Arkansas offers a wealth of family-friendly fishing opportunities, from serene lakes to winding rivers. With diverse fish species, well-equipped parks, and guided tours, the Natural State provides an ideal setting for memorable family fishing adventures. This guide explores top locations, amenities, and packages to help plan your perfect family fishing trip in Arkansas.
What Are the Best Family-Friendly Fishing Spots in Arkansas?
Arkansas boasts numerous fishing spots that cater to families, offering a mix of great fishing and convenient amenities. Here are some top locations:
- Lake Conway
- Location: Between Little Rock and Conway
- Amenities:
- New parking area
- Access points near U.S. Highway 89
- Dirt fishing jetty
- ‘Old Folks Hole’ for crappie fishing
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Accessibility: Bank access with space for up to 30 cars, shoreline fishing within 50 feet of the pavement
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White Oak Lake State Park
- Amenities:
- Campsites
- Picnic areas
- Playgrounds
- Marina with boat rentals and bait shop
- Hiking and bicycle trails
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Fishing Features:
- Gravel spawning beds for bream
- Fishing piers
- Interactive map for finding fishing spots
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Cane Creek Lake State Park
- Location: South shore of Cane Creek Lake
- Amenities:
- Parking area on the north side
- Fishing piers at picnic area and southern end
- Bathrooms
- Playgrounds
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Accessibility: 4½-mile walkable levee, fishing piers with brush underneath to concentrate fish
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Rainbow Drive Resort
- Location: White River
- Amenities:
- Bank fishing and river wading
- Screened porches
- Full-service boat dock with rentals and guide services
- Lawn area for children
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Activities: Free bank fishing, guide services for beginners, family storytelling by open fire
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Jack’s Fishing Resort
- Location: Mountain View
- Offerings:
- Trout fishing
- Rafting
- RV park
- Instructional videos
What Guided Family Fishing Tours Are Available in Arkansas?
For families seeking expert guidance and a structured fishing experience, Arkansas offers several guided tour options:
- Rainbow Drive Resort Tours
- Types of Tours:
- Fly fishing guide trips
- Spincast guide trips
- Jon boat rentals
- Features:
- Flexible duration and cost
- Suitable for beginners
- Available for various group sizes
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Special Activities: Safe fishing instruction, river navigation lessons
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Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) Guided Trips
- Program: Family and Community Fishing Program
- Features:
- Focus on accessible fishing opportunities
- Designed for family groups
- Emphasis on teaching fishing skills
Which Lakes in Arkansas Are Best for Family Fishing?
Arkansas lakes offer diverse fishing experiences suitable for families. Here’s a breakdown of some top lakes:
| Lake | Fish Species | Average Catch Sizes | Safety Regulations | Nearby Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Conway | Largemouth bass, crappie, bream | Double-digit bass, excellent crappie and bream | Standard AGFC regulations | Parking, fishing jetty, ‘Old Folks Hole’, bathrooms, picnic areas |
| White Oak Lake | Bream, bass, catfish | Varies, excellent bream during spawn | AGFC guidelines for catch limits | Campsites, picnic areas, playgrounds, marina, hiking trails |
| Cane Creek Lake | Crappie, catfish, bream, bass | Varies by water depth and species | Standard fishing regulations | Parking, fishing piers, bathrooms, playgrounds |
What Family Fishing Trip Packages Are Available in Arkansas?
Several resorts and organizations offer comprehensive fishing packages for families:
- Rainbow Drive Resort Packages
- Pricing: Varies based on lodging and activities
- Inclusions:
- Lodging
- Boat rentals
- Guide services
- Bank fishing access
- Family activities
- Scheduling: Flexible to accommodate family needs
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Regulations: Proper licensing required, guides provide regulatory guidance
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AGFC Family and Community Fishing Program
- Pricing: Often free or low-cost
- Inclusions:
- Guided fishing trips
- Fishing gear
- Educational materials
- Scheduling: Check AGFC website for event details
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Regulations: Standard AGFC fishing regulations apply
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Jack’s Fishing Resort Packages
- Pricing: Varies based on lodging and activities
- Inclusions:
- Lodging
- Trout fishing access
- Rafting
- RV park access
- Scheduling: Flexible for family needs
- Regulations: Proper licensing required, resort staff provide guidance
How Can Families Prepare for a Fishing Trip in Arkansas?
Proper preparation ensures a successful family fishing trip:
- Licensing: Obtain appropriate fishing licenses for all family members over 16.
- Equipment: Pack or rent necessary fishing gear, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle.
- Safety Gear: Bring life jackets, sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent.
- Clothing: Pack weather-appropriate clothing and water shoes.
- Food and Drink: Prepare snacks and plenty of water.
- First Aid Kit: Include basic medical supplies and any necessary medications.
- Camera: Capture memorable moments and impressive catches.
What Are Some Tips for a Successful Family Fishing Trip in Arkansas?
To ensure an enjoyable experience for all family members:
- Choose age-appropriate fishing spots and techniques.
- Teach basic fishing skills before the trip.
- Keep fishing sessions short, especially for younger children.
- Incorporate other activities like hiking or swimming.
- Be patient and focus on the experience rather than the catch.
- Practice catch and release to teach conservation.
- Bring along games or books for downtime.
- Plan meals and snacks to keep energy levels up.
By following this guide, families can plan and enjoy memorable fishing trips in Arkansas, taking advantage of the state’s beautiful natural resources and family-friendly facilities.
References:
1. Rainbow Drive Resort
2. Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
3. Jack’s Fishing Resort