Early Spring Fishing in Arkansas: What to Catch, Where to Go, and How to Succeed
Early spring is one of the most exciting—and underrated—times to fish in Arkansas. As water temperatures slowly climb and fish shake off winter patterns, anglers who know how to adjust can have some seriously productive days on the water. Whether you’re chasing bass, crappie, or stripers, early spring fishing in Arkansas is when things start to get reel good. This period also marks the best time for Early Spring Fishing in Arkansas.
Here’s how to make the most of early spring fishing across the Natural State.
By leveraging the advantages of Early Spring Fishing in Arkansas, you can significantly improve your catch rate.
Early Spring Fishing in Arkansas offers unique opportunities for anglers looking to make the most of the season. By understanding the behavior of fish during this time, you can enhance your chances of success.
Understanding Early Spring Conditions
Spring fishing is all about transition. Fish are moving from deep winter holding areas toward shallow flats, creek channels, and spawning zones. Water clarity can change quickly with rain, and temperatures may swing day to day—so flexibility is key.
What to watch for:
- Water temps in the upper 40s to mid-50s
- Rising lake and river levels after rain
- Increased baitfish activity near shallower water
Fish may not be aggressive all day long, but when the bite turns on, it can be incredible.
Top Species to Target
Largemouth & Spotted Bass
Bass begin staging near points, secondary channels, and rocky banks. Slow presentations usually win early in the season.
- Best baits: jigs, minnow patterns, frog patterns
- Focus on: transition areas between deep and shallow water
Crappie
Crappie fishing can be lights-out in early spring, especially on warming days.
- Best baits: small jigs and flies, minnow patterns
- Focus on: brush piles, creek arms, and submerged timber
Stripers & Hybrid Bass
These fish follow bait and can be extremely active in cooler water.
- Best baits: minnow patterns, wooley buggers, leach patterns
- Focus on: river channels, points, and current breaks
Best Early Spring Locations in Arkansas
Arkansas offers a wide range of spring fishing opportunities, including:
- Greers Ferry Lake – excellent for bass and crappie staging patterns
- Lake Ouachita – clear water and big bass potential
- Arkansas River – productive for bass and hybrids as water levels rise
- Bull Shoals & Norfork – great early action for stripers and smallmouth
Local knowledge makes a huge difference this time of year—conditions can change fast.
Tips for Spring Success
- Slow down your presentation – cold water fish don’t want to chase far
- Fish the warmest water available – even a few degrees matters
- Pay attention to weather trends – sunny afternoons often trigger bites
- Be patient – early spring rewards persistence
Want to Skip the Guesswork?
Early spring fishing can be tricky, but it can also be incredibly rewarding with the right approach. If you want to maximize your time on the water, fishing with a local guide takes the uncertainty out of the equation.
At Reel Good Fishing AR, we stay on the fish, track changing conditions, and tailor every trip to give you the best possible experience—whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned angler.
? Book a trip today and let’s make this spring one to remember. https://reelgoodfishingar.com/contact/#contact
Written by John Pineda a professional fishing guide with Reel Good Fishing.