What to expect at Catherine's Landing

Catherine's Landing is a public boat launch on the White River in Izard County, Arkansas, roughly 12 miles south of Melbourne. The ramp sits in a rural stretch of the river where current moves steadily but the water stays manageable for small to medium boats. The landing itself is basic — a concrete ramp, a small gravel parking area, and minimal facilities — but it gives direct access to one of Arkansas's most productive smallmouth and walleye fisheries.

The White River in this section runs cool and clear most of the year, fed by releases from Greers Ferry Lake upstream. That cold water and steady flow create ideal conditions for walleye and smallmouth bass, especially in spring and fall. Catfish and crappie are also present, though they are secondary to the bass and walleye that draw most anglers here.

Access is free, and the ramp is open year-round. The landing has no attendant, no fuel dock, and no tackle shop on-site, so plan accordingly. The nearest town with supplies is Melbourne, about 15 minutes north by car.

Key Takeaways

  • Catherine's Landing is a free public ramp with a concrete launch, gravel parking, and no amenities — bring fuel, water, and supplies before you arrive.
  • The White River here holds smallmouth bass and walleye year-round, with spring and fall offering the most consistent action.
  • Current is steady but not dangerous for boats under 20 feet; water levels rise after heavy rain and during scheduled dam releases from Greers Ferry.
  • Parking is limited and fills quickly on weekends; arrive early or plan a weekday trip to avoid crowding.
  • No regulations restrict where you fish along this stretch, but check current Arkansas fishing seasons and daily limits before you launch.

Seasons and what fish are active

Spring (March through May) is the strongest season at Catherine's Landing. Walleye move shallow to spawn, and smallmouth bass become aggressive as water temperatures climb into the 50s and 60s. Early morning and late evening produce the most strikes, and live shiners or small crankbaits work well. Water levels often rise during spring due to dam releases and rainfall, which can make the current stronger but also pushes baitfish into predictable zones.

Summer (June through August) slows the bite considerably. Walleye retreat to deeper, cooler water, and smallmouth become less active during the heat of the day. Early morning trips before 9 a.m. and evening sessions after 6 p.m. are your best windows. Catfish bite steadily at night if you want to switch tactics.

Fall (September through November) rivals spring for consistent action. Cooling water temperatures trigger feeding in both walleye and smallmouth. September and October are particularly good, with water levels often stable and clarity excellent. Crappie also become more active in fall, especially around structure like fallen trees and rock outcrops.

Winter (December through February) is slower but not dead. Walleye continue to bite, particularly in the deeper holes downstream of the landing. Smallmouth fishing is tougher, but patient anglers working deep structure can find fish. Water levels are typically lower and more stable in winter, making navigation easier.

Access, parking, and launch conditions

Catherine's Landing has a single concrete ramp in good condition, suitable for boats up to about 20 feet. The ramp is wide enough for one boat at a time, and there is a small gravel parking area with space for roughly 8 to 10 vehicles. On weekends and holidays, especially in spring and fall, parking fills quickly. Arrive by 7 a.m. if you want a spot, or plan a weekday trip.

The landing has no restroom, no water, and no shade structure. There is a small picnic table near the parking area, but that is the extent of facilities. Bring everything you need — fuel, food, water, and a first aid kit — because the nearest services are in Melbourne.

Current at the landing is steady but not swift under normal conditions. After heavy rain or during scheduled releases from Greers Ferry Lake (which sits upstream), water levels rise and current increases noticeably. Check the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers website for Greers Ferry release schedules before you launch, especially if you are new to the river. High water can make the ramp slippery and the current more challenging for smaller boats.

The ramp has no gate and is open 24 hours, though launching or retrieving in darkness is not recommended without experience on this stretch. Cell service is spotty in the area, so do not rely on your phone for navigation or emergency contact.

Smallmouth bass fishing

Smallmouth bass are the primary target for most anglers at Catherine's Landing. The White River's rocky bottom and current-swept structure create ideal smallmouth habitat. Fish hold around boulders, fallen trees, and the outside bends of the river where current slows slightly.

Spring and fall are peak seasons. In spring, fish shallow water (3 to 8 feet) early and late in the day, then move to deeper runs as the sun climbs. Small crankbaits (2 to 3 inches), tube jigs, and live shiners all work. In fall, the same tactics apply, though fish often stay shallow longer into the day because water temperatures are cooler.

Summer requires patience and precision. Fish the deepest holes you can find, work early morning and evening, and use smaller baits and slower presentations. Tube jigs and soft plastics in natural colors (brown, green, black) outperform bright colors when the sun is high.

Winter smallmouth fishing is possible but requires targeting deep structure — holes 15 to 25 feet deep where fish congregate. Jigs and live baitfish work better than artificials in cold water.

Walleye fishing

Walleye are abundant in the White River at Catherine's Landing and are often more predictable than smallmouth, especially for anglers new to the river. Walleye prefer low-light conditions and current-swept areas where they can ambush baitfish.

Spring walleye fishing is excellent. Fish spawn in shallow, rocky areas (2 to 6 feet) in March and April. Live shiners, small jigs tipped with minnows, and crankbaits all produce. Fish early morning and late evening; midday bites are rare. As water warms into May, walleye move to deeper runs and current breaks.

Summer walleye retreat to deep holes and the base of current breaks. Night fishing becomes productive — many anglers fish after dark with live baitfish or small crankbaits. Jigging deep structure during the day can also work if you are patient and precise.

Fall walleye fishing mirrors spring: shallow, rocky areas produce well in September and October, and the bite remains strong throughout the day. Winter walleye fishing is possible in deep holes, but it requires patience and knowledge of where fish congregate.

Regulations and what you need to know

Arkansas fishing regulations apply at Catherine's Landing. You must have a valid Arkansas fishing license, which you can obtain online through the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission website or at any licensed vendor in the state. Licenses are available for one day, three days, or a full year.

Daily limits and size restrictions vary by species and change periodically. As of the most recent regulations, smallmouth bass have a 12-inch minimum length with a daily limit of five fish. Walleye have a 15-inch minimum with a daily limit of five fish. Catfish have no minimum size and a daily limit of 25 fish. Check the current Arkansas Game and Fish Commission regulations before you fish, as these limits can change.

The White River is open to public fishing along this stretch, and there are no special restrictions unique to Catherine's Landing. However, respect private property — do not trespass on land adjacent to the river, and do not anchor on private banks.

Catch-and-release is permitted and encouraged if you want to fish longer without hitting daily limits. Many anglers practice selective harvest, keeping a few fish for dinner and releasing the rest.

Nearby services and lodging

Melbourne, Arkansas, is the closest town to Catherine's Landing, about 15 minutes north by car. Melbourne has a small grocery store, a gas station, and a couple of local restaurants. For tackle and fishing supplies, you may need to drive to Mountain Home, which is about 45 minutes away and has larger outdoor retailers.

Lodging options near Catherine's Landing are limited. Melbourne has a few small motels, and there are vacation rentals scattered throughout Izard County. For more extensive lodging and dining, Mountain Home offers more choices and is still within reasonable driving distance. Camping is available at several U.S. Forest Service areas and private campgrounds in the region.

If you are planning a multi-day trip, consider basing yourself in Mountain Home or Batesville (about an hour away) where you will find more restaurants, hotels, and services. Both towns are popular with anglers fishing the White River system.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size boat can I launch at Catherine's Landing?

The concrete ramp is suitable for boats up to about 20 feet. Larger boats or those with deep drafts may have difficulty, especially during low-water periods. The ramp is single-lane, so only one boat launches or retrieves at a time. If you have a boat larger than 20 feet, call ahead or scout the landing in person before your trip.

Is there a fee to launch at Catherine's Landing?

No, Catherine's Landing is free to use. There is no attendant, no gate, and no daily fee. The landing is open 24 hours, though most anglers launch during daylight hours.

When is the best time to fish Catherine's Landing?

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are the most productive seasons for both smallmouth bass and walleye. Early morning and late evening are best during spring and fall. Summer fishing is slower but possible if you fish early morning or night. Winter is the slowest season but still holds fish in deep structure.

Do I need a guide to fish Catherine's Landing?

No, the river is open to public fishing and you do not need a guide. However, if you are unfamiliar with the White River or want to learn the best techniques for this stretch, hiring a local guide can accelerate your success. Several guide services operate on the White River and can be found through the Mountain Home Chamber of Commerce or online.

What should I bring that is not available at the landing?

Bring fuel, food, water, a first aid kit, and all tackle and equipment you need. There are no facilities at Catherine's Landing — no restroom, no water, no shade, and no tackle shop. The nearest services are in Melbourne, 15 minutes away. A cooler with ice is essential if you plan to keep fish.