunbay Resort. Stop in for a meal at the Back Porch Grill, stay the night or the week in the lodge or one of their lakeview villas.
Fishing Like a Local
Daryl Morris of Family Fishing Trips Guide Service has been guiding in the Ouacitas for over 21 years. Focusing his efforts on getting kids and their families involved in fishing, Morris even offers for kids in the party under 12 to tag along for free.
Morris rotates between targeting different species depending on the season. His expertise is in crappie fishing, but he’s also quite fond of chasing spotted bass, also known as “Kentuckies,” in the summer months.
“I love spoons,” Morris says. “Spoons are one of my favorite go-tos. I can fish one anywhere from topwater to vertical jigging. When all else fails, throw some crankbaits out in the water and troll. Early in the morning they’re going to be feeding, then towards the afternoon we're going to be trolling.”
Situated near the shores of Lake Ouachita, the Family Fishing Trips Guide service offers trips on various lakes in the region for a wide variety of species. They can put you on crappie, largemouth, spotted bass, walleye, bream, catfish, white bass, and hybrid striper on Lake Hamilton, Lake Ouachita, Lake DeGray, and Lake Greeson.
Gearing Up
Bass Boys Tackle Company: One-stop shop with all things fishing in the Crystal Springs/Joplin area.
Sportsman’s Warehouse: Gear for all things outdoors, including tackle for targeting trout, bass, crappie and more.
Trader Bill’s Outdoor Sports: A wide array of bass fishing gear and expert tips on how to use it.
Twin Rivers Bait and Tackle: Basic tackle for various species and live bait near the Caddo and Ouachita Rivers.
Family Fishing Trips guide Service: Daryl Morris offers a “catch-you-dinner” guarantee, good for a by-one-get-one coupon if the trip doesn’t go as planned. There’s a little fine print on his site, but that’s a pretty good deal there.
Region 4: Central
Though the Central Region of Arkansas has Little Rock at its center, this is one of the smaller regions of the state by sheer surface area. Lake Maumelle is the area's largest lake, and it is a fine fishery for targeting bass and crappie in particular. There are some very specific rules when fishing here though—like no swimming and no boats under 14 feet long—since Maumelle is Little Rock’s primary water source.
Bouncing around the region, there are also a few smaller fisheries that still pack a big punch, like Harris Brake and Brewer Lake, known for their crappie and largemouth bass. Lake Nimrod also sneaks into the west side of this region, with great bass, crappie, catfish, and bream fishing.
Hot Spots
Harris Brake Lake: Constructed in 1955, this 1,300-acre lake is full of crappie. As is the case throughout much of Arkansas, crappie must be at least 10 inches in length to keep. Harris Brake has ample cover and structure to create a prime crappie fishery, with an average depth of 10 feet and a max depth of 28.
Brewer Lake: Great for largemouth bass fishing, Brewer Lake’s shorelines are littered with stumps, brush, and vegetation. This cover rich environment makes the 1,100-acre lake ideal for bass to breed, hunt, and seek refuge. All state regulations apply here, with the exception that any largemouth bass caught between 13 and 16 inches must be released immediately.
Lake Maumelle: Seventy miles of shoreline encompass the 8,600-acre Lake Maumelle. About 20 miles west of Little Rock, this fishery is a favorite for white bass and crappie anglers. Since Maumelle is used for Little Rock’s drinking water, there are several regulations specific to this fishery that you’ll need to be aware of.
Lake Nimrod: Though Lake Nimrod is famous for large slab crappie, it’s also a superb fishery for largemouth bass, bream, catfish, and white bass. Situated between the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, this 3,550-acre lake has the oldest US Army Corp of Engineers dam in Arkansas, completed in 1942.
When To Go
Harris Brake Lake: December - May
Brewer Lake: March - June
Lake Maumelle (largemouth/spotted bass): March - April
Lake Maumelle (crappie): May - February
Lake Nimrod: Spring and Fall
Where to Stay and Eat
Harris Brake Lake Resort: You’ll find numerous lodging options at Harris Brake Lake Resort, from cabins to motel rooms to RV rentals. Want to bring your own home on wheels with you? They have full service hookups for RVs as well. There’s even a tackle shop right on the water with live bait to set you up with all you need for a day out on the water.
The Weekender RV & Cabins: Interested in fishing on Lake Nimrod and perhaps exploring a state park or two? Well, there are four within a short drive of the Weekender RV & Cabins, and Lake Nimrod is less than a half hour away. You’ll find 23 full-hookup RV sites as well as three cabins at the Weekender.
Fishing Like a Local
Eric Watts runs a guide service in Central Arkansas by the name of Natural State Fishing. Watts specializes in crappie with Lake Maumelle as his primary fishery. “Summer through winter, it is one of the best crappie fisheries in Central Arkansas,” Watts says. “It is a clear water lake with tons of black crappie in it. It’s a lake that requires some know-how to catch them.”
Watts considers Maumelle a “finesse lake” not a “power-fishing lake.” The difference between these two types of fisheries is substantial. On a power-fishing lake, an angler can get right on top of the fish and drop down on them with a long pole and heavy weight. But on a finesse lake like Maumelle, it’s not as simple. “We are primarily casting to these crappie,” Watts says. “You’ve got to keep your distance. It's similar to one of the more popular lakes out of state, Dale Hollow, in terms of approach to it.”
Watts stated that he has to fish with 1/32-ounce jigheads typically, and even downsize to 1/64 ounce at times. He went on to say the crappie in Maumelle are primarily cover and structure oriented, meaning they like to relate to brush, breaks and other irregularities. This is mainly the case in the summer and winter. In the fall and spring, the fish roam more and are harder to target.
“Nimrod is another phenomenal fishery just about year-round,” Watts says. “It probably has more crappie per acre than any other lake in the state, possibly in the country. Brewer Lake is another great lake with great crappie fishing year-round.”
Gearing Up
Trader Bill’s Outdoor Sports: If you’re on the west side of the Central Region, there’s a Trader Bill’s near Lake Hamilton. And there’s also one on the south side of Little Rock. One great store in two locations.
Bate’s Field and Stream: Fishing north of Little Rock? Stop in at Bate’s Field and Stream where they can take care of any crappie, bass, or catfishing needs.
Fish ‘N Stuff: If you’re looking for some stuff to go fishing, Fish ‘N Stuff is bound to have what you need. This place has got it and shopping here is more like a full-on experience.
Hatchet Jacks Sports Shop: Just north of Little Rock is Hatchet Jacks Sports Shop. With gear mostly tailored to live bait fishing, Hatchet Jacks has a variety of live bait options, weights, bobbers, rods, reels, and more.
Greers Ferry Bait and Tackle: Loaded with all sorts of quality bass fishing gear, Greers Ferry Bait and Tackle also has live bait on site.
Natural State Fishing: Eric Watts specializes in crappie fishing on Lake Maumelle, with two decades of experience fishing and considerable knowledge of other fisheries in Central Arkansas.
Region 5: Delta
If you’re interested in catching big “slab” crappie, come on over to the Delta and wet a line. This eastern region of the state is home to many species, including bass, catfish, bluegill, and redear. But it’s the crappie fishing in places like Connerly Bayou off Lake Chicot that make the region famous.
Then again, if you want something that will truly put up a fight, try tying into one of the big blue cats that swim up and down the Mississippi River. The Delta runs the length of the east side of the state, following the meandering Mississippi as it rolls on towards the gulf. Along its path, in places like Helena, Arkansas, you have a chance to catch a whisker wearing fish of a lifetime, if you know when and where to go.
Hot Spots
Lake Grampus: In the southeast corner of the state lies Lake Grampus, a 300-acre oxbow off Bayou Bartholomew full of cypress trees, stumps, and vegetation. This fishery has a good bluegill and redear population, as well as quality crappie fishing.
Lake Chicot: The largest natural lake in Arkansas and the largest oxbow lake in the country, Lake Chicot sits just west of the Mississippi River along the Mississippi-Arkansas border. This 22-mile-long former bend in the river is loaded with multiple species of fish, but it’s best known for its crappie. Connerly Bayou, a tributary of Lake Chicot, is one of the best crappie fisheries in the state.
Mississippi River at Helena: In east central Arkansas, right next to the state line, Helena is home to some awesome blue catfish waters. This section of the Mississippi sees fish heavier than 50 pounds caught regularly, with some true trophies even larger than that caught at times—including the state record 116-pound 12-ounce blue cat caught in 2001.
When To Go
Lake Grampus: April – June
Lake Chicot: March - May
Where to Stay and Eat
Cabins at Lake Chicot State Park: Camping, cabins, boat rentals, and a pool equates to a whole lot of fun available at Lake Chicot State Park near the Arkansas-Mississippi border. Class AAA sites are available with water, sewer, and 50-amp service. Just bring your rod and reel and a little bait and they’ll have everything else you need.
Storm Creek Cabins at Mississippi River State Park: Tent camping, RV sites, and cabins are available if you want to visit the Storm Creek Cabins at Mississippi River State Park. Keep in mind that you’ll need to bring your own bedding if you want to stay in one of the cabins.
Delta Dirt Distillery: Over 21 and interested in learning how spirits are made? Stop by and see the Williams family at Delta Dirt Distillery. This family has farmed the same 86 acres of rich Arkansas Delta Dirt for four generations, since “Papa” Joe Williams started farming the land as a sharecropper. Papa Joe’s son was able to buy the land in 1949, using proceeds he made selling cotton and homemade corn-liquor moonshine. A lot of history and an amazing story to be heard here.
Fishing Like a Local
Colten Riordan of Cat-Nappers guide service loves catching catfish on the Mississippi River, where giant blue cats roam. The Arkansas State Record, a 116-pound, 12-ounce river monster, was pulled from these waters near Helena, Arkansas in 2001 by Charles Ashley Jr. Though Riordan hasn’t caught one near that size yet, his personal best blue cat of 55 pounds is still an impressive fish. When heading out on the Mississippi, Riordan looks at two things to determine where he’ll go and how he’ll fish on that day: the water level and the flow.
“You lose a lot of spots whenever the water is really high, especially when it's covering the rock dikes,” Riordan says. “A lot of spots you can normally anchor up in or Spot Lock in are gonna be gone.”
When the water is at normal level, there are jetties and dikes that create current breaks, eddies and current seams. Anchoring in these areas of slack water allows an angler to fish for catfish that are perusing the bottom in search of food that’s being washed right to them. When conditions are stable like this, there are a few ways to find the fish.
“You can suspend some baits, mark some fish, look for holes, cast on them, however you want to do it,” he says. “My rod of choice is a Meat Hunter Rod and 80-pound braid usually and man just Santee Cooper style riggings.
Riordan’s Santee Cooper Rig consists of an 80-pound braided main line tied to a three-way swivel that has 24 to 36 inches of an 80-pound monofilament leader tied to it. He runs his leader through a float and then ties his hook to the end of his leader.
Using the remaining ring of the three-way swivel, Riordan attaches a sinker. This Santee Cooper Rig keeps the bait near the bottom, but just up off the bottom far enough for a catfish to have an easier time finding it.
“Your hooks are dangling basically, and they're adjustable. If you want to keep your bait 12 inches off bottom, just adjust your float.”
Riordan has personally seen an 80-pound blue cat weighed in during a tournament on the Mississippi. A couple weeks before these words were written, he heard of a 98-pound blue weighed in a tournament.
“We caught 12 fish today,” he says. “Five of them over 20 and one was 37.”
Gearing Up
Pop Pop’s Bait and Tackle: If you’re going catfishing and you need anything, just stop by Pop Pop’s in Poplar Grove. Don’t let the facade fool you. Pop Pop has all the rods, reels, bait, line, and rigs you could possibly need.
Regions 6: Timberlands
Settling into the bottom section of the state, the Timberlands region is home to some tremendous bass fishing in the Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge. This 76,000 acre refuge has a watering hole available in every direction. The Ouachita River, Saline River, and Felenthal Pool account for the majority of the water in this area in particular.
Great fishing is also available throughout the south of the state, from giant bass on Millwood Lake to fantastic crappie fishing on Millwood and Erling, stellar catfishing on White Oak Lake and the list goes on. There’s something with fins to suit every angler’s desire in the Timberlands. Come on down and see for yourself.
Hot Spots
Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge: A network of sloughs, streams, and rivers blend together in the Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge to foster the perfect environment for excellent largemouth bass fishing. Recent surveys done by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission revealed large numbers of bass between 11 and 15 inches, with a few trophies over 21 inches sampled.
Millwood Lake: In the southwest corner of the state you’ll find Millwood Lake, a body of water known for its largemouth bass fishing. In fact, on March 6, 2025, 18-year-old Griffin Ralph boated a bass weighing 13.43 pounds on Millwood while participating in a local tournament, which he and his partner won with a 5-fish total of 24.78 pounds. With 29,000-plus acres of water to choose from, you’ll have no trouble finding a spot of your own to fish.
Lake Erling: Built near the Arkansas-Louisiana border in 1956, Lake Erling is known as a great crappie fishery. Largemouth, catfish, and sunfish also swim in these waters, but most people venture out onto this lake in search of 30-fish limits of 10-inch-plus crappie. A 3-plus-pound crappie was even caught, weighed and released by Jeremy Mattingly earlier this year on Erling.
White Oak Lake: Though Maxine Bryant once held the Arkansas state record for a 22-pound 14-pounce channel catfish she caught from White Oak Lake, the fishery is better known for its largemouth bass fishing than anything. Divided into an upper and a lower section, the lower White Oak Lake has produced multiple fish over 13 pounds and stands tall as one of the best bass fisheries in the state when it comes to the potential of catching a fish of a lifetime.
Lake Monticello: After having been closed for a period of time due to levee work, Lake Monticello is back open for business and the largemouth bass fishing is good. In partnership with Red Hills Fishery in Georgia, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has stocked thousands of special Titan Maxx bass into the lake in recent years in hopes of creating a destination fishery for anglers from throughout the country.
When To Go
Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge: March - May
Millwood Lake: March - May
Erling: March - May
Lake Monticello: March - May
Where to Stay and Eat
Coulter Farmstead: A unique place to stay, the Coulter Farmstead has cabins that date back all the way to the 1840s, with a Greek Revival style main house and a general store, both also dating back to the late 1800s. All these properties have been meticulously renovated and maintained to create a special place to spend the weekend in the Old Washington and Millwood Lake area.
Historic Washington State Park Jail B&B: Also in the Old Washington/Millwood Lake area lies the Historic Washington State Park Jailhouse Bed and Breakfast. While this 1873 jailhouse has been renovated with all the modern amenities, you can still see carvings and etchings from inmates of years gone by on columns that are encased in glass in the guest rooms. A one-of-a-kind experience to say the least.
Millwood Landing Golf & RV Resort: If you’re interested in fishing one of the state's premiere bass fisheries, look no farther than Millwood Lake. And, if you’d like to golf a little too while you’re there, you might as well stay in one of the lakeside cabins at Millwood Landing Golf & RV Resort and do both. There’s no restaurant on site here, but plenty of places to eat nearby.
Yarborough Landing Cabins: For a home away from home feel on Millwood Lake, check out the Yarborough Landing Cabins. These cabins have been renovated and feature most of the comforts of home, including a microwave, refrigerator, coffee station, and full bath.
Fishing Like a Local
Local lure maker Mark Shatley is a big fan of fishing on White Oak Lake, where he primarily employs his own creation “The Truth” to catch giant bass in the spring. “I’ve got a company called Hooked Outdoors and I make a soft plastic jerkbait,” Shatley says. “I fish it Texas-rigged weightless. It’s really like fishing a Fluke or a Senko, but it’s just got a lot more action.”
Shatley likes fishing this way from the pre-spawn through the spawn all the way into the early post spawn, when bass begin to guard fry. He says the bass stay shallow this whole time. In the summer, Shately and the other locals fish brush piles with worms on shaky heads and Texas rigs to catch the bass that have moved offshore.
“There are actually two lakes at White Oak,” Shatley says. “There’s an upper lake and a lower lake. And the lower lake is actually trophy-managed. I run a little three-hour Thursday night jackpot tournament. In that three-hour tournament, you better come to the scales with 20-plus if you want to take a check home. I won the first one last year in the middle of May with 21 pounds, the next week was 26, then it was 25. Then as we start getting over into June I bump it back to three fish, just for fish care.”
Only averaging around 10 boats a tournament, these are phenomenal 5-fish limits of fish. Quick math reveals that the winner each week of those tournaments was catching a fish averaging between 4 and 5 pounds basically every half hour. And that’s in the summertime, when fishing is starting to slow down a bit. It’s the spring though that’s the real prime time on White Oak.
Gearing Up
Sportsman’s One Stop: A great selection of bass fishing gear along with the essentials for crappie, bream and catfish. And, they have live bait.
Country village Sporting Goods: Stocked full of fishing and hunting gear, Country Village Sporting Goods in El Dorado also has boats and RVs in stock.
