OUR HISTORY
Stephen Balough and David Burgher III grew up loving the outdoors, hunting and fishing in the same neighborhood in Texas, but didn’t meet each other until they went to college at the University of Arkansas and joined the same fraternity almost 20 years ago. Their friendship grew as did their love of the outdoors, especially their love for fly fishing. After graduation (David with an architectural degree and Stephen with a degree in Hotel/Restaurant Management) they chased opportunities to fish all over the world, guiding in Alaska, South America, Colorado and other Mountain states, the north and northeast US and salt water destinations in the Gulf, Caribbean and Mexico.
They kept in touch over all this time and even worked at some of the same lodges and places but it wasn’t until 2020 when they were in Vail and Crested Butte that the two decided to join forces and return to their roots and make Arkansas home again, combining their experiences and working some of the greatest fisheries in the world. In 2021 they embarked in buying the old Sportsman’s Resort on the White River and completely remodeled and re-cast it into The White River Club, one of the great fishing lodges in the state.
OUR FISHING PHILOSOPHY
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Focused primarily on fly fishing, the club is an ideal retreat for fishermen, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking to host private events – such as corporate or church retreats, family reunions, bachelor parties or weddings. Whether you’re an avid angler, or just looking for a scenic getaway – our lodge has a little something for everyone.
ONE-OF-A-KIND FISHING
We are located just 8 miles below Bull Shoals Dam, so guests have immediate access to the best fishing on the entire White River. Whether you’re getting picked up by one of our guides, using our private boat ramp, or parking at our private boat dock – big browns and colorful rainbows are just a cast away.
CONSERVATION-MINDED
Our legendary guides will take you through a journey on the White River while teaching proper handling techniques, the impact of gentle-release strategies on fish survival, and much more.
