Top Arkansas Fishing Trips

Can-U-Canoe offers a quintessential Arkansas Ozarks fishing experience just outside of the beautiful and historic city of Eureka Springs.

Surround yourself with Ozarks beauty only minutes away from Eureka Springs, Arkansas! If you’re hoping to target trout and bass and everything in between, Can-U-Canoe is within ideal proximity to both the White River and Beaver Lake—both of which are considered some of Arkansas’ best fishing destinations. And with such an eclectic assortment of suites, cabins, and vacation homes, it’s no surprise that so many anglers choose Can-U-Canoe as their ultimate basecamp for fishing in the state.

Address

161 County Road 210 Eureka Springs, AR 72632

Highlights

After minimal research, it doesn't take long to realize that water is integral in making Can-U-Canoe an excellent destination for an unforgettable Ozarks fishing retreat.

Related activities

When you're not out fishing on the White River or Beaver Lake, you can find many other outdoor activities such as canoeing, hiking, mountain biking, and even scuba diving!

There are times when a fishing resort becomes much, much more than a fishing resort. This would be one of those times. Buffalo Outdoor Center rests on the Buffalo River - which means, with the surrounding Ozark Mountains, it’s one of the most scenic Arkansas fishing vacations you’ll ever take.

The cabins here are plentiful, in a variety of sizes and levels of luxury. The five Classic cabins provide all the basics - and more - for an Ozarks fishing getaway, complete with stone fireplaces. The Valley Luxury cabins are great for romance, from the intimate Valley Mist with a Jacuzzi tub to the Mills Cabin with an outdoor hot tub and space for eight. And the Mountain Top Luxury Cabins - well, we’ll let you see for yourself. Did we mention fishing? The Buffalo River is much sought-after for anglers is search of smallmouth bass. Yet you’re also likely to run across leopard gar, goggle eye, catfish and more - if you can take your eyes off of the surrounding natural beauty.

Related activities

The Buffalo National River is also a tremendous choice for scenic canoeing and spotting elk and a great variety of other mountain and wilderness wildlife.

Fun facts

Buffalo Outdoor Center also has its own wind generator - the first in Arkansas to co-generate.

Related Onsite Offerings

The Riverwind Lodge, with its stunning wilderness views, vaulted ceilings, great room and sleeping accommodations for up to 24, is ideal for business getaways, group events and weddings.

Discover fishing in the Ozarks with Cedar Springs Country Inn.

Surrounded by great fishing waters, Cedar Springs Country Inn is your destination for excellent fishing. The nearby White River has long been noted as a first-class float stream among anglers. Rainbow, German brown, cutthroat and brook trout are waiting in its waters. Or, if you'd prefer lake fishing, Bull Shoals Lake offers even more fishing opportunities. After a day of fishing excitement, retire to your room for comfortable and rustic charm. Lounge on your cedar construction bed, curl up in front of the fireplace, or enjoy the modern convenience of wireless internet. All this and more awaits you at Cedar Springs Country Inn.

Address

590 Rivercliff Drive Bull Shoals, Arkansas

Population

2,000

Related activities

Need a break from fishing? Why not hit the green with one of the golf packages from Cedar Springs Country Inn.

Nestled in the Scenic Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas, Panther Valley Ranch is an authentic 100-year-old Western horse ranch offering scenic lodging described as rustic elegance.

Enjoy mountains, creeks, and woods that surround Panther Valley Ranch’s relaxing scenic lodging. Being surrounded in natural beauty does not mean you’ll be roughing it, their suites come with wireless internet, Jacuzzi's, air conditioning, and more. With four lakes in the area, Hot Springs is a great place to fish. DeGray Lake is best known for hybrid striped bass but is also popular for walleye, bream, crappie, and catfish. Rainbow trout, catfish, crappie, bass, and walleye can be found on Lake Ouachita. The ranch is only five miles from downtown Hot Springs National Park but it is still far removed enough that you feel you have left the world behind. Bask in the views on a hiking trip through the park or head to the nearby shooting range and line up your sights with a round of clay shooting. Come to Panther Valley Ranch and let your stress melt away.

Address

1942 Millcreek Rd., Hot Springs, AR 71901

Related activities

Relax at one of the day spas in the area, take the kids to the Magic Springs Amusement Park, or do some trail riding in the Off Road Vehicle Park.

Fun facts

The Hot Springs National Park calls itself the “oldest area in the national park system” because in 1832, 40 years before Yellowstone became the first national park, President Andrew Jackson set aside the hot springs as a special reservation. The federal land became a national park in 1921.

One thing we’ve noticed about fishing: it’s not really a noisy sport. Which is what gives Lake Shore Cabins on Beaver Lake an added bonus for your Ozarks fishing getaway: the main highlight here, besides the pure luxury of the Arkansas cabin accommodations, is the peace and quiet.

It doesn’t hurt that these eight spacious log cabins rest on the serene Beaver Lake. From above, the lake features breathtaking limestone bluffs on a total of 487 miles of shoreline. Below, it teems with fish - bream, white bass, catfish and smallmouth bass to name a few. People have been known to haul in 40-pound stripers from the 28,000-acre Beaver Lake, which might explain the abundance of marinas and outfitters here. But back to the peace and quiet: you’ll enjoy all of this from a luxury log cabin, either one or two stories, with showers, comfortable sleeper beds, decks, TVs and simply gorgeous rustic construction. And you’ll never believe the view from your deck. It showcases northwest Arkansas, high in the Ozark Mountains - a complete fishing vacation.

Highlights

Beaver Lake itself provides plenty of chances to catch the big one, but the creek mouths around it are just as plentiful. They include Ford’s Creek, Cedar Creek, War Eagle Creek and of course the incomparable White River.

Getting there

From Eureka Springs, take Hwy 62 west to 187 South. Turn left. Travel four miles and take the left fork in the road onto Mundell Road. Go two miles. Lake Shore Cabins on Beaver Lake is on the right.

Fun facts

Beaver Lake is the first of the manmade lakes created along the legendary White River in Arkansas and Missouri.

Located on the United States' first national river, Buffalo River Outfitters has been offering fantastic fishing trips for years and years. With multiple species of fish and breathtaking Ozarks scenery, this angling oasis is an Arkansas adventure to remember!

Set off on this stunning river and reel in a wide variety of fish. This crystal-clear waterway is the perfect fishing hole for bass, perch, and catfish. The most popular method of fishing is on a canoe and this outfitter provides plenty of them. Enjoy a relaxing trip surrounding by stunning scenery before you cast your line and hook a boatload of fish. This fishing fantasy is the crowning achievement of the Ozarks! After recreation on the river, enjoy relaxation in your cabin. These spacious cabins exude rustic charm and feature welcoming amenities. Curl up beside the stone fireplace, soak in the scenery from the porch, or fry up the catch of the day on the barbecue grill. Choose a luxury cabin and rejuvenate in the soothing Jacuzzi tub. And, the entire family can fit in these cabins, which can accommodate up to 10 guests!

Address

9664 US-65, St. Joe, Arkansas 72675

Highlights

The cabin is perched atop Silver Hill, overlooking the Tyler Bend area of the river, offering a cool vantage point during those hot summer days.

Related activities

When you're not fishing, try kayaking, tubing, or rafting. Stay dry and hike the scenic Ozarks or traverse the terrain on horseback. Adventure is always in season!

Every lure is lucky at the Lobo Landing Resort! Claim that perfect river spot for your own when you take the Little Red River road to the Lobo Landing.

The silence is only broken by the calming current of the Little Red River and the wistful whistle of your line, lifting like a kite before falling like a star into the best fly fishing spot in Arkansas. Slip into bliss and into your waders to wander the lucky waters alive with the silver-dollar scales of slippery, shining trout. This isn’t just luck. It’s the Lobo Landing Resort. Lobo Landing Resort is the avid angler’s answer to Arkansas fly fishing. Peek into a simpler past at the riverside log cabins designed with a Montana fishing lodge in mind, but with all the modern comforts of a current Bassmaster. A boat dock, covered walkways, and a fishing deck complete the picture of your next fly fishing adventure in the outback of Arkansas.

Highlights

Lobo Landing Resort has partnered with Arkansas’ only Orvis-endorsed guide service, Jamie Rouse Fly Fishing Adventures, to get you your next trophy trout!

Related activities

Seclusion and solitude are the freeing friends of a fly fisherman. Soak in the silence, the peace and quiet, and feel your stresses melt away at the popular but private Lobo Landing Resort. Riverside cabins and your own trophy trout will have you thinking you’re the river king!

Fun facts

“Rip" Collins proved that the Little Red River is a premier trout stream in 1992, when he reeled in a world-record 40-pound, four-ounce brown trout on the Little Red River.

Fishing has always been kind of a community activity. Give an angler a boat and a good trout river, and he’s happy; put a buddy next to him and he’s delirious. Here’s a wonderful lodge that illustrates this point - for groups up to 100. The more the better!

The whole idea of Fisherman’s Lodge is still what keeps it vital today: it was a place for people to stay so they could fish for longer than one day on the fantastic White River. That was 25 years ago. Now, the lodge serves fabulous meals morning and evening on entertainment decks and in the grand dining room; an equally delicious lunch is served out on the shores. That’s not to mention the Great Room, the onsite conference room or the six beautiful guest rooms. It’s also not to mention the fishing. The lodge employs expert guides who conduct four types of fishing trips, including family, trophy trout, group and fast-action fishing, where you’re likely to catch up to 12 fish per hour!

Highlights

The covered deck at the Fisherman's Lodge provides spectacular views of the Ozark Uplands, the White River and the Ozark Plateau.

Related activities

You can also blend a little golf into your Arkansas White River fishing trip with the Fisherman’s Lodge packages to the Big Creek Country Club, just 15 minutes away.

Related Onsite Offerings

The Fisherman’s Lodge also offers a two-day fly fishing school courtesy of Jim Traylor, professional fly fishing guide.

Plan the ultimate fishing experience at the magnificent White River Inn. Located right beside the famed White River itself, the White River Inn offers everything you need for an exceptional 5-star fishing experience. Their all-inclusive packages provide luxury accommodations, delicious meals throughout your stay, and incredible fishing adventures. Their Orvis-endorsed fishing guides will happily show you the ropes around the river, which is considered to be the "best trophy brown trout fishery in the world!" The river is also teeming with all four species of trout so you have plenty of opportunities to reel in a great catch. Whether you're a fan of fly-fishing or spin-fishing, you can enjoy it here as well. There's no doubt about it; The White River Inn offers the best trout fishing in the lower 48!

Address

924 County Road 174 Cotter, AR 72626

Highlights

Enjoy 100 miles of fishing on your stay at The White River Inn! Their fishery starts below the Bull Shoals Dam and continues for 100 miles or so downstream!

Related Onsite Offerings

The back deck at the lodge offers unbeatable views of the river as well as a place to unwind, bird-watch, and bask in the stunning sunsets and sunrises everyday.

Planning the ultimate fishing trip has many options to consider such as location, transportation, guides, equipment and lodging. Take the worry out of planning your next fishing excursion by staying at Norfork Resort & Trout Dock.

The goal of the resort is to help you have the best fishing trip you can imagine. Your dream fishing adventure begins with their high quality accommodations and service. The cabins each have a unique layout and can comfortably house groups of almost any size. Each cabin has a different perspective and location so you can enjoy different aspects of the surrounding landscape. The amenities differ from cabin to cabin but include a/c units, porches, full kitchen, full bath, washer/dryer and much more. On site the resort has a swimming pool for guests to use as well as a conference room that can hold up to 75. Fishing is the specialty of Norfork Resort & Trout Dock and it shows in their service and knowledge of the area. They offer a range of fishing trips that have something for any angler. You can go on a fully outfitted trip with a guide and you will always be on the best hot spots. There is also the option to go on overnight camping expeditions where your group and guide stay out under the stars for a memorable experience. You can rent boats and all the equipment you need for your journey right at the resort. Don't miss out on the 100 plus year old tradition of shore lunches. A cook will prepare your catch as well as side dishes and drinks riverside. Let the rustic charm and beautiful surroundings be the backdrop for your ultimate fishing adventure at Norfolk Resort and Trout Dock.

Address

Norfork Resort & Trout Dock 297 Fisherman St. Norfork, AR 72658

Fun facts

The Buffalo River was Americas first river to be named a National River.

Related Onsite Offerings

If your in need of a boat don't worry the resort features boat rentals. Rentals come with life preservers, paddles, net and anchor. There is a max of four people per boat so plan accordingly.

Lake Forest Luxury Log Cabins, located in Eureka Springs, abounds with opportunities for recreation and relaxation.

Onsite, you’ll find an outdoor swimming pool to go along with your deluxe cabins. These well-appointed cabins sit between Beaver Lake and the Ozark Mountains. Inside, you’ll find such amenities like fully-equipped kitchens, satellite television, vaulted ceilings, and a BBQ grill fit to make delicious meals. The real highlight will be your access to Beaver Lake where you can fish from sunrise to sunset. Under the surface lurk striped bass, smallmouth and largemouth bass, as well as bream, crappie, and catfish. Around the area, you’ll find no shortage of fishing guides who will take you to the hot spots. Take advantage of all the fishing opportunities you’ll have among the Arkansas Ozarks at Lake Forest!

Address

351 Lake Forest Drive Eureka Springs, AR 72631

Extra Stops

Aside from fishing guides, Eureka Springs also has a handful of day spas, restaurants, and arts and entertainment to keep you busy.

Related Onsite Offerings

Lake Forest Luxury Cabins has two pet-friendly cabins onsite, so feel free to bring Fido!

If you are looking for the only premier fly fishing destination on the North Fork of the White River, look no further than the River Ridge Inn!

Accomplish the goal of every Arkansas fly fishing enthusiast as you try to catch the always elusive "Grand Slam". Catch these four different species of trout (brown, cutthroat, rainbow and brook), and you will become a legend in the Heart of the Ozarks! Onsite fishing guides and instructors will make this a successful fishing group for your entire group, helping you find the perfect spot to land your next trophy fish. One particular stretch of the White River, Dry Run Creek, has been called "the best quarter mile of trout fishing in the world". Why pass up an opportunity to catch your limit in these abundant waters? Arrange your next Arkansas fishing getaway now!

Address

57 River Ridge Road Norfork, AR, 72658

Population

Norfork - 511

Mountain range

The Ozark Mountains

Fun facts

-The Main Lodge at River Ridge Inn provides a six bedrooms and bathrooms, making it the perfect place for groups of up to 20 to stay for a long weekend of family reunion. Or, the lodge rooms can be rented out individually. -For those learning to fly fish for the first time, River Ridge Inn provides a Fly Fishing Academy.

Nestled among a tranquil wooded area overlooking Bull Shoals Lake, Driftwood Resort is the ideal spot for a relaxing getaway where there is no such thing as too much fishing.

You’ll have a hard time choosing where to drop your line in. Nearby Bull Shoals Lake spans approximately 45,000 acres and has largemouth and smallmouth bass, white and striped bass, walleye, and catfish. Also close by is the famed White River where you’ll take in breathtaking views of the Ozark mountains. In the river, you’ll catch some of the best rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout in the United States. Whether you go fly-fishing, on a guided trip, or bank fishing, the experience will always be unique and productive.

Address

205 Pinehurst Point, Bull Shoals, Arkansas, 72619

Related activities

There are plenty of other water activities to participate in besides fishing including boating, jet skiing, and swimming.

Getting there

From Branson: Take US 65 S (Entering Arkansas) approx 30 miles turning left onto US65/US62/US412/AR43. Continue to follow approx 7.2 miles and turn left onto US 65/US 62/US 412. Go approx 21 miles, turn left on AR 202. Go 7.4 miles and turn left on AR 178. Go 7.5 miles and turn left on Shorecrest Dr. Take the third left onto Pinehurst Point and go approximately 1 block. Look for Driftwood Resort on left.

There is no better place to plan your next fishing trip than Beaver Lakefront Cabins in Eureka Springs, Arkansas.

Beaver Lakefront Cabins are located on the shores of Beaver Lake and within driving distance of Eureka Springs. Fishing enthusiasts will be impressed by their indoor heated fishing room, the only one on the lake. Beaver Lakefront Cabins also has a boat dock and luxury pontoon rentals if you want to fish out on the lake in the warmer months. They offer free kayak, canoe, and pedal boat rentals for those who want to explore the nearby coves. Beaver Lake is famous for its fishing, so grab their local fishing guide and catch some of their incredible striper basses. You can also catch some white bass and trout on White River, which is only a few minutes away. Book your cabin now and experience an unforgettable Arkansas vacation!

Address

1234 County Road 120, Eureka Springs, AR 72631

Related activities

Consider a visit to the National Historic Register's Blue Spring Heritage Center with its inviting gardens and prolific spring or to the nearly 500 acres Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge housing over 100 rescued big cats. The area also offers a variety of outdoor adventures including zip lining, horseback riding, scuba diving near the Beaver Dam, and hiking at Lake Leatherwood.

Related Onsite Offerings

Every cabin and suite has a front glass wall and a large, two-person Jacuzzi facing the lake. In addition, they provide native stone gas fireplaces, exceptionally comfortable custom beds with luxurious linens, fully equipped kitchens, and modern bathrooms. For your indoor entertainment, they offer complimentary wireless internet, large flat-screen HDTVs with HD satellite, and an up-to-date 750 plus DVD/Blu-ray library.

Gatson’s White River Resort in Lakeview, Arkansas is the ideal place to have an unforgettable fishing trip with the whole family.

Gaston's White River Resort began 59 years ago with only six cottages and six boats, now Gaston’s has 79 cottages and over 70 boats. The years have also brought an award-winning restaurant, a private club, a conference lodge, and much more. Gaston’s is perfect for any size family or get-together, with cottages ranging from two double beds to ten private rooms. At Gaston’s, it is all about fishing. Visitors can choose to purchase a guided fishing trip or rent a boat and get out on the water on their own. Visitors who have their own boats can also rent fishing equipment if needed. For guests’ convenience, they can purchase a full or half day guided fishing trip, as well as rent the boats and fishing equipment for a full or half day, depending on their needs.

Address

1777 River Rd, Lakeview, AR 72642

Highlights

Gaston's White River Resort may offer premiere fishing, but it also features a gift shop, a tennis court, a playground, a game room, a duck pond, three nature trails, a swimming pool, and a fly fishing school. You won't ever run out of activities to do at Gaston's.

Fun facts

Gatson's offers their very own Bermuda grass airstrip. It is open to everyone, not just resort guests. Known as the best fly in destination in that part of the country, Gaston's has people fly in from all over the country to enjoy their resort or even just breakfast, lunch, or dinner at their first-class restaurant.

In the heart of beautiful Hot Springs Village is an unforgettable vacation experience that's perfect for families, friends, and couples alike. Stay with Village Villas Vacation Rentals and discover the comfort and adventure of this extraordinary destination.

Fishing enthusiasts are in for an exceptional experience when staying at Village Villas Vacation Rentals. Their premier location puts you close to Hot Spring Village's eleven beautiful lakes. Every lake offers a relaxing fishing adventure for both the expert and beginner angler. Three local marinas provide rentals as well! No matter where you choose to cast your line, you're guaranteed to reel in a variety of fish including crappie, bass, catfish, and more!

Address

4136 Highway 7 North, Hot Springs Village, Arkansas 71909

Highlights

Village Villas Vacation Rentals makes it easy to enjoy a relaxing lake vacation on your Arkansas getaway! Their premier location in the heart of Hot Springs Village means you're minutes away from 11 beautiful local lakes. Soft sand beaches let you unwind under the sun while two area marinas provide rentals and easy access for outdoor adventures.

Related activities

With eight championship golf courses just minutes away, there's no place better than Village Villas Vacation Rentals to plan your next golf vacation!

Nestled on the lush banks of the world famous White River, Copper John’s Resort provides the ideal accommodations and surroundings for the ultimate fishing adventure.

Being located in the expanse of dense forests in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, Copper John’s Resort offers seclusion in addition to some of the best fishing in Arkansas. For almost a decade the resort has been welcoming fisherman and those looking for a hidden vacation retreat. Upon first arriving at the resort the surrounding terrain, vegetation and wildlife set a peaceful and relaxing tone for the resort. The log cabin construction gives the resort a warm cabin feel while having many amenities to enhance comfort. They offer 10 different cabins that can accommodate from one to eight people respectively. Each of the cabins is rustically furnished and decorated, giving you the feeling of being at an authentic mountain retreat. Between cabins the amenities differ but you’ll find amenities like comfortable beds, full kitchens, quality furniture, fireplaces and a full bathroom. The biggest attraction to the resort is fishing on the White River. No matter your skill level, they have classes and guides to help you maximize your experience. They even have a fully outfitted fishing shop that has all the equipment you’ll need as well as mementos to remember your trip. Copper John’s Resort is ready to help you realize that dream fishing trip you’ve always wanted, contact them today to see how you can make it a reality.

Address

Copper John’s Resort 469 River Road Lakeview Arkansas 72642

Related activities

Fishing is not the only thing to enjoy during your trip to the heart of the Ozark Mountains. From nature viewing to golf, there is a little something for everyone here.

Fun facts

Lakeview has a population of roughly 800 people and the primary source of the local economy is the tourism industry.