Tips for Stocked Lake Trout Fishing in Arkansas

Arkansas is home to a variety of lakes that the Arkansas Department of Natural Resources stock with various trout species. Brown and rainbow trout inhabit many of the larger lakes, especially ones fed by rivers. Anglers can employ a variety of tactics to target these trout, which offer exciting catches and are excellent table fare.

  1. Gear

    • Anglers targeting trout in the lakes of Arkansas can use basic spinning rods of medium to heavy action, depending on the size of trout within the lake. Lightweight monofilament of 8- to 20-pound test works well for casting or bobber fishing, as the line is less visible within the water. Trolling requires a heavier strength line of 20 pound or higher to withstand the pressure and fish strikes. Fly rods are an ideal setup to use for fish near the surface or in areas of current near a river mouth.

    Area

    • Trout like cold moving water found in channels on the bottom of lakes and near moving water sources, such as a river or stream. The deepest areas of a lake are an ideal area to troll lures, since as brown and rainbow trout like to suspend in the dark depths below 20 feet. Anglers can find trout in ripples and behind rocks or fallen trees where a river dumps into a lake as they wait for baitfish to pass over and ambush them.

    Lures

    • Anglers have a variety of baits and lures to choose from when trout fishing in lakes, depending on the depth and underwater landscape. Small spinners with bright blades work well for casting into currents and drop-offs. Inline spinners with a night crawler can be used trolling, drifting or casting for trout at any depth. Medium and large crank baits, such as a Hot N'Tot, Rapala or Thunderstick, trolled at deep depths mimic baitfish and trigger strikes from the suspended trout.

    Method

    • Anglers targeting river mouths or stream inlets can use waders to access the moving waters by walking within the water. This method prevents fish from being spooked in the shallow depths by a boat, and allows for sight fishing for the trout. A deep "V" fishing boat equipped with a small outboard and trolling motor is ideal for targeting deep-water trout. The trolling motor or outboard will allow you to troll lures slowly, covering a large area. Anglers can be successful from the bank or pier in areas where the bottom of the lake drops off or near a water source such as a river.