Although the temperature is dropping, Gaston’s White River Resort continues to host exciting guided fishing trips on the Arkansas White River. No matter the season, these fishing trips guarantee plenty of fun and great catches.
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Tips for Cold Weather Fishing at Gaston’s White River Resort
Fishing guide Mike Howell shares expert advice for fishing on the White River in the fall and winter months.
By Jordan Blomquist
Oct 2023
Mike Howell has been a fishing guide for nearly eight years, starting out on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington, where he guided for salmon and steelhead. Four years ago, he made the move back from the Pacific Northwest to become a guide at Gaston’s White River Resort.
Trout fishing patterns change in the fall and winter months—more precautions are needed, and the fish behave differently in cold water. Howell shares advice on how to adjust your approach during colder seasons and what to expect on the water.
Photo courtesy of Gaston's White River ResortGaston’s White River Resort offers fishing guides year-round.
Top Tips for Successful Fishing on the White River
The best time to fish is typically from morning into the afternoon, but on the White River, it really depends on the water conditions. It’s important to watch for consistent water flow.
Fall marks the spawning season, making it the best time to bait fish with eggs. “Fish really hate other fish competing for the gene pool, so the egg bite gets really good in the fall,” Howell says. As winter approaches, fish begin to eat more. During this time, it’s best to use bait that fish are eager to eat—such as baitfish and egg.
Using flies or lures that move can also be key to hooking a fish, particularly in the winter months when fish become more reactionary and are on the lookout for an easy meal. “Fish are typically opportunistic creatures,” Howell says. If the bait looks like an easy grab to the fish, you’re more likely to hook them.
Essential Safety Equipment for Cold Weather Fishing
When it comes to safety equipment, there are two main considerations: what you need to stay warm and what you need to stay afloat.
For the latter, Howell says a throwable personal flotation device (PFD) is essential, not just for your crew but for assisting others if someone falls overboard. “In the winter months, it’s really vital to make sure you get somebody out of the water as fast as you can before hypothermia sets in,” he says.
Being prepared is the best strategy for staying safe. For staying warm, Howell always carries a blanket, extra jackets and Hot Hands. A life vest is recommended in cold-weather fishing because the combination of freezing temperatures and rough waters can make things especially dangerous. “With the outdoors, it’s not a matter of if, it’s when,” Howell says. Having these essentials available can make all the difference in preventing hypothermia.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Winter Fishing
It’s essential to know how to read the water properly during winter fishing. During the colder months, the water tends to be higher and faster-moving, and many people make the mistake of fishing in those fast currents. However, in winter, it’s important to focus on the soft zones—areas where the water slows down. “Where fish can relax and ambush any sort of bait or prey that’s coming across those soft zones,” Howell says.
More from Gaston’s White River Resort
Gaston’s White River Resort offers both half-day and full-day fishing trips, with pricing that varies based on the size of your group. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, you’re guaranteed to reel in a few trout, thanks to the expertise of one of their 11 skilled guides, including Howell. For details on packages and pricing, head to their website.
Beyond its fishing trips, Gaston’s has a restaurant with stunning river views. On Sundays, guests can take advantage of the resort’s private airstrip to fly in for brunch—which is more popular than you may think! With cozy cottages and villas perfect for those chilly months, Gaston’s is the ideal spot for a getaway.
