North Fork of the White River

Matt Tucker is seen here nymphing a run on the North Fork of the White River.

Matt Tucker is seen here nymphing a run on the North Fork of the White River.

Description of Water

The North Fork of the White River is one of the most scenic rivers in the state, although recent commercialization of the river has been increasing the river is still beautiful. The most productive section of trout water is the roughly 12 mile stretch between Rainbow Spring and James Bridge. The river offers a chance at some incredible rainbow and brown trout fishing, including wild fish.

The river is also one of the slickest rivers to wade in the state, and studded felt sole shoes are highly recommended. Most of the water on the North Fork of the White River flows through private property and the best method to fish this stream is by floating it with a personal pontoon boat or a drift boat (yes, we use drift boats in Missouri too).

Popular Access Points

  1. Kelly Ford Access (Google Earth Download) (Garmin Waypoint Download)
  2. River of Life Farm Pay Access (Google Earth Download) (Garmin Waypoint Download)
  3. Patrick Bridge Access (Google Earth Download) (Garmin Waypoint Download)
  4. Blair Bridge Access (Google Earth Download) (Garmin Waypoint Download)

Maps of Stream

  1. Missouri Department of Conservation Map of the North Fork of the White River

USGS Stream Flow Data

  1. USGS Stream Gauge Link for the North Fork of the White River

Recommended Fly Patterns

  1. Hind’s Stone Fly Nymph (Size: #6 – #12)(Color: Black, Brown, and Gold)
  2. Crackleback (Size: 16)(Color: Sulphur or PMD)
  3. Elk Hair Caddis (Size: 18)(Color: Natural)
  4. Tungsten BH WoolyBugger (Size: 8)(Color: Black, Olive, or Brown)
  5. Tungsten Flashback BH Prince Nymph (Size: 16)(Color: Dark Colors)

Stream Specific Links

  1. Weather.com Weather Forecast for Area (Dora, MO)
  2. River of Life Farm (Canoe Rental, Lodging, & Guiding)
  3. Sunburst Ranch Canoe Rental & Camping

Stream Photos

2009-02-21pic009(resized) 2009-02-21pic010(resized) 2009-02-21pic067(resized) 2009-02-21pic108(resized) 2009-02-21pic057(resized)