Norfork Tailwater

The Norfork Tailwater

Below the Norfork Dam in north central Arkansas lies the Norfork Tailwater (named for the dam itself). Near Salesville, Arkansas, the Norfork Tailwater is about 4.8 miles long and stretches from the dam below Lake Norfork to the White River. The Norfork Tailwater is home to brown, rainbow, cutthroat, and brook trout, as well as other fish. A trout hatchery (the Norfork National Fish Hatchery) near Quarry Park keeps the tailwater stocked with trout, while the dam’s cold water output provides suitable habitat for these cool-water game fish.

2008 Flood

On April 10, 2008, the Army Corp of Engineers opened the dam floodgates. The mass of water changed the river's depth in some places, and boaters and waders should use caution.

Access

The tailwater can be accessed in a few locations. Access is free below the dam, off SR 177. There are also a few private boat ramps and other properties that can be used to access the river with permission.