PART ONE
FLY FISHING
Two world-class tailwaters within an hour of the cave: the White River below Bull Shoals, and the Norfork. Year-round trout, with brown trout over twenty pounds caught most seasons. Local guides know which holes are producing on which generation schedule, and which flies have been working that week
The Buffalo runs smallmouth bass and is a fun change of pace — wadeable, scenic, and less technical than the White. A half-day on the Buffalo is the kind of trip that turns a non-fisherman in your group into one.
CHECK OUT THE GUIDES BELOW.
PART TWO
HORSEBACK RIDING
Trail rides through hardwood forest at the pace of a horse. Local stables run guided rides from one hour to a full afternoon, paired to your group's experience level
Most rides leave from the Ponca corridor, a 25-minute drive from the cave. Beginners are welcome — the stables here are practiced with first-time riders. More experienced riders should ask about the half-day backcountry routes that climb up onto the bluffs.
CHECK OUT THE GUIDES BELOW.
PRACTICAL DETAILS
Outfitters and stables. We're happy to introduce you to any outfitter on this list when you book.
FLY FISHING GUIDES
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Steve Dally's Outfitters — Cotter
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Full-service shop and guide service on the White. Wade trips, drift boats, and instruction.
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White River Fly Fishing Outfitter
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Multi-day floats with overnight camping setups for serious anglers.
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WHEN TO COME
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Peak hatches April through June and September through November. Winter is quiet, technical, and rewards experienced anglers — ask your guide about midge fishing if you come in January.
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HORSEBACK STABLES
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Horseshoe Canyon Ranch — Jasper
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Working ranch with guided rides through canyon country. Wagon and longer rides available.
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Buffalo Riding Stables — Ponca
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Shortest drive from the cave. Hour rides, half-day rides, family-friendly.
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WHEN T O COME
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Avoid the hottest summer afternoons. Mornings are best in July and August; late September through October is the most photogenic window.
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