Chances are you'll need a boat. The lake level is close to pool, but there is a lot of inflow right now (running 10,000 cfs and basically holding the lake steady). The weather coming in tomorrow won't help that either. Norfork is in the same position, as is the Little Red.
Mountain River FlyShop is a great place to get advice or gear, in Cotter (like Travis said). Blue Ribbon Flies is still open as well, but Dale Fulton doesn't work there or own it anymore. Unlike Travis said, I would NOT listen to Mike on Wilson's board... he is just a shopfly that wade fishes public access areas and brown-noses for info.
There has not been a noticable shadkill yet this year. Keep your fingers crossed for that, but don't bet on seeing one. If there is one get a boat close to the dam and watch out for the other boats... it can be dicey.
You can rent boats all over the White. There is a dock at the Cotter ramp that has some if you can't find a section of river you want with rental boats in it. If you do rent a boat, you really need some degree of experience on BIG water with a long narrow boat. DO NOT DROP ANCHORS or use a drag chain. You will need one person skulling the motor into the current while others fish.
Crashing the bank with big articulated streamers and heavy sink tips (200-300 grain- 24 ft sinktips) will give you your best shot at the big boys. You can also work SJ worms and other larger, brighter nymphs over submerged grass beads/down banks and pull on some bows. To do this you will need long leaders, lots of weight and large indicators.
If you need more help let me know... good luck and be safe.
Phil
www.arkansastroutbum.com
Topic: White River - Arkansas Suggestions? (Read 5506 times)