Largemouth Bass

If you're heading to Chester, Arkansas, with largemouth bass on your mind, you're in for some classic Ozark fishing. The nearby lakes and reservoirs, like Lake Fort Smith, offer prime habitat. What sets this area apart is the blend of clear, rocky waters and submerged timber, creating ideal ambush points for largemouth. Spring and fall are the peak seasons. During the spring spawn, target shallow coves and weed beds with spinnerbaits and soft plastics. In the fall, as the water cools, focus on points and drop-offs with crankbaits and jigs. For bank access, try the state park areas around Lake Fort Smith; many have trails leading to fishable spots. A local tip: Pay attention to water clarity. Largemouth in these clearer waters can be line-shy, so consider using fluorocarbon leaders. The largemouth here aren't giants, but the numbers can be impressive, and the scenery is hard to beat.