But no one can argue that the challenge of wading this river of washed gravel, rough boulders, and slick limestone with fly rod in hand is short on thrills. At its famous trout lairs of Dew Eddy Shoals, Partee Shoals, White Hole, Wildcat Shoals, Rim Shoals, Buffalo Shoals, and many more, nymph fishermen drift patterns of Sowbugs, Arkansas Scuds, Hare's Ears, and the bead-headed Prince. Some longrodders choose to swim dark streamers, such as the Wooly Bugger, Whitlock's Sculpin, and the .56er through eddy waters and the tails of long pools. No matter the chosen fly that connects the trout's energy with the angler's skill, the delicate battle between fish and fisherman embodies the magic of the season. The White River tailrace below Bull Shoals Lake Dam has no shortage, especially during the offseason, of quality lodging facilities, including motor inns, fullscale sportsmen's resorts, and quiet, bohemian-styled getaways and cottages.
Promotional values are in place at many overnight lodges, as well.
Situated only two miles downstream of the river's famed brown trout spawning grounds, Gaston's offers one, two, and four-bedroom cottages. Guided fishing services, boat rentals, and expert fishing information are available, and the resort features a 3,200 foot grass landing strip for fly ins. This article copyright 1996 by Thicket Publishing, is for personal use only, all rights reserved. Best wishes and good fishing Jim Gaston.