For fishing enthusiasts staying at River Ridge Inn, you won’t have to venture far to experience some of the best trout fishing in the world. Right in our backyard, the Norfork River and the White River offer unparalleled opportunities for anglers to catch trophy-sized trout in some of the most scenic surroundings in Arkansas.
The North Fork River, stretching for approximately five miles from the North Fork Dam near Norfork before merging with the White River, is a renowned trout fishery. This short stretch of river consistently produces some of the largest trout in the state, making it a must-visit for anglers seeking trophy fish. In fact, the North Fork holds the Arkansas state record for German brown trout, with a massive 38-pound catch. The river's cold, clear waters, regulated by the dam, provide the perfect habitat for rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout year-round.
Fishing on the North Fork is a dream for both fly fishers and those using spinning tackle. Anglers can expect to find plenty of rainbow trout, which are stocked regularly by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, ensuring a healthy and thriving population. Whether you prefer drifting flies through gentle currents or casting lures into deeper pools, the North Fork offers diverse fishing conditions suitable for all skill levels. The cold, steady water temperatures, thanks to the dam, mean the fish are active and hungry throughout the year, so there's never a bad time to cast your line.
If you want to explore beyond the North Fork, the White River is another world-class fishery just steps from River Ridge Inn. The White River is famed across North America for its variety of trout species and its ability to produce record-breaking fish. In 1992, the river set a world record with a 40-pound, 4-ounce brown trout, a testament to the rich and fertile waters of this legendary river. Like the North Fork, the White River boasts cold, oxygen-rich waters that provide an ideal environment for rainbow, brook, cutthroat, and brown trout.
The White River offers a variety of fishing experiences, from shallow riffles perfect for fly fishing to deeper pools where large brown trout lurk. These deeper sections are known for yielding some of the most impressive catches in the region, especially brown trout that grow to significant sizes. The river is also regularly stocked, ensuring that whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, you'll have plenty of chances to reel in a great catch.
What makes both rivers exceptional is their consistency. Thanks to the cold water released from the bottom of the dams, the North Fork and White Rivers maintain the optimal conditions for trout year-round. You don't have to worry about fluctuating temperatures or water levels – the fishing is always good, no matter the season.
Whether you're looking to chase that record-breaking brown trout or simply enjoy a peaceful day by the water, the North Fork and White Rivers provide an unbeatable fishing experience. With such incredible fishing just steps away from your accommodations at River Ridge Inn, you can spend more time doing what you love and less time traveling to prime fishing spots.
These rivers aren't just places to fish – they're destinations that draw anglers from around the world. So pack your gear, step outside, and get ready for an unforgettable day on the water. Whether you're drifting a fly on the North Fork or exploring the deeper sections of the White River, the adventure awaits right here in our backyard.
