The White
River is the place to fish for German brown, rainbow, cutthroat
and brook trout in the Ozark Mountains
Although
the White River originates in northwest Arkansas, it is noted
for its fantastic trout fishing just below
Bull Shoals Dam. The White River has long been noted as a first-class
float stream among anglers. Even before the completion of the
dam in the 1950's it was a popular smallmouth bass stream. After
the dam was completed, the water in the river below had an average
temperature in the low 50's. With the cold water and the massive
food base combined, the river creates an exceptional environment
for most species of trout. Rainbow, German brown, cutthroat and
brook trout all flourish in the river. The river is home to many
line class world records. Not only do "lunker trout" deserve
bragging rights in the White River, the sheer numbers of trout
are mind-boggling. It is not uncommon to fish with a guide on
the White River and catch a daily limit or catch-and-release
20-30 fish a day. At any moment you could hook in to the next
world record. There are many public accesses up and down the
river where you may launch a boat, wade fish or fish from the
bank. When visiting the area, please visit the river
for yourself. The river offers other opportunities besides the
fantastic trout fishing. Further downstream, where the water
begins to warm, you will find other species of fish such as smallmouth
bass and catfish. If you do choose to bring your own boat, canoe
or raft, you can spend a leisurely day floating the river and
relaxing. While on the river, you may see many different species
of wildlife such as mink, beaver, deer and turkey. The river
offers some great bird watching such as great blue heron and
osprey. The winter months provide some excellent opportunities
for eagle watching. Several of our guides and outfitters in the
area offer guided sightseeing and photo tours of the White River
year around.
There are several resorts, marinas and docks
up and down the river offering guides, lodging, tackle, bait
and boat rentals to help ensure that you have a perfect day on
the White River. Check with any of our members for services on
the White River.
There
are many on-going projects on the river to ensure its beauty
and productivity for many generations to come including
trophy catch-and-release areas, minimum flow and bank restoration
projects. You may read and hear of many trout streams that claim
to be number one or the best. You owe it to yourself to spend
some time on the White River and then decide for yourself. It
is not just a world-class trout stream,
it is a river for us all to enjoy!
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