Arkansas boasts some of the finest trout streams in the country, drawing anglers with their scenic beauty and abundant fish. As an avid fisherman, I’ve spent countless hours casting lines in these waters, but to create a definitive guide, I knew I needed a broader perspective. I reached out to local anglers, whose deep knowledge of the state’s rivers and creeks added invaluable insights to this article. To ensure we captured the pulse of the fishing community, we also polled our social media followers, asking them to share their favorite spots and experiences.
The result is a carefully curated list of Arkansas’s top trout streams, blending personal expertise with collective wisdom. From the White River’s legendary runs to lesser-known gems, these waterways offer something for every angler—whether you’re chasing trophy browns or simply soaking in the tranquility. This guide celebrates the state’s rich fishing heritage and aims to inspire your next adventure on the water.
20. Big Creek (White River tributary)
Big Creek, a lively tributary of the White River in Arkansas, winds through the Ozark hills with a rhythm all its own. Known for its cool, spring-fed waters, this stream offers prime conditions for trout to thrive. Anglers often find clear runs and shaded pools perfect for casting. The surrounding scenery adds to the charm—peaceful woods, rocky banks, and plenty of wildlife. It’s less crowded than bigger rivers, giving it a quiet, hidden feel. Whether you’re wading in or walking along the shore, Big Creek brings a calm, natural experience that’s great for fishing or just soaking in the outdoors.
19. Warm Fork Spring River
The Warm Fork Spring River, a lively Ozark stream near Thayer, Arkansas, crafts a unique trout fishing haven. Its chilly, clear waters, fed by Mammoth Spring, bubble with stocked rainbow trout and occasional browns. Anglers wander pebbled banks or wade swift riffles, tossing small lures or flies to snag fish darting among rocks. The river’s steady flow, rich with tiny insects, keeps trout frisky. Shaded by dense trees and rolling hills, it offers a quiet retreat. Access near the Arkansas-Missouri line suits all. Rain can shift its currents, so stay alert. This vibrant stream blends the rush of a quick catch with the calm of pristine wilderness.
18. South Fork of the Little Red River
The South Fork of the Little Red River, a serene Ozark gem near Clinton, Arkansas, offers a delightful trout fishing retreat. Its cold, crystal waters, fed by springs, teem with stocked rainbow trout and crafty browns. Anglers tread grassy edges or slip into shallow runs, casting light flies or spinners to hook fish lurking in rocky nooks. The stream’s gentle current, brimming with small critters, keeps trout lively. Encircled by wooded hills and quiet meadows, it’s a peaceful escape. Access near Choctaw is easy for all. Rain may swell its flow, so check conditions. This quaint river pairs the spark of a sudden catch with tranquil, natural beauty.
17. Middle Fork Little Red River
The Middle Fork Little Red River, a tranquil Ozark stream near Clinton, Arkansas, invites trout anglers to its pristine waters. This slender, spring-fed creek sparkles with stocked rainbow trout and sneaky browns. Fishermen roam soft banks or wade gentle riffles, flicking flies or small lures to snag fish hiding in leafy pools. Its cool, steady flow, rich with tiny bugs, keeps trout sprightly. Framed by lush hills and quiet woods, the river feels like a secret haven. Access near Shirley is simple for all. Rain can stir its currents, so stay cautious. This charming stream blends the thrill of a quick bite with the peace of unspoiled wilderness.
16. Kings River
The Kings River, a lively Ozark stream in northwest Arkansas, crafts a delightful trout fishing adventure. Its cool, clear waters near Kingston ripple with stocked rainbow trout and occasional browns. Anglers paddle kayaks or tread gravelly shores, flicking spinners or flies into deep holes where fish nip at insects. Lush hills and shady trees hug the river, creating a peaceful haven. Spots like Trigger Gap offer easy entry for all. The river’s natural flow, fed by springs, shifts with rain, so check conditions. This charming stream blends the excitement of a tugging line with the calm of untouched wilderness, perfect for a refreshing day outdoors.
15. Collins Creek
Collins Creek, a petite Ozark stream near Heber Springs, Arkansas, offers a cozy trout fishing escape. Fed by chilly springs from Greers Ferry Lake, its clear waters nurture stocked rainbow trout and wild browns. Anglers stroll soft banks or wade shallow runs, tossing small flies or lures to snag fish hiding in grassy bends. The creek’s gentle flow, teeming with tiny critters, keeps trout frisky. Encircled by quiet woods, it’s a calm spot for beginners and experts. Easy access near the Greers Ferry Fish Hatchery invites all. Stable water levels ensure steady fishing, blending serene beauty with the spark of a sudden bite.
14. Eleven Point River
The Eleven Point River, a serene Ozark stream straddling Arkansas and Missouri, weaves a tranquil trout fishing haven. Its cold, spring-fed waters near Dalton sparkle with rainbow and brown trout. Anglers drift in canoes or tread mossy banks, casting flies or spinners into shaded pools where fish dart among sunken logs. Rich with bugs, the river keeps trout lively. Towering pines and rocky bluffs frame this remote gem, offering a quiet retreat. Access at spots like Greer’s Ferry Crossing is simple. A natural flow means checking water levels. This scenic river blends the thrill of a quick catch with peaceful, untouched beauty.
13. Lake Greeson (Narrows) Tailwaters
The Lake Greeson Narrows Tailwater, streaming from Narrows Dam on the Little Missouri River, offers a refreshing trout fishing hideaway in southwest Arkansas. This crisp, slender flow, cooled by the lake’s depths, teems with rainbow trout stocked each winter. From November through spring, anglers wander along pebbly shores or wade swift currents, tossing small jigs or live bait to snag eager fish. The river’s lively ripples, fueled by dam releases, nurture a feast of insects, keeping trout plump. Scenic bluffs and quiet woods near Murfreesboro frame the water, creating a serene escape. Access points like the Narrows Dam site make it easy to jump in. Watch for shifting flows to stay safe. This seasonal stream, compact yet spirited, delivers the excitement of a quick bite alongside the calm beauty of Arkansas’s rolling hills, inviting both new anglers and old hands for a memorable day.
12. Lake Catherine Tailwaters
The Lake Catherine Tailwater, flowing from Remmel Dam on the Ouachita River, creates a delightful trout fishing nook near Hot Springs, Arkansas. This slender, cool stream, enriched by Lake Catherine’s releases, sparkles with stocked rainbow trout from late fall to early spring. Anglers line the boulder-strewn banks or step into gentle riffles, casting worms, spoons, or flies to hook spirited fish. The water’s brisk pace, driven by dam spills, keeps trout active and feeds on tiny critters like midges. Scenic trails at Lake Catherine State Park offer easy access and stunning views of wooded slopes. Stay mindful of sudden flow changes for safe wading. With its intimate size and vibrant seasonal fishery, this tailwater blends the joy of quick catches with the calm of a winter’s day, making it a welcoming spot for both curious beginners and seasoned fishers chasing a lively tug.
11. Lake Hamilton Tailwaters
The Lake Hamilton Tailwater, pulsing from Carpenter Dam on the Ouachita River, offers a spirited trout fishing spot in Hot Springs, Arkansas. This compact, chilly stream, fed by Lake Hamilton’s deep waters, hosts rainbow trout stocked each winter by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. From November to April, anglers gather along rocky banks or wade into shallow shoals, flicking PowerBait or small spinners to catch feisty rainbows. The swift, clear current, shaped by dam releases, demands caution but rewards with lively bites. Nearby Lake Catherine State Park adds scenic charm, with pine-covered hills framing the water. Fly fishers often target eddies near the dam for quick strikes. Check water flow schedules for safety. This seasonal fishery, bustling yet cozy, blends the thrill of trout chasing with the quiet beauty of a southern winter stream, perfect for a crisp day’s adventure.
10. Little Missouri River
The Little Missouri River tumbles through Arkansas’s Ouachita Mountains, a spirited stream near Narrows Dam where rainbow trout sparkle in cold pockets. Winding 29 miles, it carves paths around boulders and slips past pine-draped ridges. Smallmouth bass rule the warmer stretches, but trout steal the show in winter, chasing tiny jigs in clear eddies. Gravel bars crunch underfoot, perfect for casting from shore. Ferns and moss cling to damp rocks, and otters sometimes splash nearby, adding a playful vibe. Kayaks bob through mild rapids, letting fishers reach hidden holes. The air smells of earth and cedar, especially after rain when the river wakes up. Lightweight gear works best to tempt cautious fish. In fall, leaves drift like confetti, turning every trip into a postcard. The Little Missouri blends adventure and calm, whispering invitations to anyone with a rod or a paddle.
9. Ouachita River Tailwater
The Ouachita River Tailwater, spilling from Lake Ouachita’s Blakely Mountain Dam, crafts a hidden gem for trout fishing in Arkansas. This short, lively stretch near Hot Springs hums with cool, clear water, ideal for trout. Since the 1950s, stocked rainbows dance in its currents, joined by occasional browns, feeding on tiny shrimp and bugs. Anglers slip into the flow at spots like the dam’s base, casting light lines or small lures to tempt fish hiding in rocky pockets. The river’s gentle bends and shaded banks offer a cozy, intimate vibe, perfect for a quiet day of fishing. Wading is easy, but boats work too for exploring deeper runs. Check dam schedules to avoid sudden rises. Surrounded by piney hills and soft breezes, this lesser-known stream blends calm beauty with the spark of a quick bite, delighting beginners and seasoned fishers alike.
8. Bull Shoals Tailwater
The Bull Shoals Tailwater, carved by the White River below Bull Shoals Dam, delivers a thrilling trout fishing escape in Arkansas. Stretching roughly 100 miles through the Ozark hills, its icy, clear waters nurture a bounty of trout. Since the dam’s completion in 1951, rainbow trout have flourished, with feisty browns and occasional cutthroats adding variety. Anglers can wade gravel bars or float in boats, tossing flies or spinners to hook fish fattened by abundant sculpins and insects. The river’s steady flow, shaped by dam releases, keeps conditions prime for year-round fishing. Hot spots like Cotter’s Big Spring Park offer easy entry for all skill levels. Watch for shifting water levels to stay safe. With misty mornings and stunning mountain views, this stream promises both serenity and the rush of landing a trophy trout in a wild, natural setting.
7. Greers Ferry Tailwater
The Greers Ferry Tailwater, flowing from the Little Red River below Greers Ferry Dam, offers a lively trout fishing adventure in Arkansas. Spanning about 30 miles through scenic Cleburne County, its chilly waters create a perfect home for thriving trout. Since 1966, rainbow trout have splashed here, joined by wild brown trout since 1977, including a legendary 40-pound record-breaker caught in 1992. Anglers wade or drift along mossy banks and gravel shoals, casting for rainbows or chasing trophy browns with streamers. The river’s clear, cold flow, fed by the dam, supports rich aquatic life like crawfish and scuds, fattening the fish. With easy access at spots like JFK Park, it’s a welcoming place for beginners and experts alike. Check dam release schedules for safe wading, and expect a peaceful yet exciting day on this Ozark gem.
6. Beaver Tailwater
Beaver Tailwater hums below Beaver Dam near Eureka Springs, Arkansas, a chilly stretch of the White River famed for plump trout. This five-mile ribbon of water, born from the dam’s icy release, swirls with rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout eager to snap at tiny flies or spinners. Mist rises off the surface at dawn, while herons stalk the shallows. Gravel bars and deep channels shift with the flow, challenging anglers to read the river’s mood. Wading feels like stepping into a crisp morning, boots crunching on smooth stones. Nearby, wooded trails offer spots to rest and watch the current dance. Spring brings caddisflies, sparking feeding frenzies. Catch-and-release keeps the fish thriving, and barbless hooks are a must. Beaver Tailwater buzzes with life, blending peace and excitement for anyone chasing trout or just soaking in the scenery.
5. Dry Run Creek
Dry Run Creek sparkles as a hidden gem near Mountain Home, Arkansas, flowing gently from the Norfork National Fish Hatchery. This lively stream, stretching just three-quarters of a mile, brims with hefty rainbow, brown, cutthroat, and brook trout, making it a paradise for young anglers under 16 and mobility-impaired fishers. Its clear, chilly waters, fed by hatchery outflow, teem with natural snacks like sow bugs and midges, helping trout grow impressively large. Catch-and-release rules keep the creek thriving, with only barbless lures allowed to protect the fish. The shady banks, cooled by a soft breeze, offer a refreshing escape on hot days. Nearby, the hatchery invites visitors to explore and feed trout, adding fun for families. Dry Run’s unique charm lies in its focus on kids, fostering lifelong fishing memories.
4. Spring River
The Spring River carves a lively path through Arkansas’s rugged north, a treasure for trout seekers. Born from Mammoth Spring’s constant 58-degree gush, it stays cool, feeding rainbow and brown trout year-round. Near Hardy, places like Bayou Access hum with splashes as fish chase bait through swift runs or linger in gentle eddies. Dawn paints the water golden, perfect for quiet casts, while midday brings out the river’s shimmer. Wide gravel banks suit new anglers, yet twisty channels near Many Islands test veterans. Locals grin over tales of surprise catches, adding to the stream’s pull. Deer graze along mossy shores, and kingfishers dive for minnows, making every trip a show. Unlike dam-fed rivers, the Spring’s steady flow needs no schedule checks. With a light rod or simple lures, anyone can dive into this vibrant waterway, hooked on its wild, welcoming spirit.
3. Little Red River
The Little Red River winds gently through Arkansas’s green valleys, a haven for trout lovers. Fed by Greers Ferry Dam’s cool depths, it nurtures rainbow, brown, and brook trout in its clear flow. Near Heber Springs, spots like Swinging Bridge buzz with action, where fish dart through riffles or lurk in shadowy holes. Morning fog hugs the water, creating a peaceful scene, while sunny afternoons reveal sparkling currents. Beginners can wade easily at Cow Shoals, but tricky runs near Pangburn call to skilled anglers. Locals swap stories of monster browns, fueling the river’s charm. Wildlife thrives here—herons stalk the edges, and otters play in quiet bends. The Little Red’s mood shifts with dam pulses, so always check release times for safety. Whether tossing flies or bait, this stream offers everyone a shot at adventure in a setting that feels untouched.
2. Norfork River
The Norfork River, a gem in Arkansas’s Ozark hills, captivates anglers with its crisp, cold waters teeming with trout. Stretching just a few miles from Norfork Dam to its meeting with the White River, this short but mighty stream offers a peaceful escape. Its clear flow, fed by deep, chilly reservoir currents, creates a haven for rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout, making every cast a thrill. Shaded by lush trees and framed by gentle bluffs, the river’s banks invite waders and small boats to explore its riffles and pools. Known for producing trophy fish, the Norfork’s intimate size lets beginners and experts alike feel the tug of a big catch. Access points like Quarry Park make it easy to dive in. A quick trip from Mountain Home, this stream promises quiet beauty and heart-pounding bites in equal measure.
1. White River
The White River dances through Arkansas’s Ozark hills, a gem for trout anglers. Born cold below Bull Shoals Dam, its waters stay chilly year-round, perfect for rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. Stretches near Cotter and Flippin brim with fish, from feisty stockers to hefty wild browns that test your skill. Misty mornings cloak the river in calm, while afternoon sun lights up gravel bars and deep pools. Easy-to-reach spots like Rim Shoals welcome beginners, but hidden bends challenge seasoned casters. Local guides share tales of record catches, adding to the river’s pull. Beyond fishing, bald eagles soar overhead, and quiet banks invite picnics. The White’s flow shifts with dam releases, so check schedules to stay safe. With fly rods or simple spinners, anyone can find joy here, chasing trout in a place that feels alive with possibility.
Arkansas Trout Streams Info and FAQ
Arkansas’s trout streams, like the White, Little Red, Norfork, and Spring rivers, are renowned for their cold, clear waters and thriving trout populations, including rainbow, brown, brook, and cutthroat. These tailwaters, created by dams since the 1940s, support over 1.5 million stocked trout annually, with brown trout reproducing naturally in some areas. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) provides maps and regulations at www.agfc.com to guide anglers on access points and rules.
FAQ
What gear works best? A 4- or 5-weight fly rod or light spinning rod is ideal. Use nymphs, streamers, or baits like worms for trout.
Do I need a license? Yes, an Arkansas fishing license and trout permit are required for most waters.
When’s the best time to fish? Spring and fall offer prime conditions, but year-round fishing is possible.
Are there safety concerns? Watch for sudden water rises in tailwaters due to dam releases—check generation schedules.
Can beginners fish here? Absolutely! Many streams have easy access and guide services for all skill levels.
For more, visit AGFC’s website or local fly shops. Tight lines!
Add comment