Where to Fly Fish in the Ouachita National Forest: Hidden Gems of Arkansas and Oklahoma
- Bretton Lakes
- Jul 10
- 5 min read
Where to Fly Fish in the Ouachita National Forest
When most anglers think of legendary fly fishing destinations, places like Montana’s Big Sky country or the trout streams of the Smokies come to mind. But tucked quietly in the rolling hills and rugged ridges of western Arkansas and southeastern Oklahoma lies a lesser-known paradise: the Ouachita National Forest.
Covering nearly 1.8 million acres, it’s the oldest and largest national forest in the southern United States. What many don’t realize is that it’s also home to clear mountain streams, deep pools, and a surprising variety of fish species — including rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, and native sunfish.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best spots to cast a fly in the Ouachita National Forest, what makes them special, and tips to plan your trip. If you’re looking for a fishing destination far from crowded rivers, the Ouachitas just might be your next favorite escape.
Why Fly Fish in the Ouachita National Forest?
The Ouachita Mountains are unlike the taller, sharper peaks you might see out West. Instead, they’re ancient, east-west running ridges blanketed in oak, pine, and hickory forests. This landscape creates hundreds of miles of small, cool streams and rivers that twist and turn through shaded valleys and rocky canyons.
Some reasons anglers love the Ouachitas:
Solitude: Even in peak season, it’s easy to find a stretch of water all to yourself.
Variety: Trout in stocked tailwaters, feisty smallmouth bass in clear mountain streams, and native longear sunfish in calm pools.
Scenery: Limestone bluffs, waterfalls, and forested hills create a backdrop that feels wild and untouched.
Year-round fishing: While spring and fall are prime, many streams fish well even in the summer.
Best Fly Fishing Spots in the Ouachita National Forest
Let’s look at specific streams, rivers, and lakes where fly anglers can find success. Most are easily accessible from forest roads or short hikes.
Little Missouri River (Arkansas)
Overview
Perhaps the most famous trout stream in the Ouachitas, the Little Missouri River below Lake Greeson is stocked regularly with rainbow trout. Cool tailwater released from the dam keeps temperatures suitable for trout much of the year.
Why fish here
Reliable trout fishing with easy access.
Scenic rocky pools and gentle cascades.
Opportunities to catch larger holdover fish, especially in spring and fall.
Tips
Focus on the area known as “River Ridge,” just below the dam.
Try small nymphs, woolly buggers, or dry flies like elk hair caddis.
Morning and evening hatches can bring trout to the surface.
Caddo River (Arkansas)
Overview
Flowing east from the heart of the Ouachita Mountains, the Caddo River offers clear, cool water ideal for smallmouth bass and sunfish.
Why fish here
Active smallmouth bass that love to chase streamers and poppers.
Scenic paddling opportunities — consider fishing from a canoe or kayak.
Good public access near Glenwood.
Tips
Target deeper pools and rocky runs, especially during warmer months.
Small crayfish and minnow patterns can be very effective.
Ouachita River (Arkansas)
Overview
The Ouachita River above Lake Ouachita cuts through forested ridges and offers a mix of smallmouth bass, spotted bass, and sunfish.
Why fish here
Larger water compared to the smaller mountain streams.
Great for floating and covering more ground.
Gorgeous views of the Ouachita Mountains.
Tips
Consider wading at low water, or float fishing during moderate flows.
Poppers early in the morning and streamers in deeper holes later in the day.
Mountain Fork River (Oklahoma)
Overview
Just west of the Arkansas border in Oklahoma, the Lower Mountain Fork River below Broken Bow Lake is a year-round trout fishery.
Why fish here
Regularly stocked with rainbow and brown trout.
Several miles of tailwater offering riffles, pools, and boulder-strewn runs.
Cool, clear water even in the summer.
Tips
Fish the section around Beavers Bend State Park for easier access.
Try dry-dropper rigs in shallower runs and streamers in deeper pools.
Watch for heavy summer crowds near the park; early mornings and weekdays offer more solitude.
Winding Stair Mountain Streams (Oklahoma)
Overview
In the Oklahoma section of the Ouachita National Forest, small, high-gradient streams tumble down the slopes of the Winding Stair Mountains.
Why fish here
True backcountry feel and minimal angling pressure.
Native sunfish and small bass in crystal-clear water.
Ideal for ultralight rods and short casts.
Tips
Keep gear simple: a 3-weight rod, short leader, and a box of small dries.
Fish tight to cover and under overhanging branches.
Lake Fishing Opportunities
While the Ouachita National Forest is best known for rivers and streams, it also surrounds several large lakes, including:
Lake Ouachita
Lake Greeson
DeGray Lake
These lakes provide warmwater fly fishing for largemouth bass, spotted bass, bluegill, and even carp in shallow coves.
Tips
Focus on mornings and evenings when fish are most active.
Look for structure: submerged timber, weed edges, and rock piles.
Seasonal Guide to Fly Fishing in the Ouachitas
Spring
Peak season for both trout and bass.
Rivers run higher from spring rains; fishing can be excellent in pools and slower runs.
Dry fly fishing picks up as hatches emerge.
Summer
Trout tailwaters like the Little Missouri and Mountain Fork stay cool.
Bass move into deeper pools; early mornings and evenings best.
Be mindful of heat and check water temperatures before fishing for trout.
Fall
Cooler water brings bass back into shallows.
Fall colors make this one of the most beautiful times to fish.
Brown trout in the Mountain Fork may spawn; fish with care.
Winter
Trout fishing continues on tailwaters.
Cold weather keeps crowds away; great time for solitude.
Gear and Techniques
Rods and Reels
For trout: 4 or 5 weight rods, 8.5–9 feet long.
For smallmouth bass and lakes: 5 or 6 weight rods.
Flies
Nymphs: Hare’s ear, pheasant tail, copper john.
Streamers: Woolly buggers, clouser minnows.
Dry flies: Elk hair caddis, blue-winged olives, terrestrials.
Waders and Boots
Breathable chest waders for spring and fall.
Wet wading in summer months.
Access and Regulations
Most streams discussed are on public land, but check maps and local signs.
Arkansas and Oklahoma both require fishing licenses; tailwaters may have special regulations.
Catch-and-release is recommended on native fish, especially smallmouth bass.
Tips for a Great Trip
Start early: Morning light, cooler temperatures, and more active fish.
Use stealth: Clear water means fish can be wary.
Combine activities: Hike, paddle, or camp to make the most of your trip.
Watch the weather: Sudden thunderstorms can raise water levels quickly.
Beyond the Water
Fly fishing isn’t the only reason to visit the Ouachita National Forest:
Hiking: Explore trails like the Ouachita National Recreation Trail or Eagle Rock Loop.
Camping: Dozens of campgrounds and dispersed sites.
Scenic drives: Talimena Scenic Drive offers sweeping views.
Wildlife: Keep an eye out for black bears, deer, and migratory songbirds.
Getting There and Where to Stay
Arkansas side: Access towns include Hot Springs, Glenwood, and Mena.
Oklahoma side: Broken Bow and Talihina make good bases.
Camping: Developed campgrounds like Albert Pike, Shady Lake, or Beavers Bend State Park.
Final Thoughts
Fly fishing the Ouachita National Forest won’t feel like fishing the Madison or the Delaware. And that’s exactly the point. Here, you’ll find quiet pools under limestone bluffs, bass rising to poppers in glassy water, and trout in overlooked tailwaters.
It’s an unhurried place, perfect for anglers who value solitude and scenery as much as the size of the catch. Whether you’re drifting dry flies below Broken Bow Lake, wading into a rocky bend of the Caddo, or exploring a hidden creek on the side of Winding Stair Mountain, the Ouachitas offer wild beauty and true adventure — without the crowds.
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