Overnight Float Fishing in Ouachita Waters

2-Day Smallmouth Bonanza on Ouachita Waters

Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready to ditch the crowds and hook into some wild Arkansas smallmouth? Our overnight float trip is the real deal - two full days of fishing remote stretches of the Ouachita that most folks never see. We're talking pristine water, hungry bass, and nights under the stars. If you're itching for a true backcountry fishing adventure, this is your ticket.

Trip Overview

Here's the skinny: We'll meet up at the crack of dawn (6:30 AM sharp) and hit the water in canoes or kayaks. We're talking about covering serious river miles, so come prepared to put in some paddle time between fishing spots. But trust me, it's worth it. These stretches of the Ouachita are teeming with aggressive smallmouth that don't see much pressure. We'll fish all day, then set up camp right on the riverbank as the sun starts to dip. After a night of swapping fish stories around the campfire, we'll be back at it early the next morning for another full day of chasing bronze backs. The trip wraps up at 6 PM on day two, and I guarantee you'll be grinning from ear to ear (and probably a little sore).

What to Expect on the Water

Alright, let's talk tactics. We'll be primarily targeting smallmouth bass using a mix of light tackle and fly fishing gear (I've got you covered if you need to borrow anything). Expect to throw a lot of topwater in the mornings - there's nothing like watching a big smallie crash a buzzbait in the mist. As the day heats up, we'll switch to soft plastics, crankbaits, and streamers. The Ouachita has a mix of deep pools, riffles, and boulder-strewn runs, so we'll adjust our approach based on the water we're fishing. And heads up - while smallmouth are the main attraction, don't be surprised if you tangle with some feisty spotted bass or even the occasional walleye.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Look, I've guided all over Arkansas, and this stretch of the Ouachita is something special. It's not just about the fishing (though that's pretty darn good). It's about unplugging from the world for a couple of days, experiencing the river at its wildest, and challenging yourself as an angler. You'll be casting to fish that might never have seen a lure before. And there's something magical about waking up to the sound of the river, knowing you've got another full day of exploration ahead. Fair warning though - this trip tends to spoil folks. Once you've experienced backcountry smallmouth fishing like this, it's hard to go back to crowded boat ramps and pressured fish.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Smallmouth Bass: The crown jewel of the Ouachita, these bronze brawlers are the main reason we're out here. Ouachita smallies typically run in the 1-3 pound range, but don't be shocked if you tangle with a 4+ pounder. They love fast water and structure, so we'll target them around boulders, logs, and current seams. These fish fight like they're twice their size, often going airborne multiple times. Spring and fall are prime, but summer can be lights out if you know how to fish the deeper pools. The state record is over 7 pounds, and while I'm not saying we'll break it... I'm not saying we won't, either.

Spotted Bass: While not as numerous as smallmouth, the Ouachita's spotted bass are nothing to sneeze at. These fish love deeper water and tend to school up more than their brown bass cousins. They're aggressive feeders and will often hit baits intended for smallmouth. The average size is a bit smaller, but a 2-3 pound spotted bass will give you a run for your money. They're especially fun on light tackle or fly gear.

Walleye: This might surprise you, but the Ouachita has a solid population of walleye. They're not as common as the bass, but when you hook into one, you're in for a treat. These fish love deep, cool water and tend to be more active in low light conditions. We'll target them with jigs and crankbaits, especially around deeper pools and rocky areas. The Ouachita state record is over 22 pounds, so there are some real monsters lurking out there.

Time to Book Your Spot

Listen, if you're still reading this, I know you're itching to get out on the water. This overnight float trip is the real deal - it's for anglers who want to push themselves, experience true wilderness fishing, and maybe land the smallmouth of a lifetime. At $1,000 for up to two people, it's a steal considering the exclusive access and gear we provide. But spots fill up fast, especially during prime seasons. So if you're ready to leave the cell phone behind and dive into some of the best smallmouth fishing Arkansas has to offer, give us a shout. We'll get you set up with dates, gear lists, and everything else you need to know. Trust me, this is one fishing trip you'll be talking about for years to come. Let's get you on the water!