Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to search for diamonds and explore the natural beauty of the region. However, the park’s proximity to the Little Missouri River also makes it a prime spot for fishing enthusiasts. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the details of fishing near Crater of Diamonds State Park, providing you with all the information you need to plan your next angling adventure.
The Little Missouri River: A Trout Fishing Hotspot
The Little Missouri River, located just a short drive from Crater of Diamonds State Park, is a renowned trout fishing destination. The river is stocked with trout by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission from November through May, making it a prime spot for anglers seeking a thrilling catch.
One of the key factors to consider when fishing the Little Missouri River is the water discharge from the Narrows’ hydroelectric dam. The river can rise several feet in a matter of minutes when water is generated for electricity, so it’s crucial to be aware of the generation schedule and watch the water level closely. Before leaving home, be sure to check the generation schedule at swepco.com/community/education/recreation.
When it comes to equipment, a lightweight stocking foot chest wader is recommended for fishing the Little Missouri River. Many anglers use 1/124 oz. olive green micro-jigs, but spinning gear with small lures or flies can also be effective. It’s important to be mindful of the trout creel limit, which is five rainbows per day, and remember that all brown trout must be released immediately.
Fishing the Little Missouri River: Techniques and Tactics
Anglers fishing the Little Missouri River near Crater of Diamonds State Park can employ a variety of techniques and tactics to increase their chances of success. Some popular methods include:
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Fly Fishing: The Little Missouri River’s clear waters and diverse insect population make it an excellent destination for fly fishing enthusiasts. Anglers can target trout with a variety of dry flies, nymphs, and streamers.
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Spin Fishing: For those who prefer spin fishing, the Little Missouri River offers ample opportunities to catch trout using small lures, such as inline spinners, crankbaits, and jigs.
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Bait Fishing: Live bait, such as worms, minnows, or PowerBait, can also be effective when fishing the Little Missouri River. This method is particularly popular among anglers targeting catfish and bream.
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Targeting Specific Structures: Anglers should pay close attention to the river’s structure, such as undercut banks, submerged logs, and deep pools, as these areas often hold the most fish.
Fishing Opportunities Beyond Trout
While the Little Missouri River is renowned for its trout fishing, the waters near Crater of Diamonds State Park also offer opportunities to catch a variety of other species, including:
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Largemouth Bass: The park’s lakes and ponds are home to healthy populations of largemouth bass, which can be targeted using a variety of lures and techniques.
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Catfish: The Little Missouri River and the park’s lakes are known to hold sizeable catfish, making them a popular target for anglers.
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Bream: These panfish, including bluegill and redear sunfish, can be found in the park’s waters and provide excellent table fare.
Fishing Regulations and Licenses
When fishing near Crater of Diamonds State Park, it’s important to be aware of the applicable regulations and licensing requirements. Here are the key points to consider:
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Fishing License: No fishing license is required within the boundaries of Crater of Diamonds State Park. However, if you plan to fish outside the park, you’ll need to obtain an Arkansas fishing license.
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Trout Regulations: As mentioned earlier, the trout creel limit on the Little Missouri River is five rainbows per day, and all brown trout must be released immediately.
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Other Regulations: Anglers should familiarize themselves with the general fishing regulations in Arkansas, which can be found on the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission website.
Exploring Crater of Diamonds State Park
While fishing is a major draw for many visitors to Crater of Diamonds State Park, the park offers a wealth of other activities and attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the popular non-fishing activities include:
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Diamond Digging: The park’s main attraction is the opportunity to search for diamonds in the park’s 37.5-acre diamond search area.
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Hiking: The park features several hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to more challenging routes.
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Camping: The park offers a variety of camping options, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins.
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Water Sports: The park’s Diamond Springs Water Park is open during the summer months, offering a refreshing way to beat the heat.
Conclusion
Fishing near Crater of Diamonds State Park is a unique and rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re targeting trout in the Little Missouri River or seeking out other species in the park’s lakes and ponds, the area offers a diverse array of fishing opportunities. By understanding the local regulations, techniques, and amenities, you can plan the perfect fishing adventure at this one-of-a-kind destination.