Copper John's Resort: Arkansas Fishing Guidelines - Know Before You Go

Do I need a fishing license?

Yes. Anyone age 16 and older must acquire a fishing license from the State of Arkansas to fish legally. You must also obtain a Trout Permit to catch and keep trout. It is the responsibility of the angler to secure his or her own license and necessary permits. Your fishing guide cannot do this for you.

How do I get a fishing license in Arkansas?

It's quick and easy to purchase a fishing license and trout permit in the state of Arkansas. Simply visit agfc.com/resources/licensing/ and click the "Buy a License or Permit" button. From there, you will need to select the "Fishing" tab and select which type of license applies to your situation. For example, if you are only planning to fish as a non-resident for the weekend, you could apply for the "Non-Resident 3 Day Trip Fishing License" and the "Non-Resident Trout Permit". Once you've been approved for a fishing license and trout permit, you can download it to your phone.

Arkansas residents 65 years of age and older may qualify for the "65 Plus Annual Fishing License". Arkansas residents with a "White River Border Lakes License" may also fish Norfork, Table Rock, and Bull Shoals Lakes in Missouri without a non-resident Missouri license.

How much does an Arkansas fishing license cost?

Current Fishing License fees can be found by visiting the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission website.

How many trout can I keep? What are the length and weight limits?

Your fishing guide will be familiar with all the rules and regulations to keep you legal. You may also review, download, or print the official Arkansas Fishing Guidebook.

How do I choose a Fishing Guide?

Explore Copper John's Fishing Guides page for a current directory of local fishing guides. We aim to ensure our guests don't waste valuable time calling around to find the perfect guide for their needs. That’s why we’ve curated a list of trusted and experienced guides, organized by the services they provide (Spin Fishing, Fly Fishing, or both) and highlighting what distinguishes them from others. Copper John's doesn't receive a kickback from recommending one guide over another because we want to make sure you get the best guide for your needs. Our mission is to assist you in choosing the guide that best fits your skill level, group size and ages, creating a personalized fishing experience to give you memories that will keep you coming back for more.

Many of our guides have been fishing these waters for 30+ years and all of them provide everything you need for your fishing adventure. Some will even pick you up from the resort in their boat at the river's edge and pack a lunch for you. The guides offer 1/2 day and full day excursions for individuals, couples, families, and small groups. Some guides specialize in catching that trophy fish while others really enjoy taking kids out on the water. No matter which guide you choose, each one of them is dedicated to making sure you have a great time! You can call fishing guides directly from our website or visit their pages for more information.

What is fishing on the White River like throughout the year?

Due to Copper John's proximity to the Bull Shoals Dam, our clear waters maintain an abundant trout population throughout the year. While fishing for brown trout in the White River is restricted from November until January for spawning season, you can still catch rainbow trout, cutthroat, and brook trout. The dam opens up in two hour intervals throughout the day providing fresh water flow and optimal temperatures for fish to thrive all year. In the early to late morning hours, lower water levels are ideal for wade fishing. A common practice for anglers with boats and fishing guides is to rush up to the dam in the afternoons and evenings, floating back down stream, just to repeat the process again and again, catching trout as they go.



You can also fish for bass, catfish, crappie, striper, and walleye in Bull Shoals and Norfork lakes.