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Lake Trout

Lake Trout

Lake Trout are not native to Arkansas but have been introduced as a non-indigenous species. These large freshwater char can live up to 70 years and grow to impressive sizes. They are apex predators with varied diets depending on their life stage.

Scientific Name: Salvelinus namaycush

Physical Characteristics:
  • Large freshwater char that can grow to impressive sizes - the maximum recorded weight is 102 pounds from Alaska, though Arkansas specimens are considerably smaller.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Inhabit deep, cold waters greater than 50 feet, often found at depths exceeding 200 feet.
  • In Arkansas, they would be found in the state's deeper reservoirs and cold tailwater sections.

Key Locations

  • Beaver Reservoir, Bull Shoals Lake, Lake Conway-Point Remove, and Little Red River.
  • Focus on Arkansas's major reservoirs like Beaver Lake, Bull Shoals Lake, and deeper sections of tailwaters.

Specific Spots

  • Target deep channels, submerged structure, and steep drop-offs.
  • The key is getting large, flashy lures down to their preferred depths in Arkansas's coldest, deepest waters.

Lake Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Lake Trout in Arkansas?

Large spoons (silver and gold), heavy jigs with tube bodies or bucktail, and minnow-imitating plugs like Rapalas.

What flies work for Lake Trout in Arkansas?

Woolly Buggers, Clouser Minnows (5-6 inches), Double Deceivers (articulated to 9 inches), and large streamers that imitate baitfish.

When is the best time to fish for Lake Trout in Arkansas?

Winter and early spring optimal seasons when water temperatures drop below 64°F. Spawning period (October-November) should be avoided for fishing to protect reproduction.

How do you catch Lake Trout in Arkansas?

Jigging vertically in deep water, trolling large lures at depth, and casting streamers near structure. When jigging, drop to the bottom, give a few jigs, then retrieve quickly - Lake Trout may strike anywhere from bottom to surface.

What do Lake Trout eat?

Young Lake Trout eat plankton, insects, and small invertebrates, while adults prefer fish and become highly piscivorous. They feed on a variety of organisms from midges and chironomids to scuds (freshwater shrimp), damselflies, dragonflies, crayfish, and forage fish.

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