Trip Info and Policies
Guided Fly Fishing Trips on the Little Red, White, and Norfork Rivers
Embark on a world-class fly fishing adventure with Fin & Feather Fly Fishing, where Arkansas’ premier tailwaters—the Little Red, White, and Norfork Rivers—come alive with trophy trout and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned angler, our expert guides tailor each trip to your skill level, ensuring a day of big fish, stunning scenery, and pure relaxation. From the Little Red’s trophy browns to the Norfork’s diverse trout populations, we’ll put you on the water with proven streamers like the Deep Fry and Grindylow. Choose a full-day or half-day trip, and let’s chase memories on these iconic rivers!
• Little Red River: Famous for its world-record brown trout, the Little Red offers a mix of deep pools, riffles, and runs, making it ideal for a variety of techniques. In deeper runs, we’ll target big browns and rainbows with streamers like the Deep Fry or Double Fry, focusing on aggressive retrieves. In shallower riffles, nymphing with mayflies, caddis, scuds, or midge patterns under an indicator can produce steady action, especially during low generation flows. When conditions are right—particularly in spring and fall—dry fly fishing shines with hatches of caddis, mayflies, and midges, tempting rising trout in the glassy flats. Expect a serene, tree-lined setting and a chance at trophy fish up to 20 inches or more, whether you’re swinging, drifting, or skating flies.
• White River: Below Bull Shoals Dam, the White River stretches over 100 miles of cold, clear water, teeming with multiple species of trout including browns, rainbows, brooks, Bonneville cutthroat, fine spotted cutthroat, and tiger trout! Its diverse conditions making it one of the most versatile trout fisheries in the world —from low, wadable flows to higher flows for drifting—support a range of techniques. During high flows, anglers can strip streamers to provoke aggressive strikes from big trout. In stable flows, nymphing in deep runs and tailouts can yield high numbers of trout. Dry fly opportunities arise with consistent caddis and mayfly hatches, especially in the evening, where you’ll cast to rising fish. Expect a dynamic day, adapting to generation schedules, with opportunities for both numbers and trophy fish in a wide, scenic river setting.
• Norfork River: A hidden gem just 5 miles long before joining the White, the Norfork is a fly fisher’s paradise with shallow riffles, moderate runs, and deep pools. It’s home to Bonneville cutthroat, huge browns, rainbows, and brook trout, offering a shot at a grand slam (all four species in one day). In deeper pools, we’ll swing or strip streamers to entice predatory fish. Nymphing is highly effective in the riffles and runs, using small midges, scuds, or soft hackles to match the river’s abundant micro-hatches. During spring and summer, dry fly fishing comes alive with sulphur, caddis, and terrestrial hatches, letting you target rising trout in the crystal-clear water. Expect variable flows, excellent conditions, and a peaceful setting, perfect for honing your skills across multiple techniques
Trip Details
• Full-Day Trip (8 Hours): Dive deep into the river of your choice with a full day of guided fishing. We provide all fly fishing gear—rods, reels, flies, and more—ensuring you’re ready to hook into trophy fish. Enjoy a riverside lunch prepared by your guide, giving you time to recharge while taking in the Ozark views. Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive experience.
• Half-Day Trip (4 Hours): Short on time? Our 4-hour trip packs the same trophy-hunting action into a compact window, ideal for a morning or afternoon escape. All gear is provided, and we’ll focus on the hottest spots to maximize your time on the water.
• What You’ll Experience: Each trip is tailored to your goals—whether it’s landing a monster brown on the Little Red, chasing cutthroat on the Norfork, or battling rainbows on the White. We’ll switch between techniques based on conditions, from stripping streamers and nymphing under indicators to casting dries during hatches. Expect stunning scenery, wildlife sightings, and a day of relaxation and excitement, all while fishing some of the best trout waters in the South.
Pricing
• Full-Day Trip (1–2 Anglers): $550
• Half-Day Trip (1–2 Anglers): $400
What to Bring
We provide all fly fishing gear, but here’s what you should bring to ensure a comfortable day on the river:
• Arkansas Fishing License and Trout Permit: Required for all anglers, available online at the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission website.
• Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Dress in layers for variable conditions—quick-dry pants, a moisture-wicking shirt, and a rain jacket are recommended. Check the forecast for the Little Red, White, or Norfork, as temperatures can range from the 50s at night to the 70s during the day.
• Waders and Boots: If you have them, bring your waders and boots for wade opportunities, especially for the Norfork’s wadable flows Felt-soled or rubber boots are best for slick rocks.
• Hat, Sunglasses, and Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun, especially on open stretches of the White River. Polarized sunglasses help spot fish in clear water.
• Personal Items: Bring a water bottle, snacks (full-day trips include lunch), and any medications you might need. A small backpack or dry bag is handy for keeping items secure.
• Camera or Phone: You’ll want to capture those trophy catches and scenic views—consider a waterproof case for river use.
Why Choose Fin & Feather Fly Fishing?
With years of experience guiding on these rivers, we know where the big fish hide and how to make your day unforgettable. Our trips are designed for all skill levels, from beginners learning to cast to pros chasing a grand slam on the Norfork. We’re passionate about conservation and practice catch-and-release to protect these fisheries for future generations. After your trip, gear up with our Fin & Feather Essentials tees, hats, or stickers to rep the river life! Book your trip today and let’s chase trophies on the Little Red, White, or Norfork Rivers!
Deposit Requirement & Cancellation Policy
To secure your Fin & Feather Fly Fishing guide trip on the Little Red, White, or Norfork Rivers, a $100 deposit per boat per day is required, payable online via credit card or Venmo. The balance is due at the end of your trip and can be paid by credit card, check, Venmo, or cash. Gratuity for your guide is customary but not required.
Cancellation Policy:
Deposits are non-refundable unless the guide cancels due to weather or mechanical issues, at the guide’s discretion. If you cancel more than 21 days before your trip, you may apply your deposit toward a rescheduled date, subject to availability. Cancellations within 21 days of the scheduled trip, or no-shows, will forfeit the deposit.
For client-requested cancellations: If canceled between 7 and 3 days before the trip, you are responsible for 50% of the trip price. Cancellations within 48 hours of the scheduled trip, or no-shows, will be charged 100% of the trip price. We monitor river conditions closely and prioritize safety—weather cancellations are determined by your guide to ensure the best experience. Book with confidence, knowing we’re committed to making your Fin & Feather trip unforgettable. Let’s hunt those trophies together!