Fishing Charters in Arkansas
Browse fishing charters in Arkansas that can help you catch flathead 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 Flathead Catfish
Flathead Catfish can be caught year-round in Bella Vista. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Flathead Catfish
If you're after trophy flathead catfish, Bella Vista, Arkansas, offers some surprisingly good opportunities. The key is targeting the deeper holes and submerged timber in the area's lakes, particularly Lake Bella Vista and Lake Avalon. These lakes, while relatively small, hold some hefty flatheads that thrive on the abundant forage fish. Spring and early summer, just after the spawn, is prime time, as the big cats are actively feeding to regain condition. A live sunfish or large shiner fished on a Carolina rig is tough to beat. Bank access is available at several points around both lakes, but a small boat or kayak will significantly expand your options for finding those less-pressured honey holes. Be aware that the water can clear up significantly in the summer, so using a heavier line and setting your hook quickly is crucial when fishing in these conditions. Local tip: check water levels before you head out, as heavy rains can affect access to some areas.
How to Catch Flathead Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Flathead Catfish in Bella Vista.
Flathead 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 limit for flathead catfish in Bella Vista, Arkansas?
The daily bag limit for flathead catfish in Arkansas is 5 fish.
Is there a size limit on flathead catfish in Arkansas?
No, there is no size limit for flathead catfish in Arkansas. You can keep any size you catch.
What kind of license do I need to fish for flathead catfish near Bella Vista?
You'll need a valid Arkansas fishing license, either resident or non-resident, to fish for flathead catfish in the Bella Vista area.
What's the best bait for flathead catfish in Bella Vista?
Live bait like sunfish or goldfish is very effective for catching flathead catfish. They are ambush predators and prefer live prey.
More Flathead Catfish Fishing in Arkansas
Other Species to Fish in Bella Vista
Ready to Catch Flathead Catfish in Bella Vista?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.




