Arkansas is a fantastic state for fly fishing enthusiasts. With a variety of waters and fish species to choose from, there is no shortage of opportunities to experience the thrill of the catch. In this post, we will explore 8 of the best places to fly fish in Arkansas, along with the species of fish to catch, the name of the waters being fished, the nearest town to stay in for each place, the closest airport to those locations, and the travel time by car to those locations from the airport.
- Little Red River – This river is known for its brown trout and rainbow trout. The best places to fish are below the Greers Ferry Dam and around Cow Shoals. The nearest town to stay in is Heber Springs, and the closest airport is Little Rock National Airport (LIT), which is about a 1 hour 30 minute drive away.
- White River – The White River is famous for its large brown and rainbow trout. The best places to fish are in the tailwaters below the Bull Shoals Dam and the Norfork Dam. The nearest town to stay in is Mountain Home, and the closest airport is the Ozark Regional Airport (WMH), which is about a 20-minute drive away.
- Buffalo National River – The Buffalo River (pictured above) is home to smallmouth bass, Ozark bass, and green sunfish. The best places to fish are the lower sections of the river, particularly around the confluence of the Buffalo River and Crooked Creek. The nearest town to stay in is Harrison, and the closest airport is Boone County Airport (HRO), which is about a 45-minute drive away.
- Little Missouri River – The Little Missouri River is known for its rainbow and brown trout. The best places to fish are around the Albert Pike Recreation Area and the Little Missouri Falls. The nearest town to stay in is Mena, and the closest airport is Mena Intermountain Municipal Airport (MEZ), which is about a 1 hour 20 minute drive away.
- Ouachita River – This river is home to largemouth and smallmouth bass, spotted bass, and various species of sunfish. The best places to fish are around the lower section of the river, particularly near Hot Springs. The nearest town to stay in is Hot Springs, and the closest airport is Hot Springs Memorial Field Airport (HOT), which is about a 15-minute drive away.
- Lake Ouachita – This lake is home to largemouth and smallmouth bass, striped bass, and various species of sunfish. The best places to fish are around the coves and islands of the lake. The nearest town to stay in is Hot Springs, and the closest airport is Hot Springs Memorial Field Airport (HOT), which is about a 30-minute drive away.
- Crooked Creek – This creek is home to smallmouth bass, Ozark bass, and various species of sunfish. The best places to fish are around the town of Yellville. The nearest town to stay in is Yellville, and the closest airport is Boone County Airport (HRO), which is about a 1 hour 15 minute drive away.
- Spring River – This river is home to rainbow trout, brown trout, and smallmouth bass. The best places to fish are below the dam at Mammoth Spring and around the town of Hardy. The nearest town to stay in is Hardy, and the closest airport is Jonesboro Municipal Airport (JBR), which is about a 1 hour 30 minute drive away.
Arkansas is a beautiful state with plenty of fly fishing opportunities for all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, these 8 locations offer something for everyone. It’s important to note that fishing regulations and licenses vary by location, so be sure to check the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission website for up-to-date information before you hit the water.
When planning your fly fishing trip to Arkansas, it’s important to consider transportation logistics. The nearest airport and travel time by car to each location are listed above to help you plan your trip. Additionally, it’s a good idea to research lodging options in the nearest town to each location to ensure a comfortable stay during your trip.
In addition to these 8 locations, Arkansas offers many other great fly fishing opportunities. Whether you’re targeting trout, bass, or other species, Arkansas is a fly fishing destination you won’t want to miss. So grab your rod, pack your bags, and head to the Natural State for a fly fishing adventure you won’t forget.
If you enjoyed this post, then check out this one with more fly fishing places in the USA.