Fishing Charters in Arkansas
Browse fishing charters in Arkansas that can help you catch channel catfish.


Gregs Guide Service
Bull Shoals, Arkansas
Greg's white river guide service is a trout fishing guide service in north central Arkansas


The Ozark Fly Guides
Heber Springs, Arkansas
ozarkflyguides, Heber springs


Keeping It Crappie
Dardanelle, Arkansas
Keeping It Crappie Guide Service in Arkansas offers crappie fishing charters on Lake Dardanelle, providing gear, instruction, and a 21’ Skeeter bass boat.


Reel Good Fishing
Alexander, Arkansas
REEL GOOD FISHING|GUIDED FISHING TRIPS ARKANSAS|SHOP OUR FLY SHOP|ARKANSAS FLY FISHING GUIDES


Little Red Trout
Heber Springs, Arkansas
Guided Trout Fishing on The Little Red River Heber Springs Arkansas. Special discounted rates.


Fish Finder Service
Bee Branch, Arkansas


Str Outdoors
Mountain Home, Arkansas
Sean Reynolds for Striper & hybrids fishing on Lake Norfork and Eastern Tennessee


Hot Springs Fishing Charter
Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas


Swinging Bridge Flies
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Swinging Bridge Flies is a fly fishing guide service on the Beaver Tailwater in Northwest Arkansas, offering curated trips and custom tied flies. Come float with us today or check out our store for the flies you need.


Wilkinson Outdoor Adventures
Gassville, Arkansas
Wilkinson Outdoor Adventures fishes top locations on the White River


Beaus Guide Service
We are the best trout fishing guide service on the Little Red River. We provide spin cast and fly fishing guides to individuals, families and corporate outings looking to catch trout in Arkansas.


Arkansas On The Fly
Fly Fishing Guided Trips
Best Time to Catch Channel Catfish
Channel Catfish can be caught year-round in Elkins. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Channel Catfish
Elkins, Arkansas, offers some surprisingly good channel catfish angling, especially in the slower-moving sections of the Illinois River and its tributaries. While not known as a trophy catfish destination, the area provides consistent action for smaller to medium-sized cats, perfect for a family outing or a relaxing evening on the bank. Summer is the best time to target channel catfish here, as the water warms up and they become more active. Bait fishing is the name of the game; try using nightcrawlers, chicken liver, or prepared catfish baits near submerged logs and undercut banks. A good spot to try is along the banks near the confluence of smaller creeks with the Illinois River. Be aware that water levels can fluctuate, especially after rainfall, so check the river forecast before you head out. Don't overlook fishing at night, as the catfish tend to be more active under the cover of darkness.
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Elkins.
Channel Catfish Fishing Regulations in Arkansas
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Resident or Non-resident Fishing License
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Arkansas state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Arkansas
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait for Channel Catfish in Elkins, Arkansas?
Popular choices include stinkbaits, nightcrawlers, and chicken liver. Fish on the bottom near structure or in areas with current.
What is the daily limit for Channel Catfish in Arkansas?
The daily bag limit for Channel Catfish is 5 per day. Remember to check for any specific regulations on particular bodies of water.
Are there any size restrictions for Channel Catfish in Arkansas?
No, there is no minimum size limit for Channel Catfish in Arkansas. You can keep any size you catch, up to the daily limit.
Is a fishing license required to catch Channel Catfish in Arkansas?
Yes, you need a valid Arkansas fishing license to fish for Channel Catfish. Either a resident or non-resident license will work.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in Arkansas
Other Species to Fish in Elkins
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Elkins?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.




