Plan your baits based on water conditions: Begin with the tried-and-true shrimp and egg pattern (orange and/or yellow and/or pink) for a swift catch of rainbows; move to worms or to drifting a pink or white 2-inch worm as the water rises later in the morning. Spinnerbaits are also a good option in the morning before the higher releases.

Later in the day, as the water rises, pull out the big baits: Look for the 4- to 5-inch Smithwicks, orange bellies, blue or black backs, or a chrome and blue Husky Jerk. The brown trout X-Rap Rapala and the Elite Blue RPS-9 (Rapala’s size 9) are good baits to use as well. Brook trout Rapalas might be the secret this week.

“A family fishing adventure offers time together in an outdoor arena, sharing the day and watching nature ‘happen’ in real time, in a digital-free environment (or as much as you desire it to be.)  Go catching and enjoy Arkansas’s natural resources.”

Calico Rock Area

(updated 6-5-2025) Dave McCulley, owner of Jenkins Fishing Service in Calico Rock, said, “We have had some nice weather with more consistent water conditions.  Although Norfork Dam continues to release water from the sluice gates, the fish have acclimated and are hungry. The water from the sluice gates is warmer and, as a result, we are seeing water temperatures in the lower 60s. The last few days, the fish seem to be in deeper holes where the water is colder. 

“Drift-fishing with a silver inline spinner with eggs and shrimp or worm worked well. It might take an extra sinker to get the bait to the bottom.

“There is more rain expected through the weekend. I expect the lakes will continue to rise and we may see even higher releases from Norfork Dam.

“This week there was one stocking of 1,000 rainbows at the Calico Rock boat ramp with additional stockings at Reds Landing and Norfork.