Looking for largemouth and small mouth bass fishing? If you are looking for a place to vacation that has great Arkansas bass fishing, lots of bass fishing tournaments and a touch of Paradise, we invite you to visit the Ozarks. Tucked between the mountains there are two Corps of Engineer lakes that are crystal clear and full of fish. They are the Norfork Lake in Baxter County and Bull Shoals Lake in Marion County.
Norfork sits at 554 feet above sea level and is a 22,000 acre impoundment with excellent crappie, striper, largemouth bass and small mouth bass fishing. Bull Shoals Lake is an impoundment of the White River. It is 83 miles long, has 1,123 miles of shoreline, 45,440 acres at normal pool and sits 654.23 feet above sea level.
Bull Shoals Lake is a significant fishery with a national reputation. This lake has it all - Blue Gill, Walleye, Catfish, Crappie, spotted (Kentucky) bass, White Bass, largemouth, small mouth bass fishing. Whatever your pleasure is you can find it here, including excellent bass fishing tournaments.
To be fished effectively, clear water dictates that light line must be used. Bull Shoals Lake has a green stain to it, which is brought on by the spring pollen off the trees; therefore moss green monofilament is the color of line that disappears in the water. Bass lures can be handled on 6 to 12 pound test line, walleye baits on 6 to 8 pound test line, crappie and white bass baits on 4 to 6 pound test line. This is not a lake with aquatic vegetation, so heavy tackle is not needed. Even during high water, anglers need to keep the boat far enough away from the bank so they don't "spook" the fish. Local experts tend to prefer natural colors in lure selection (shad or crawdad) due to water clarity.
Spring Arkansas bass fishing (April through June): During this period the lake starts to warm up and when it reaches 52 degrees the walleye move into the creek arms to spawn and the bass start to put on the feed bag and position themselves in transition areas in the creeks and coves. Once the lake temperature reaches the upper 50's the Smallmouth bass move onto gravel banks and sandstone ledges to spawn. Tube baits, Sinko's and jig and pigs will definitely get you a sore arm from a whole lot of action.
When the lake temperature reaches 60 to 62 degrees, the largemouth and spotted (Kentucky) bass will move up to spawn. The largemouth will move to the back of the creeks and the spotted (Kentucky) bass will move up onto chunk rock banks. Jig and pigs, Flukes, Sinko's and lizards are key baits for both species. After spawn, you can pound the banks with top water baits, spinnerbaits and crankbaits and have a blast.
Summer Arkansas bass fishing (July through September): Largemouth bass can be found anywhere from the shallows to depths in excess of 40 feet. They tend to form small schools and relate to flat areas of ledges, old roadways or deep stumps. Most feeding occurs early or late in the day. Surface lures (Zara Spooks, Chug Bugs, Pop R's, etc.) work well on calm mornings if bass are feeding on shad. Smallmouth and spotted (Kentucky) bass can be found on points composed of pea gravel and chunk rock. The banks and points that "stair-step" into deep water seem to be more attractive to the fish. Spinnerbaits and crank baits work well on cloudy days. Spider jigs, grubs and Sinko's fished on a Mojo rig work well if the wind is down.
Fall Arkansas Bass Fishing (October and November): This is a time for transition for most species as they move from summer to winter holding areas. Active moving fish means a superb bite. Almost any technique you wish to use will catch largemouth, Smallmouth and spotted (Kentucky) bass. Buzzbaits in the mornings are a blast and crank baits on windy days can be exciting, but it is hard not to throw a spinnerbait and get the pole jerked out of your hand. The fall pattern will continue until the lake temperature drops below 60 degrees, then it is time to slow down as reaction baits will shut off.
Winter Arkansas Bass Fishing (December through March): Some people say that winter is a tough time to catch bass. That can be argued against. The bass will school up with the shad in the warmest water they can find and with a little graphing they are easy to spot. Football jigs fished along the bottom through the schools will produce some great action. Another technique that is used is spooning vertically and ripping the spoon through the shad. This technique will trigger the largemouth and spotted (Kentucky) bass under the shad and you might even catch a walleye or two.
This is just a short outline on what Bull Shoals Lake has to offer.
Article written by Rick Culver (Ranger Pro Staff and owner of Wilderness Trail)


Phone Number: 870-467-5341
Web Site: http://www.foutboatdock.com
Even on busy holiday weekends you'll find plenty of lake space for wide-open boat cruising and watersports like tubing, skiing, and boarding. You'll find quiet spots for fishing, swimming, and relaxing. This is a scenic part of Norfork lake, and there are very few buildings visible along the shoreline. If you enjoy hunting and wildlife watching the Bennetts Point wildlife management area is right across the lake from us.
Phone Number: 870-431-8363
Web Site: http://www.blackoakresort.com
Relax amid the clear blue waters of Bull Shoals Lake in spacious one-of-a-kind cabins: King Beds, Whirlpool Tubs, Fireplaces, Skylights, Full Kitchens, Central Heat/Air, Wood Decks. Boat Dock, Bass Boat, Pontoon rentals, Guide Service. Swimming
Phone Number: 417-273-4362
Web Site: http://www.turkeycreekranch.com
Lake Resort with a Dude Ranch Flavor Nestled in Ozark Mountain Country right next to Bull Shoals Lake this unique dude and guest ranch among magnificent scenery and wildlife of the area. The Edwards family has owned and operated Turkey Creek Ranch for over 43 years, making exceptional ranch vacations their priority. Through careful planning and hard work they have turned Turkey Creek Ranch into a lake resort that has a dude ranch flavor.Phone Number: 870-446-2779
Web Site: http://www.lagercabin.com
"Nature Lover's Paradise" Lager Cabin is secluded within the Ozark Mountains and located only three miles from Kyle’s Landing on the Upper Buffalo River. Canoeing, Swimming, and Hiking access availability are excellent. Upper Buffalo River is nearby with many beautiful views and relaxation awaiting for you. Lager Cabin is just four miles to Jasper with many cafés, in which to dine. For your relaxation and fun make Lager Cabin part of your plans.
Phone Number: 870-492-5115
Web Site: http://www.blackburnsresort.com
Blackburns Resort has the ability to handle high water with no diminished services. We are in a sheltered cove and very near good fishing and boating. Child and pet friendly. Blackburns is your fishing, diving and family headquarters. Save $ towards h
Phone Number: 870-445-4424
Web Site: http://www.bullshoalslakeboatdock.com
Full service Marina on Bull Shoals Lake , Houseboat-fishing-bass-ski-pontoon rentals , Yamaha Wave runners and Connelly wake boards. Scuba Dive shop with air, sales and rentals. Lighthouse Point Resort rooms with pool. Gas, bait, tackle, launching ramp, a
Phone Number: 870-445-5971
Web Site: http://bullmountain-resort.com
Bull Mountain Resort is a five acre family resort, situated in a park-like setting. We have nine, very nice housekeeping cottages, four units are two bedroom log cabins. The resort has a pool, play area and horseshoe pits. Each cottage has a grill, picn
Phone Number: 870-467-5986
Web Site: http://www.TheCoveVacationLakeHomes.com
Luxury accommodations at down home prices. The Cove Homes are the perfect place to stay at Lake Norfork, any time of the year. The Cove's two secluded 4 bedroom lakeview homes, each privately accommodate 8 to 14 guests or group gatherings of up to 30. Included are great amenities, easy access to your own lake cove and large covered decks to relax on. Recreational activities abound with marinas, boat rentals, restaurants and more just minutes away. Why stay anywhere else?
Phone Number: 870-431-4252
Web Site: http://www.deerrunguesthouse.com
Want a quiet relaxing vacation? Call Deer Run Guest House and Cabins on Bull Shoals Lake. All our cabins have a covered porch and picnic area. The 5 cabins and 2 houses are furnished with linens, dishes, pots and pans, cooking utensils, microwave, toaster, coffee pot, and charcoal grill. We have a covered boat dock with electric and swim deck located in Noe Creek across the main channel from the town of Bull Shoals. Noe Creek is known for bass and walleye. Call soon to reserve.
Toll Free: 800-582-2244
Phone Number: 870-439-2244
Web Site: http://www.buffaloriveroutfitters.com
Phone Number: 870-431-5222
Web Site: http://www.edgewater-resort.com
WALK TO OUR DOCK! No thumbnail views here. A fisherman's paradise and a hikersÆ and birdersÆ delight. Come enjoy Mother Nature at her best! Water sports abound in and on the unspoiled Bull Shoals Lake. Comfortably furnished cottages, docks, launching
Toll Free: 800-511-5253
Phone Number: 870-431-5575
Web Site: http://www.oakridgeresort.com
Great lodging for fishing, family fun or reunions. Four bedroom 2 ba. house with walkout basement...Six 2-4 bedroom kitchenette cabins with 3 to 6 beds (accommodates the fishermen)...some with master baths, kings, queens and doubles. All are fully furnished and have charcoal grills. Covered docks, boat rentals, pool, pavilion and play area - close to two marinas. Guided trips on the lake or rivers.
Phone Number: 870-431-5745
Web Site: http://www.bullshoals.com/fish-un-time/
CHECK OUR VACATION PACKAGES LISTED ON THIS WEBSITE. Relax on our new deck while you enjoy a view of the lake and the mountains which are particularly stunning during the fall months. Go boating, fishing, swimming, and skiing on beautiful Bull Shoals Lake
Phone Number: 870-446-5783
Web Site: http://www.myblueheavencabin.com
Enjoy rustic luxury in our 3 bedroom log cabin on the beautiful Little Buffalo River with spectacular 180-degree views, abundant wildlife, and nearly a mile of river frontage. We can comfortably accommodate up to 11 guests yet our cabin is cozy enough for a romantic getaway and our nearby guest house sleeps 4. Amenities include a fully equipped kitchen, satellite tv and dvd, a large deck with a gas grill, over 2 miles of hiking trails, and a hot tub under the stars! Enjoy privacy and seclusion.
Phone Number: 870-431-5587
Web Site: http://www.sistercreekresort.com
Sister Creek Resort overlooks beautiful Bull Shoals Lake. We've spacious & clean, fully furnished 2-BR cabins or 3-BR, 2-BR, or studio condo units. Million dollar lake views from most LR's. We have a swimming pool, rec room, laundry, BBQ pit, playground, covered ten stall boat dock w/electric & fish cleaning station. Live bait, lures, boat rentals. Pets welcome. We can accommodate large family reunions
CLICK ON SISTER CREEK RESORT TO VIEW OUR SPECIALS & MORE PHOTOS.

Phone Number: 870-425-8555
Web Site: http://www.whitebuffaloresort.com
The White Buffalo Resort is a unique place in the heart of the Ozarks. Our 3/4 mile of White River frontage at the mouth of the Buffalo River provides the most scenic landscapes imaginable and the best diversified fishing on the rivers. Riverside Cabins
Phone Number: 870-431-5564
Web Site: http://NorthShoreResort.com
Our resort is west of Mountain Home, on Bull Shoals Lake. It overlooks the Howard Creek area of the lake. Cottages range from single room to large 2 bedroom. All have kitchens, full bath, AC, Satellite TV, DVD Players, & Wi-Fi. Some cottages feature: King beds, Whirl-pool tubs, Fireplaces,Central Heat & AC. The pool is built into the hillside & overlooks the lakePhone Number: 870-491-5151
Web Site: http://www.mockingbirdbayresort.com
Located in the heart of the beautiful Ozark Mountains on Norfork Lake, only minutes from the rivers -- So catch stripers, crappie, walleye, and trout in the same day. Clean cabins, boat dock w/rentals, swimming pool, family-friendly paved resort. Open all year. Come and Play at the Bay!
Phone Number: 870-431-5576
Web Site: http://www.promiselandresort.com
Nine housekeeping cabins with a picture window lake view and 3 RV spots with lake view & full hook-ups. Pool, Recreation Room/Sunroom (Great for Large Families) with fireplace, Horseshoe Pit and More. Honeymoon/Anniversary cabin with Jacuzzi. DSL wireless
Phone Number: 870-436-5390
Web Site: http://www.bullshoalslakemarina.com
Rent the Myacht or one of 7 other themed houseboats along with wakeboards, skis, fishing boats, dive equipment and just about anything else to have fun with on Bull Shoals lake while getting your fuel, your scuba tanks filled, or just rent a boat slip atPhone Number: 417-785-4491
Web Site: http://www.bullshoals.com/pinders
We have 11 cabins that are clean and comfortable with everything you need.Included are A/C,color TV,coffee makers,microwave,ceiling fans,20x40 filtered pool,pavilion with game rm.Picnic tables,BBQ grills,linens,towels and kitchen ware.Ice,snacks,ice cream
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Phone Number: 417-785-4375
Web Site: http://www.bluewatersresort.net
Blue Waters Resort & RV Park 1-3 Bedroom, Fully Equipped Housekeeping Cabins With Lakeview, Large Covered Lighted Private Boat Dock W/ Electric – Boat Rentals,Swimming Pool,Grills,Covered Pavilion, Pets Allowed. Come And Vacation With Us If You Enjoy A Clean,Friendly Private Getaway Close To Excellent Fishing and Outstanding Natural Views. We love to work with groups and family reunions many of our quest return yearly. Check our webpage for availability or give us a call. Harold and Pam Malone
Phone Number: 870-492-5113
Web Site: http://www.hummingbird-hideaway.com
Hummingbird Hideaway offers all the beauty of the Ozarks with convenient shopping and restaurants nearby. We have 16 fully equipped units, a large pool, game room, play ground & free wireless internet service. Our 16 slip covered dock is lighted and has e
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Phone Number: 870-449-6235
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Trips on the Buffalo River in Canoes, Kayaks, Rafts, Tubes, or John-Boats / Guided Fishing and Camping Trips / Cabins with jacuzzi, Lodge, Motel, Camping / Hiking, Horseback Riding, Swimming, Fishing / Complete Campstore / Group Rates / Custom Vacation Pa
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Web Site: http://www.blueladyresort.com
Only resort in the Ozarks with a winery. Raimondo Winery is now open and serving Italian varietals from California grapes. Reserve your tasting or wine package now. (870) 467-5115 Stunning views of Lake Norfork - Resort sits on a bluff overlooking beautiful Lake Norfork and the Ozark Mountains. One, 2 and 3 bedroom cabins. Easy access to private, lighted boat dock with attached 25'x 40' swim deck and 15' x 20' fishing deck. Pet friendly. www.blueladyresort.com www.raimondowinery.com
Phone Number: 870-488-5367
Web Site: http://www.handcoveresort.com
A unique resort with a relaxed atmosphere. Somewhat secluded, yet still convenient. Featuring fully equipped studio, 1 bedroom, and 2 bedroom lake front cabins; 20 full hook-up RV sites; 12 stall boat dock; swim deck; fish deck; dock pavillion; launch ramps; wireless internet. We are a pet friendly resort. Offering value comfort & convenience at an affordable price. Your gateway to the Hand Cove/Jordan Recreation Area, Sand Island, and the Jordan area white sand beaches of Norfork Lake.
Phone Number: 870-439-2888
Web Site: http://www.gilbertstore.com
Rental cabins, historic store, canoe service, campground - all located on the Buffalo River in Gilbert Arkansas. Buffalo Camping and Canoeing has everything for your Buffalo River lodging, canoeing, and camping vacationToll Free: 877-350-6592
Phone Number: 870-449-2042
Web Site: http://www.buffaloriverfloatservice.com
Canoes, Kayaks, Shuttle Services, Tubes. Located South of Yellville across from Rush landing road.
Phone Number: 212-786-1332
Web Site: http://www.anedodi.com
Set on 12 secluded acres, with gorgeous lake views is Anedodi, a luxury log cabin rental with grand circular driveway through giant oaks and a back garden that slopes down to the lake. Perfect for family vacations, there is a private 40ft heated and cooled swimming pool with luxurious circular daybeds, frisbee golf course, horseshoe pit, 2 TVs with Blu-Ray and WII games.
Toll Free: 800-929-4048
Phone Number: 870-491-5161
Web Site: http://www.FishFiddleResort.com
Lake Norfork Resort . Swimming pool, recreation room, cottages fully equipped for housekeeping including satellite tv & microwaves. Large covered boat dock with lights and electric. Nice rental boats from 50hp bass to 120hp fish/ski deck boats. Volleyb