Brown Trout Fishing in Arkansas
Check regulations
Check regulations
Year-round
Overview
The White River system produces truly trophy brown trout thanks to cold tailwater temperatures.
The Little Red River held the world-record brown trout (40 lbs 4 oz) until 1992.
Sculpin-pattern streamers and large sowbug nymphs are the keys to big Arkansas browns.
Generation schedules dramatically affect fishing—plan around low-water windows.
Best Waters in Arkansas
- White River (below Bull Shoals) — World-class tailwater producing trophy brown trout alongside rainbow trout year-round.
- Little Red River — Former world-record brown trout water with excellent year-round fishing below Greers Ferry Dam.
- Norfork River — Short tailwater with incredible trout density including quality browns.
- Crooked Creek — Spring-fed Ozark stream with wild brown trout and wade fishing opportunities.
Local Techniques & Baits
Techniques
- Streamer fishing
- Nymphing (sowbugs and scuds)
- Drift boat fishing
- Bait fishing
- Indicator nymphing
Baits & Lures
- Sculpin streamer
- Pink and gray sowbug
- Y2K scud
- Woolly Bugger
- Berkley PowerBait
Seasonal Guide for Arkansas
SpringSpring Fishing
Excellent fishing with sowbugs and midges during low-water generation windows.
SummerSummer Fishing
Cold tailwater stays fishable. Fish early morning generation windows for wade access.
FallFall Fishing
Spawning season brings big browns into shallows. Streamers and large nymphs produce trophies.
WinterWinter Fishing
Outstanding fishing. Low water levels allow wading. Sowbugs, scuds, and midges are the top flies.
Regulations
Regulations change frequently. Always verify current regulations with Arkansas Fish & Wildlife. Information shown was last updated 2025-01-01.
Specific regulations for brown trout in Arkansas are not listed in our database. Please check the official Arkansas regulations for current rules.