Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

White River - near Norfork - Arkansas

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges All Day 18-24 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
February Midges, Black Caddis All Day 16-22 Elk Hair Caddis, Zebra Midge
March Midges, Black Caddis All Day 16-20 Elk Hair Caddis, Zebra Midge
April Mayflies, Caddis All Day 14-20 Wooly Bugger, Hare’s Ear
May Sulfurs, Caddis Evening 14-18 Wooly Bugger, Parachute Sulfur
June Sulfurs, Brown Drake Evening 12-16 Wooly Bugger, Parachute Adams
July Terrestrials All Day 12-18 Ant Patterns, Hopper Patterns
August Terrestrials All Day 12-18 Ant Patterns, Hopper Patterns
September Terrestrials, Blue Winged Olive All Day 16-22 Ant Patterns, Parachute Adams
October Blue Winged Olive All Day 18-24 Parachute Adams, Zebra Midge
November Blue Winged Olive All Day 18-24 Parachute Adams, Zebra Midge
December Blue Winged Olive All Day 20-24 Parachute Adams, Zebra Midge

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The White River, near Norfork, is a paradise for fly fishing enthusiasts. It has several hotspots teeming with a variety of fish species.
  • White Hole: This popular spot is easily accessible and usually crowded, yet it boasts large numbers of rainbow and brown trout.
  • Wildcat Shoals: Found near the town of Cotter, Wildcat Shoals is renowned for its great hatches – making it a prime spot for dry fly fishing.
  • Rim Shoals: A little further downstream, Rim Shoals provides excellent wade fishing opportunities in low water conditions.
  • Bull Shoals Tailwater: Just below Bull Shoals Dam, this area is famous for trophy-sized trout, particularly browns.
All these spots offer excellent fly fishing conditions. Find your corner, cast your line and enjoy a productive day of fishing.

Best Access Points

White River is a prime location for fly fishing near Norfork. Numerous access points offer unique fishing experiences:

  • Rim Shoals: Known for its world-class trout, this area is easily accessible and offers guided trips.
  • Newlands: Located between Cotter and Gassville, this spot is perfect for walk-and-wade fishing.
  • Bull Shoals Lake: Access from Bull Shoals dam is renowned for trophy brown trout territory.
  • Wildcat Shoals: Close to bridge, this area attracts abundant feeding fish.

Also, DON’T MISS:

  1. Gaston’s Visitor Center: Here, you can hire guides who know the local waters and provide equipment, too.
  2. White Hole Access: It offers 24-hour fishing experience with various camping facilities.

Local Fish

  • Trout: Norfork is famous for trout fishing as the cool waters of the North Fork River are a perfect habitat for these fish.
  • Brown Trout: Brown trout are abundant on the White River near Norfork and are often targeted by fly fishers.
  • Rainbow Trout: Rainbow trout are another popular species targeted by fly fishers in this region.
  • Cutthroat Trout: Though not as common as the other trout species, Cutthroat can still be found in the White River.
  • Bass: A variety of Bass species, such as White and Largemouth, are also found in the White River near Norfork.
  • Bluegill: Fly fishers also target Bluegills, which are known for putting up a good fight for their size.
  • Crappie: Crappie fish are another favorite target of fly fishers in the White River near Norfork.
  • Walleye: Walleye is a less common species in the region but are still targeted by some fly fishers for their size and the quality of their meat.

About The River

The White River is a spectacular natural wonder situated near Norfork, with a robust history that adds charm to its breathtaking allure. The river, stretching across 720 miles, begins its journey in the verdant mountains of Arkansas, spiraling its way into Missouri, before finally looping back into the northeast corner of Arkansas. Originally, American Indians used this river for transportation and sustenance, with its waterways brimming with an incredible variety of fish. Later, Euro-American settlers discovered its charm and transformed the area with trading posts and steamboat commerce. With humanity learning to respect the harmonious balance of nature, part of the White River was transformed into the Buffalo National River in 1972. Today, it’s a veritable hub for fishing enthusiasts, nature geeks, and history buffs, promising explorers a hearty blend of historical knowledge and natural beauty.
  • 720 miles long
  • American Indian legacy
  • Euro-American settlement
  • Buffalo National River
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