Expect early morning chill followed by a welcome rise in the temperature for now. March is coming, though, so be prepared for weather changes and maybe a return to winter.

The ample brown trout bite has proven that late winter is a great time to visit the White River, and the rainbows aren’t ignoring the bait either. Shad, minnows and sculpins are the preferred meal for a hungry brown; egg patterns (light yellow peach colored) with an orange leading bead have caused some excitement, too. Do not leave home without a supply of jigs. Moss green, brown and orange and peach/moss will lead the catch.

Nightcrawlers proved their worth for bank fishermen. Spinners, especially the 3/16-ounce gold Blue Fox Spinner played about a foot or 2 below the surface, produced more than a few smiles.

“Winter probably isn’t through with us yet, but we will take advantage of this early spring-like weather while it’s here! Keep anglin’ and we’ll see you at the river.”

Calico Rock Area
(updated 2-19-2026) Dave McCulley, owner of Jenkins Fishing Service in Calico Rock, said, “The last several days we have seen water levels from just over 2 feet to 3.5 feet. With this low water, drift-fishing dragging bait has not been very effective due to the low flow. Artificial lures have worked well. Quarter-ounce Thompson Colorado Spoons in nickel/gold have worked well for rainbow trout. Rapala Countdown CD7 in brown trout, rainbow trout or silver/black along with Dynamic HD lures in ghost brown or silver/black have worked well for some very nice 24-inch-plus brown trout.
“With the low water, be careful navigating the river. Many gravel bars have been exposed or are just barely underwater. If you are in the Memphis area this weekend, stop by the Mid-South Sport and Boat Show at the Agricenter and see us.”