I have a lot of experience fishing smallmouth in the Ouachitas and I will tell you that the streams in AR are better fishing than the ones in OK. The Cossatot is the best but there are places on the Little Missouri that are good.
The first thing you need to do is look at the USGS river guages on the river that intend to fish(found on the internet). Tropical storm Bill probably has the river running high which will kill the fishing.
As some suggested, inline spinner baits always work well. Mepps and Panther Martins are the highest quality. The Rooster tail is a cheapy that often malfunctions(won't spin). Floating/diving crank baits 2-3 inches long work very well and can be twitched as well. But they have to be shallow running because you will be fishing shallow water.
It is best to wade fish them as boats/canoes spook the fish. If needed, use a boat as transportation down river, but fish on foot. Wear light weight pants made of polyester that don't hold a lot of water and wear good booths made of synthetics. Thick soles will protect your feet. Be careful because the bottom of those rivers are slicker than owl shit; don't walk on flat rocks. Also be careful because the cottonmouths are aggressive.
The best seasons are Feb 15- April 1 and Oct 15-Dec 15. Its gets damn hot down on those rocky rivers in May, June, july, Aug, and Sept.
Catch and release.
Thanks for your insight. Having grown up in Arkansas I know all about the cottonmouth. During mating season, which is April and May if I remember correctly, they will attack ANYTHING in their territory. And when they bite, they don’t let lose. Scary stuff.
What is your opinion on wearing waders?
I’ll be on the river the 29th so hopefully Bill will have done it’s damage and be done with. From what people are telling me the fish are down deep in the cooler water.
Maybe I can catch a few. Personally, crappie and bass are the best tasting fresh water fish.