Cotter, Arkansas -- Cotter Trout Dock (870-435-6525) said the White River watershed has seen some much-needed rain this week. Water clarity has remained very good, keeping the trout catching phenomenal. The water level has continued to be low; generation throughout the day averages between minimum flow and three units (9,000 cfs). Bull Shoals Lake is approaching seasonal power pool of 662 feet msl.
“The rainbow catches were achieved mainly with orange PowerBait tipped with shrimp on a size 6 Aberdeen or bait holder hook, bronze. Another favored bait for a great catch has been fresh soft-shell crawdads — when drifted mid-depth, you’ll increase your catch count. You might see higher water levels now that we’re nearing power pool, so watch for rising water and try a pumped-up nightcrawler. The rainbows are absolutely beautiful this year and the average size is increasing.
“The brown trout bite has been exceptional for late spring, with catches in the double-digits some days. Sculpins have been the ticket this week with several good keeper browns reeled in, photographed and sent quickly back to the river.
“With the recent heat wave, the cold, clear river provides even more of an escape than usual. Life is good. Come share it with us.”
Calico Rock Area
(updated 6-11-2026) Dave McCulley, owner of Jenkins Fishing Service in Calico Rock, said, ‘We have seen varied river conditions throughout the last week with lows around 3 feet and as high near 8 feet. When the water was lower, fishing was good using quarter-ounce Thomas Colorado nickel/gold spoons, Rapala CD7 Brown Trout or Dynamic HD in ghost brown. During the rising and falling water, drift-fishing with or without silver inline spinners with a No. 2 hook, Uncommon Bait Neo Pink UV eggs and raw shrimp worked well.
“During lower water conditions, water temperatures have reached over 70 degrees and the bite dies down. The best chance to catch trout is to fish the deeper holes or find where there are springs in the river. The warmer water also stresses the fish; be careful handling the fish and release the fish as quickly as possible.
“On Wednesday, the AGFC stocking raft stocked 4,000 rainbow trout between Calico Rock and Sylamore Creek. Stocking with the raft ensures wider distribution of the trout.”
