White River Arkansas

While the White River trout don’t follow a strict entomology pattern like your western trout, they are still trout and can
be picky. They feed on various kinds of midges, small scuds and sowbugs, caddis, mayflies, up to crawfish, sculpin,
other trout, and even mice. You will want a selection of flies ranging from heavily weighted nymphs (Size 12-20) to
weightless streamers (articulated 2 - 2/0+)

We recommend standard 4 piece fly rod models for all travel with commercial airline carriers. Depending on the
season, different rod applications will be more useful than others.

Spring & Summer Rods for Trout
A nine-foot, 4-6 weight rod is the standard rod used by the vast majority of all anglers during the spring and summer months. Rainbow trout are 10-16 in and Browns are typically 16-24 in+ A softer rod is good for a more delicate presentation with nymphs and dries and a faster rod for delivering a cast with hoppers.

Fall & Winter Rods for Trout
Starting in late fall, the river flows fast and high. Heavy nymphing for deep water requires a longer4-6 weight rod with a good backbone as well as fast 7-9 weight rods for streamer applications.

Reels for fishing the White River are standard trout reels, but make sure each reel is spooled with an adequate
amount of backing. Due to the large river and the size of these fish, you need enough line capacity to account for
a fish running downstream. We recommend a solid machined reel with a smooth drag when fishing.

Most trout applications require a standard weight forward floating line, however a good heavy 250-350 grain sinking line is used for streamer fishing. We suggest the Rio Gold taper lines or Scientific Anglers Amplitude Infinity as well as Sonar Sink 25 Cold .

Depending on your fly application You should be equipped with a minimum of 5x pound leaders all the way up to 20lb fluorocarbon. Monofilament/Nylon Tapered leaders are commonly 3X-4X 7.5’-9’. When adding onto your tapered leaded, we recommend using fluorocarbon tippet material as it is stronger and more abrasion resistant.

Leader Recommendations: 7.5’-9’ - 3X-4X Monofilament/Nylon
Tippet Recommendations (1 Spool of Each - Fluorocarbon): 0X-5X

While there are not many wading opportunities on the White River, the right footwear in the boat is essential for keeping you comfortable on the water and will ultimately will keep you on the water to fish the full day.

A boat bag is important for carrying your tackle and gear with you on the boat each day. Running in the boats over open water oftentimes sprays mist into the boat, so you should have some type of waterproof or water resistant bag with you in the boat for storing cameras, lenses, tackle, flies, extra reels, spools, sunscreen, rain jackets, spare reel parts, bottled water, snacks, or anything else you don’t want to carry on you while fishing. Everything stays dry and out of the humidity. KEEP IT SMALL AND WATERPROOF/WATER RESISTANT.

We recommend roller style, soft-sided duffel bags for nearly all our travels. Ideally you have a bag that adheres to airline size restrictions but it is still large enough to fit a couple of rod tubes, tackle, boots and other gear. If you have a particularly large bag, we advise you to communicate with your commercial carrier as well as the TSA regarding any baggage weight restrictions that might be applicable.

We carry many excellent sets of luggage by Patagonia, Simms, and Fishpond. These bags are the ideal size, bulletproof, and are equipped with efficient roller systems. Some models also have separate compartments for
storing wet boots and/or waders or even rod tubes. Don’t forget to mark your luggage with appropriate personal identification bag tags.

A high quality, lightweight rain jacket is another essential piece of clothing while on the White River 12 months a year. Patagonia and Simms both make great lightweight jackets that will keep you dry during rainstorms or while running in the boat on a foggy day, and help block the wind.

When packing, keep in mind the social atmosphere at the White River Trout Club is extremely casual. Fishing clothing, t-shirts, sandals, etc. are always acceptable at the dinner table. Other than your fishing related clothing, a couple of t-shirts, and a pair of casual shorts or pants, we recommend only one set of street clothes for travel days.

The Ozarks of North Arkansas provide a wide array of weather conditions throughout the year. Mild to hot summers and winters ranging from mild to frigid cold and snow. If you are fishing in the autumn or winter months you should be prepared with cold weather gear. Make sure to check the weather forecast prior to packing and of course ask us for details if you have any questions about what to pack.

Sun Protection
The Arkansas sun is surprisingly intense even on cloudy days. Pack some sunblock and lip balm with a minimum of 30 SPF. Head / face tubes by BUFF or Blackstrap are a must have for most anglers. It is a comfortable, lightweight and breathable garment that functions similar to a bandanna and will keep UV rays off of your head, neck, and ears. We carry several styles and models.

Insect Repellent
Unfortunately, the areas around the White River are home to mosquitoes and ticks in the warmer months. Bring
some bug repellent and repellent that fights ticks.