Arkansas offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities, from trout-filled mountain streams to bass-rich lakes. This guide explores the best fishing tackle shops, popular brands, and customer reviews across the Natural State. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, you’ll find valuable information on where to get the right gear for your next Arkansas fishing adventure.
Where Can I Find the Best Fishing Tackle Shops in Arkansas?
Arkansas boasts several excellent fishing tackle shops catering to anglers of all levels. Here are some top options:
- Beaver Dam Store
- Location: On the Beaver Tailwaters of the White River, northwest Arkansas
- Operating Hours:
- Mon-Weds: Closed
- Thurs: 8am-2pm
- Fri-Sun: 7am-5pm
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Specialties: Fly and conventional tackle for trout, smallmouth bass, striped bass, largemouth bass, and white bass
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Bass Pro Shops – Little Rock
- Location: 1 Bass Pro Dr, Little Rock, AR 72210
- Contact: (501) 954-4500
- Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
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Offerings: Comprehensive selection of rods, reels, lures, bait, and all other fishing gear
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Southtown Sporting Goods
- Location: Fayetteville, Northwest Arkansas
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Specialties: Top-quality brands such as Falcon, Megabass, SPRO
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Anglers White River Resort Store
- Location: On the White River
- Offerings: Rods, reels, line, artificial lures for trout and bass, natural baits
What Are the Most Popular Fishing Tackle Brands in Arkansas?
Arkansas anglers have access to a wide range of fishing tackle brands. Some of the most popular include:
- Bass Pro Shops XPS: Known for quality and affordability
- Shimano: Renowned for high-performance reels
- Abu Garcia: Popular for both rods and reels
- Falcon: Favored for their rods
- Megabass: Highly regarded for their lures
- SPRO: Known for innovative lure designs
How Do Customer Reviews Rate Arkansas Fishing Tackle?
Customer reviews provide valuable insights into the quality and performance of fishing tackle available in Arkansas:
- Bass Pro Shops
- Pros: Wide selection, quality products, knowledgeable staff
- Cons: Some premium items can be expensive
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Highly rated: XPS Rod and Reel Combos, Shimano reels
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Southtown Sporting Goods
- Pros: Expert staff, excellent selection of top brands
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Highly rated: Falcon rods, Megabass lures
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Beaver Dam Store
- Pros: Expert advice, tackle tailored to local conditions
- Highly rated: Overall customer experience and staff knowledge
What Are the Current Fishing Tackle Sales and Promotions in Arkansas?
Savvy anglers can take advantage of various sales and promotions:
- Bass Pro Shops
- Seasonal events: “Fall Favorites” and “Hunting Season” sales
- Special promotions: “October CLUB Flyer” and “Flannel Fest”
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Price range: $20 to $200 for essential items
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Southtown Sporting Goods
- Competitive pricing on top brands
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Price range: $50 to $200 for rods and reels
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Beaver Dam Store
- Focus on providing the right tackle for local conditions
- No specific promotions mentioned
How Do I Choose the Right Fishing Tackle for Arkansas Waters?
Selecting the appropriate tackle depends on your target species and fishing location. Here’s a quick guide:
| Species | Recommended Tackle |
|---|---|
| Trout | Light to medium-light rods, 4-6 lb line, small lures or flies |
| Bass | Medium to medium-heavy rods, 8-12 lb line, variety of lures |
| Catfish | Heavy rods, 20-30 lb line, circle hooks, sinkers |
| Crappie | Ultralight to light rods, 4-6 lb line, small jigs or minnows |
For specific recommendations, consult with staff at local tackle shops who are familiar with Arkansas waters.
What Essential Fishing Tackle Should I Have for Arkansas Fishing?
Every Arkansas angler should have these basic items in their tackle box:
- Assortment of hooks (various sizes)
- Sinkers and weights
- Bobbers or floats
- Pliers and line cutters
- Variety of lures (crankbaits, spinnerbaits, soft plastics)
- Live bait options (worms, minnows, crickets)
- First aid kit
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
Remember to tailor your tackle selection based on your target species and fishing location.
How Can I Maintain My Fishing Tackle for Longevity?
Proper maintenance ensures your fishing tackle lasts longer and performs better:
- Rinse rods and reels with fresh water after use, especially in saltwater
- Dry equipment thoroughly before storage
- Lubricate reels regularly according to manufacturer instructions
- Store rods vertically or horizontally to prevent warping
- Replace fishing line periodically to avoid breakage
- Keep hooks sharp and replace when necessary
- Organize lures and tackle to prevent tangling and damage
By following these tips, you’ll extend the life of your fishing gear and improve your chances of success on Arkansas waters.