Butler Bungalow

Fishing the White River and Rim Shoals

The White River is a tailwater fishery located in Northern Arkansas. The Rim Shoals area is approximately 25 miles down river of the Bull Shoals Dam, between Buffalo City and Cotter, Arkansas.

The White River is noted for its trophy brown trout, but the staple fish is the rainbow, stocked by the millions. It is the fish most likely to be caught. In addition to the brown and rainbow trout, there are cutthroats and brookies stocked in the White. There is a fall spawning season of the brown trout and some of the rainbows are wild as well.

Riffles (known as shoals) are very productive spots to fish the White. Some of the more well known ones are near Rim Shoals, including Roundhouse, Wildcat, and Buffalo Shoals. Fish around islands, submerged rocks, in the runs, in long pools and backwater eddies. When the water rises, the riffles become flat water, more of a glide. Fish the edges and the current breaks. Look for underwater structure. Look around the gravel bars, you'll be surprised how many trout feed in the shallow waters. Trout are everywhere in this productive tailwater fishery. The White River puts pounds on fish quickly; trout grow as much as one-half to three-fourths of an inch a month.

The Rim Shoals section is a designated trophy area and special fishing regulations apply. Artificial flies or lures with multiple-point hooks are allowed, but all hooking points must be barbless. No live or scented baits allowed. All fish caught must be released. Check the Arkansas Game and Fish site for current regs. The boat ramp is located near the top of the catch and release boundary. You can easily motor outside the regulated area to catch and keep. To learn more about rules and regulations be sure to visit www.agfc.com You'll also be able to purchase your fishing license at their site. We want you to have a safe and happy visit.