There are many local folklore legends in Arkansas about things that are just unexplainable. For example, here in Southwest Arkansas, we've all heard about the Fouke Monster but have you heard about the White River Monster in Northeast Arkansas near the town of Newport?

Sightings of some underwater mysterious creature known as the White River Monster or "Whitey" its nickname has been a story that's been around since the early 1900s. Over the years, sightings have been reported sporadic by local fishermen and local folks in the area. in the early 70s, sightings of the White River Monster really started ramping up when someone spotted what looked to be a huge greyish-colored type fish with spiny-looking thorns on its back and a horn protruding from its head.

 

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It was also reported that the White River Monster left 14- inch long tracks through river vegetation areas where it may have swum through.

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So, what is this massive creature?  Cryptozoologists have suggested that is nothing more than an elephant seal that made its way out of the ocean into the murky Mississippi River then wound up into the White River decades ago

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Others say that it's some type of forgotten prehistoric fish or snake-like creature that is still alive today.

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But beware that it's illegal to hunt down the White River Monster due to the fact that in 1973, legislation was passed to help protect whatever this species is.

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By the way, on the second season of Animal Planet's Lost Tapes, the White River Monster was featured in the show.

So, all I can say is if you plan a fishing or float trip down the White River don't be surprised if you see our Loch Ness Monster the White River Monster.

What do you think? Do you believe there is a White River Monster lurking in the waters in Northeastern Arkansas or is it just some old legendary Fishermen's tale?

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