Camping and Fishing the White River Advice

[joeD]

I'm sure it will. After 10 hours of driving, why have a plan?

[AustinAngler]

Ok, after all halls' help and advice, this year I will skip the White this year because of the being closer to un-yakable, because  I want very much to do day yak trips with gorgeous scenery and nice fishing (fly or bait cast), along with setting camp for 3 or 4 days at a time.   What would you thing about spending the first 4 nights at Buffalo Point Recreation Area and Campground?  I researched and looks like awesome bluffs and scenery and very cool camp sites.  Anyone been there?  Is there the issue of low water there at this time or maybe in three weeks?  (yeah, I know you wouldn't be able to predict, but just wondering if it really fluctuates that much).  Then spend 3 nights at Ouchita Haven to shuttle for a few day trips, however, as I mentioned earlier, I talked to them last month and it was very low.  Thanks again guys.

[Guest]

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[Danimal]

I float the Ouachita regularly at low water, and plan on doing so this weekend. It's really not a big deal. Most spots you can simply get out of the boat and let it float a few feet. Very little dragging.

[AustinAngler]

Im on final approach for my trip, as I have reservations for this coming thursday at the Buffalo Rec Area.  Can you recommend what types of lures and flies to use there at this time of year.  I will plan on only doing day trips, by being dropped off upstream and yak back to camp, and fish downstream ( I guess to Rush) and shuttled back to camp.  

Danimal, how did you do that last float trip?

Thanks again for all of your help on me planning this.

[Danimal]

Did pretty well with a couple of 2 pounders and enough smaller ones to keep things interesting. Headed back down there tomorrow and camping at 2 Spirits campground (another one you may want to check out). As for flies and lures, I'm pretty sure you know the drill -- crawfish patterns, leech/hellgrammite patterns ( a dark colored  weighted wooly bugger can cover that). I did well with an olive Sex Dungeon on the Ouachita last weekend, but the Buffalo might be a bit too clear right now for such a large pattern. Clousers in the fast water are a good bet. The weather's remained warm here in Arkansas, so don't be afraid to try your poppers, hoppers, and bass bugs (use large ones or you'll catch mostly small sunfish). For conventional tackle keep it simple -- tubes, 5" finesse worms, or the old faithful 3 or 4" curly tail grub are all good. Small to medium size crankbaits and spinners are good too. Bottom line -- if they're biting at all you'll catch some LOL. Post a report and give me a heads up when you head to the Ouachita -- I may see ya down there. Good luck!