A Guide to Premier Fishing in Arkansas (Best Tips & Tricks)

Our luxurious Hot Springs cabins are just a short drive away from some of the best fishing in Arkansas. If you would prefer to relax by the calming lake waters instead of dealing with the hustle and bustle of the city, then fishing is for you.


In our fishing guide, we will review some of the most commonly-asked questions about the pastime, and give you the best fishing tips only a local would know! Before you know it, you'll be totally "caught" up!

A close up of a crocodile with its mouth open.

Arkansas Fishing License

Once you've booked your vacation, it's time for you to get your fishing license! Thankfully the state of Arkansas has made the licensing process incredibly straightforward. But when do you need to buy a license? Are there moments you can fish without a license?


Online

You may buy a variety of fishing licenses online. Check out the government website for more information. While you can choose between a day pass, a 3-day pass, or more, you may also need to buy additional permits depending on the fish you plan to catch.


Residents will generally have steeper discounts on licenses!


Age

Anybody of the age of 16 or older must have a registered fishing license before they can cast their line.


Cost

Here are some of the prices for the most commonly-purchased licenses:

Combination Sportsman's License - $35.50

Nonresident Annual - $50

Nonresident 7-Day Fishing License - $50

Nonresident 3-Day Fishing License - $16

Nonresident Fishing Guide License - $150 (does not include fishing privileges)

Nonresident Trout Permit - $20 (if you plan to keep the trout you catch, this is a required fee in addition to your license.)

A small alligator is standing on a concrete surface.

Best Fishing Spots

We've talked about the different lakes near Hot Springs on our site before, but not necessarily when referring to fishing. These are popular places near Knotty and Nice Cabins where you can expect to fish.


Lake Hamilton

Drive Time from Knotty and Nice: 7 minutes


This is the closest lake to our cabins, and as such, it makes for the most convenient fishing location. There are plenty of boat rentals that can get you out on the water in a matter of minutes.


Lake Catherine State Park

Drive Time from Knotty and Nice: 21 minutes


If you don't mind an extra drive, then Lake Catherine State Park has some beautiful fishing spots. Fish off Falls Creek, or venture out into the Ouachita River.


DeGray Lake

Drive Time from Knotty and Nice: 22 minutes



Those who don't mind driving further away from Hot Springs should visit Lake DeGray instead. This massive lake will no doubt have a lot of fishing opportunities. It's perhaps the quietest spot for a getaway.


Andrew Hulsey State Fish Hatchery

Drive Time from Knotty and Nice: 11 minutes


Are you traveling with younger guests? Do you want to give them a fishing experience that will inspire them to fish more? One accessible way to do that is by visiting the local fishery, where you can catch fish in a controlled environment.


A woman is feeding a giraffe with her hand.

Boat Rentals in Hot Springs, AR

Most of the lakes mentioned above have marinas from which you can rent boats. Depending on the size of your vacation party, you may want to consider renting something as small as a fishing kayak if you need something affordable.

A group of alligators are swimming in a pond.

Arkansas Fishing Forecast

Here is a list of fish that you can catch here!

  • Smallmouth Bass
  • Crappie
  • Largemouth Bass
  • Catfish
  • Bluegill
  • Trout
  • Bowfin
  • Carp
  • Paddlefish
  • Pickerel


Fishing is the perfect way you can spend your time. Cabins, hunting, fishing...what could make for a better rustic vacation than this? Absolutely nothing! We look forward to seeing you at Knotty and Nice!

A woman in a red jacket is holding a piece of paper

Karen Ilizarbe

Owner

Hi! I'm the owner of Knotty & Nice Cabins in Hot Spring, Arkansas. My goal is to provide an adventurous and fun environment for my guests to share—one that feels like home for them and their families. I have been in the lodging industry for many years and love creating timeless memories for my guests.