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Year-Round Opportunities

Many lakes, rivers, and reservoirs in Arkansas offer year-round fishing, especially for: Catfish Bass Trout (in stocked and regulated areas)

Licensing & Regulations

Ensure you have the appropriate fishing license. Check AGFC’s website for specific regulations on size, bag limits, and special fishing areas.

Image of a Trout jumping out of water.

Another trout image

A third trout image

Spring (March-May)

Bass (Largemouth, Smallmouth, Spotted):
Prime time for bass fishing, as fish become more active during pre-spawn and spawning. Lakes like Lake Ouachita and Bull Shoals are popular.

Crappie:
Peak fishing as crappies spawn in shallow waters. Target areas with submerged brush or vegetation.

Trout:
Excellent time for trout fishing in cold-water streams like the Little Red River and White River.

Catfish:
Begin to bite actively as water temperatures rise.

Summer (June-August)

Bass (Largemouth, Smallmouth, Spotted):
Summer is a great time for bass fishing, with fish moving into deeper, cooler waters to escape the heat. Early morning and late evening are the most productive times. Focus on structure like underwater ledges, submerged trees, and drop-offs.

Crappie:
Fishing may slow down in the heat, but deeper areas with submerged structures may still yield good catches. Night fishing can be particularly effective for crappie during the hot summer months.

Trout:
Trout are still active in cooler, shaded streams. Look for areas with moving water and deeper pools where trout can find relief from the summer heat.

Catfish:
Summer is prime time for catfish, especially at night when they are more active. Nighttime fishing in rivers and lakes can be extremely productive. Focus on deep holes and areas with slow-moving water.

Fall (September-November)

Bass (Largemouth, Smallmouth, Spotted):
Great time for bass fishing as they feed heavily before winter. Fish become more aggressive and move into shallower waters to feed. The cooling temperatures trigger increased feeding activity, making this an ideal season for bass anglers.

Crappie:
Crappie fishing picks up as they school and become more active. As water temperatures cool, crappies move into more predictable patterns, often gathering around structures like brush piles and submerged timber.

Trout:
Fishing remains excellent as the weather cools. Trout become more active and start to feed more aggressively in preparation for the winter months. Rivers and streams offer prime fishing opportunities.

Catfish:
Fall is a productive time for catfish as they feed heavily to prepare for winter. They become more active in rivers and lakes, providing excellent fishing opportunities. Look for areas with changing water temperatures and abundant baitfish.

Winter (December-February)

Bass (Largemouth, Smallmouth, Spotted):
Winter fishing is slower, but bass can still be caught in deeper, warmer waters. Slow down your presentation and focus on areas with minimal current. Use lures that move slowly and mimic cold-water prey.

Crappie:
Crappie fishing is best in deeper waters. Look for schools of crappie near underwater structures like sunken trees, rock piles, and deep creek channels. Vertical jigging can be very effective during winter.

Trout:
Winter is a good time for trout in cold-water streams. Trout tend to congregate in deeper pools where the water is more stable. Smaller, more subtle presentations work best during this season.

Catfish:
Catfish can still be found in slow-moving rivers or deep lakes. They become less active but will still feed. Focus on deep holes and use baits that move slowly and stay in place longer.

Weekly Weather Forecast for Arkansas

GEAR

Possible gear you might need before your trip

Complete Gear Combo

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Complete Gear Combo

$299.99

Fishing Gear

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Fishing Gear

$21.99

Fly Fishing Flies Kit

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Fly Fishing Flies Kit

$19.98

Strap Fishing Vest

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Strap Fishing Vest

$38.98