White Bass

White bass fishing near Hackett can be a blast, especially during their spring spawning runs. The Poteau River is again your best bet. These fish migrate upstream to spawn, congregating in large numbers below any obstructions or riffles. The key is to time your trip right – usually March and April are peak months, but it depends on water temperature. Look for areas with current breaks and rocky bottoms. Small jigs, spinners, and crankbaits are all effective. Bank access can be limited in some areas, so consider wading if conditions allow. A local tip: check with the bait shops in Fort Smith or Poteau, Oklahoma; they'll have the most up-to-date information on the run. The white bass here aren't huge, averaging around a pound or two, but their aggressive strikes and schooling behavior make for some exciting action.