Hey, fishermen! Get your bait ready, and head to the Natural State, as do we have quite the location for you.
Running throughout Northern Arkansas and Southern Missouri is the major tributary, the White River. Starting at the Boston Mountains, the White River twists and turns through the area, forming several lakes along the way thanks to the work of the Army Corps of Engineers (CoE), before finally emptying into the Mississippi River after over 700 miles of flow. The White River has many tributaries off from it, including, as part of the National Park system and one of its few free-to-visit sites, the Buffalo National River.
Many anglers will find their way to Cotter AR, colloquially known as "Trout Capital USA". People from all over the south and midwest flock to Big Spring Park in the heart of the town and set off in their motorboats, kayaks, and other water vessels to explore this wonderful area and try their hand and catch-and-release trout fishing. Even those wishing to stay on land have plenty of options at this park, such as seeing the tribute to the now defunct Missouri Pacific Railroad, including a caboose donated by the rail company. Even if it's a nature trail walk along the bluff overlooking the river, or on the island in the middle of the river, this place has something for everyone.
The White River is known for having several settled lakes along its path as a result of the flood control efforts of the Army CoE. Just east of Bentonville lies Beaver Lake, known for its limestone bluffs. Further down near the city of Branson, lies Lake Taneycomo. This lake is unique in that, although it is officially a lake, it has the look and feel of a river. While in downtown Branson, take a walk along the lakeside with the commercial plaza just to the other side. Further downstream lies Bull Shoals Lake, another fine boating location for recreationers. Although flooding is still of concern in the early parts of the year as you head further downstream, the river is allowed to flow naturally through the National Wildlife Refuge of southeastern Arkansas before emptying into the mighty Mississippi.
So the next time your internal compass tells you to go to the water, consider the White River. It may just be the place for you.
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