From the central portion of the state, the Arkansas River flows southward through the rich farmlands of the Arkansas delta to its confluence with the Mississippi River. Twenty-three recreation areas with campgrounds ranging from fully equipped to day-use-only can be found along this stretch. The river is also popular for other outdoor recreation such as boating and water skiing. The Arkansas River National Drag Boat Races take place annually at Pine Bluff on Labor Day weekend.
Fishing: Locks and dams along the river allow access to some of the best fishing in the country. Pools formed by these are stocked by the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission with sport fish such as bass, crappie, catfish and bream, making the river a popular location for major fishing tournaments such as BASSMASTERS and the Arkansas Ford Dealers Big Bass Classic. Due to the record-breaking total catch (which still stands) when BASSMASTERS was held in Pine Bluff, the city now bills itself as the "Bass Capital of the World."
