Little Red River Guide Association
On the River — For the River
Current reports, guide observations, and practical resources for everyone who fishes, manages, or cares about the Little Red River.
RIVER OVERVIEW
About the Little Red River
The Little Red River is a 32-mile managed trout fishery below Greers Ferry Dam in north-central Arkansas. Cold releases from the dam support stocked rainbow trout and a self-sustaining brown trout population as the river flows through Heber Springs, Pangburn, and toward Highway 305. Conditions can change quickly with generation, weather, and distance from the dam, so anglers should check current releases, gauges, water temperatures, access information, and fishing regulations before going.
PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE
The Little Red River
Where It Was
A world-known trout river with remarkable fish, strong angler use, and communities built around it.
Where It Is
Conditions now vary greatly between the upper, middle, and lower river. Many believe it is merely a shadow of what it once was.
Where It Is Going
Better information and informed decisions can help protect and improve its future.
THE CHALLENGES
A River Shaped by Connected Decisions
No single issue determines the health of the Little Red River. Several challenges work together.
Water Flow
Release timing and volume affect habitat, access, and trout movement.
Water Temperature
Hot weather and low flows can place the lower river under stress.
Trout Stocking
Numbers, sizes, timing, and distribution shape fishing quality.
Development
Growth can affect runoff, erosion, water quality, and river character.
Vegetation
Changes can influence habitat, navigation, and the fishing experience.
Management Decisions
Decisions made upstream can change conditions many miles below the dam.
WHAT LRRGA DOES
Guides Working Together for the Little Red
LRRGA collects guide observations, explains what the information means, and helps people safely and responsibly enjoy the river.
Report
Collect and publish current, river-wide observations after guide trips.
Educate
Turn field observations, research, and public data into clear explanations.
Promote
Help people safely and responsibly enjoy the Little Red River.