Fly Fishing Guide — Arkansas
Cody Lazenby is a White River tailwater specialist who has guided fly fishers on the cold waters below Bull Shoals and Norfork dams for fourteen years, developing an encyclopedic knowledge of the generation schedules, insect hatches, and trophy trout holding areas that define fishing on one of the most productive tailwater systems in America. The White River's trout population is staggering by any measure, with electrofishing surveys consistently recording densities exceeding five thousand fish per mile on the best reaches. Cody navigates this abundance with precision, targeting specific fish and specific techniques rather than simply covering water and hoping for the best.
Cody's approach is built around understanding the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers generation schedule that controls water flow from the dam. Rising water pushes trout into predictable feeding positions, and falling water exposes runs and riffles that concentrate fish in ways that the uninitiated would never recognize. His ability to read the daily generation schedule and position his drift boat in exactly the right water at exactly the right time consistently produces outstanding days for his clients, even when other boats are struggling.
Beyond the main White River, Cody guides on the Norfork River and the Little Red River, two additional tailwater fisheries within an hour of his home base in Cotter. The Norfork is particularly noted for its trophy brown trout, and the Little Red holds the world-record brown trout waters that have made Arkansas a surprisingly prominent destination on the national fly fishing map.
“Perfect Getaway on the White River – Clean Cabins, Great Fishing & Amazing Staff! My partner and I spent an unforgettable weekend at the White River Trout Club. While he had stayed several times before, this was my first visit—and it blew me away. The location is right on the river, making fishing super convenient and scenic. The cabins are clean, cozy, and fully renovated, equipped with everything you need to relax and feel at home. The entire property is now under new management, and it really shows—from the stylish upgrades to the thoughtful details in every cabin. What really made the trip outstanding was William, who works there. We accidentally locked ourselves out at 12:30 a.m., and he showed up immediately, smiling and helpful. When we ran out of gas on the river, William rescued us with fuel and even towed us in. He brought us a grill and charcoal when we decided to cook out—just always polite, upbeat, and ready to help. He’s truly an asset to this place. Between the fishing, the peaceful surroundings, and the exceptional hospitality, I couldn’t have asked for a better first-time experience on the White River. We’re already planning our next visit!”
“When went over with two other members of our Middle TN Fly Fisher's group. We had a fabulous 4 days at the WRTC. The accommodations are either motel style rooms (which are actually suites with a kitchen separate from the bedroom) or a …”
“I had a great time here. I stayed for 2 nights in a studio cabin and went on a 6hr guided fly fishing trip. Everything is updated, clean and well maintained. The clubhouse/pavilion area is a great place to relax and hang out with friends. They have a pool, fly shop, dock and also a bar that is open in the afternoons. My guide picked me up right from the dock on the property and went right to fishing! After seeing the other fishing lodge properties from the river while fishing, I would definitely stay here again over any of the others. I highly recommend this place if you are considering a fishing trip on the White River!”
Contact Cody Lazenby — White River Fly Fishing directly to book your guided trip.