Located in the northeastern suburbs of Little Rock, the city of Jacksonville, AR is close to several natural areas and excellent fishing spots where anglers can catch specimens from a broad range of different species. Whether you are looking for a day trip destination or a place where you can spend a weekend fishing with your friends or family, these spots are worth a visit and can be reached in less than two hours by car from the city center.
The 3 Best Fishing Spots Near Jacksonville, AR
1. Lake Conway
With a surface area of more than 6,700 acres, Lake Conway was created as a result of the construction of a nearby dam by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission in 1948. Nowadays, it is one of the most visited natural escapes in the region, attracting visitors from the cities of Conway, Little Rock, Jacksonville, and other nearby urban areas. The lake is open to the public and does not require visitors to pay any usage fee.
Lake Conway is located a little over 20 miles from downtown Jacksonville, a distance that can be covered in a little over half an hour by car, following route AR-89 W. Once here, you can head to one of the designated public docks and fishing areas accessible for both amateur and experienced anglers. Boat fishing is also allowed, but anglers must follow the boating lanes that have been put in place to avoid stumps and logs.
2. Lake Barnett
Located close to the small towns of Romance and Floyd, Lake Barnett is one of the most beautiful fishing areas near Jacksonville. It has an average depth of 30 feet and was constructed in 1984 by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Ever since, it has become a well-known weekend destination among anglers from all over the region. Some of the most popular species that can be found here include largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, bowfin, and white crappie.
Getting to Lake Barnett from downtown Jacksonville takes a little over half an hour by car, following routes US-167 N and Highway 31 N. While practicing boat fishing, visitors must be aware that there might be floating stumps and longs that might make it hard to navigate around. Although most visitors to the area come here to fish, the lake is also a great destination for anyone wanting to unwind and enjoy some quiet time in nature.
3. Lake Maumelle
Located a little under 35 minutes west of Jacksonville, Lake Maumelle is another great fishing spot that can be visited as part of a day trip from the city. Spanning almost 9,000 acres of territory, this lake features a 70-mile shoreline and several designated fishing areas where anglers can find species such as largemouth bass, spotted bass, black crappie, blue catfish, channel catfish, white crappie, bluegill, and hybrid sunfish. Other popular activities in the lake include canoeing and kayaking.
Before you go on your next fishing adventure around Jacksonville, visit us at Crain Ford of Jacksonville and check out the inventory of new and used cars we have available, as well as our convenient financing plans.
