Full Day Trout Fishing on North Fork River
Private Trip
River Fishing
Fullday guided trout fishing on Arkansas' North Fork RiverExpert guide targets rainbow, brown, brook trout and smallmouth bassAll fishing gear and bottled water included for two guests
If you're looking for a top-rated Arkansas trout fishing experience, the North Fork River delivers in spades. This full-day guided trip with Clint Wilkinson puts you right in the heart of some of the best trout water in the Natural State. We're talking crystal-clear flows, consistent fish populations, and the kind of scenery that makes you forget you left home at 5 AM. The North Fork's cold water releases from Norfolk Dam create perfect conditions for rainbow, brown, and brook trout year-round, while smallmouth bass add some extra punch to your day. Pack your lunch, dress for the weather, and get ready to work some productive water with a guide who knows every bend, riffle, and deep pool on this renowned stretch of river.
Your day starts with meeting Clint at the put-in, where he'll get you rigged up and talk through the game plan. The North Fork flows with that perfect trout stream personality – alternating between shallow riffles where fish feed actively and deeper pools where the big ones like to sulk. We'll drift and wade depending on conditions and what the fish are telling us. Clint's got this river dialed in after years of guiding here, so he'll position you where the action is hottest. Expect to move around throughout the day, hitting different sections as we read the water and follow the bite. The boat comfortably handles two anglers, giving everyone plenty of room to cast without tangling lines. All your gear is provided, from rods and reels to tackle, so you can focus on technique and enjoying the ride down one of Arkansas' most scenic waterways.
The North Fork fishes beautifully with multiple approaches, and Clint will match techniques to conditions and what's working that day. We're talking everything from nymph rigs bounced through the deeper runs to dry flies during hatch periods when trout are looking up. Streamer fishing can be absolutely deadly here, especially for bigger brown trout lurking in undercut banks and deeper pools. The gear setup varies based on what we're targeting – lighter tackle for the smaller rainbows and brook trout, with enough backbone to handle a chunky brown or feisty smallmouth when they decide to make a run. Clint provides quality rods, reels, and all terminal tackle, including flies, nymphs, and lures that have proven effective on this water. He'll teach you to read the current seams, identify holding water, and adjust your presentation based on what the fish want. Whether you're new to fly fishing or want to dial in your technique, you'll pick up skills that translate to trout streams everywhere.
Rainbow trout are the bread and butter of North Fork fishing, and these fish fight way above their weight class. Most rainbows here run 12-16 inches, but don't be surprised when a chunky 18-incher decides to test your drag system. They're most active during cooler parts of the day and love to smash dry flies during insect hatches. Spring through fall offers consistent rainbow action, with some of the best fishing happening during overcast conditions when they're less spooky and more willing to move up in the water column.
Brown trout are the river's ultimate prize fish – smart, moody, and absolutely gorgeous when you finally fool one. These guys can push 20+ inches and have the attitude to match their size. Browns prefer deeper pools and undercut banks during daylight hours, making them perfect targets for streamer fishing and deep nymphing techniques. Fall is prime time for brown trout as they become more aggressive before spawning, but skilled anglers can hook into them throughout the season. When a big brown takes your fly and heads for the heavy cover, you'll understand why trout fishing gets addictive.
Brook trout bring that wild, native appeal that keeps anglers coming back. Though typically smaller than rainbows and browns, brookies are stunning fish with incredible coloration – especially during spawning season when their bellies turn bright orange-red. They love cold, well-oxygenated water and often hold in pocket water and smaller tributaries. Brook trout can be less selective than browns, making them great targets for newer anglers looking to build confidence. Their willingness to hit both flies and small lures makes them a customer favorite throughout the season.
The North Fork River offers world-class trout fishing in a setting that showcases Arkansas at its finest. Clint's local knowledge, quality gear, and patient instruction create the perfect recipe for a memorable day on the water. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, introducing someone to trout fishing, or just need to get away from the daily grind, this full-day trip delivers the goods. The two-person boat size keeps things intimate and ensures everyone gets plenty of individual attention. Remember that deposits are non-refundable, so plan accordingly – but honestly, once you experience the North Fork's legendary fishing, you'll be planning your return trip before you even get off the water. Contact Wilkinson Outdoor Adventures today to secure your dates for this trending Arkansas fishing adventure.
Our 21-foot 2160 Topwater aluminum boat cuts through Arkansas' North Fork River waters with ease, powered by a reliable Mercury jet outboard that handles shallow stretches where trout love to hide. This sturdy fishing platform reaches up to 25 knots, getting you and one other angler to prime spots quickly while the flat deck design provides stable casting room for working those productive runs and pools. The boat's GPS navigation keeps us on track to secret honey holes, while the fish finder helps locate schools of rainbow, brown, and brook trout plus smallmouth bass holding in deeper channels. Built tough for river conditions, this aluminum workhorse handles rocky shallows and swift currents with confidence, letting guide Clint focus on putting you on fish rather than worrying about the boat. Perfect for two anglers who want personalized attention and access to waters that bigger vessels can't reach on the scenic North Fork.
Salvelinus FontinalisBrook trout are the gems of the trout world with their stunning colors - olive backs with yellow spots and vibrant orange fins edged in white and black. These native beauties stay smaller, typically 8-14 inches, but what they lack in size they make up for in beauty and spirit. Look for them in the coldest, cleanest water below 68°F, often tucked against undercuts and fallen timber. Late fall brings out their spawning colors and aggressive feeding. Anglers love brookies for their willingness to bite and their gorgeous appearance - they're living artwork. The meat is delicate and sweet. Since brook trout are less spooky than other species, try working tight spots with short, accurate casts using small spinners or flies.
Tylosurus AcusBrown trout are the smart ones - they average 10-20 inches but can push much bigger in the North Fork's deeper holes. These golden-brown fish with dark spots are notorious for being picky and preferring low-light conditions. You'll find them tucked under overhangs, near fallen timber, or in the deepest pools where they feel secure. Fall is prime time when they get aggressive before spawning. What keeps anglers coming back is the challenge - browns are wary and put up a bulldogging fight once hooked. They're also fantastic table fare with firm, flavorful meat. My go-to tip: fish streamers at dusk near structure, and don't be afraid to go bigger than you think - these fish will eat substantial meals.
Oncorhynchus ClarkiiCutthroat trout are easy to spot with those distinctive red slashes under their jaw. In Arkansas waters, they typically run 10-16 inches and are more willing biters than browns. You'll find them in well-oxygenated areas with rocky bottoms and clean, cold water. They love hanging near cover like vegetation and fallen logs. Spring through early summer provides consistent action as they actively feed on insects. Anglers appreciate cutthroats because they're aggressive strikers and provide steady action throughout the day. Their meat is sweet and delicate. Since cutthroats are eager feeders, matching the current insect hatch works well - watch for rises and fish dry flies during active feeding periods for the best success.
Oncorhynchus MykissRainbow trout are the classic North Fork catch, running 12-18 inches and weighing 2-6 pounds on average. These beauties are known for their pink stripe and acrobatic jumps when hooked. You'll find them in faster current areas and deeper pools, especially where the water stays cool around 55-65°F. Spring and fall offer the best action when they're actively feeding. What makes them special is their willingness to take flies and their strong fight - they'll test your drag and make multiple runs. The meat is excellent eating with that distinctive pink flesh. Here's a local trick: when the water's clear, try dead-drifting a small nymph just off the bottom near undercut banks where they like to hold.
Arkansas