The 3 D complex turbulent flow fields in a plunge pool with arciform bottom are simulated by using the k ε model in body fitted coordinates. The calculated results reveal the flow characteristics in the arciform plunge pool under the different flood discharge conditions, which can not be easily obtained in the physical model test because the measurement of the complex velocity is very difficult. The calculated flow fields are helpful to understand in depth the hydraulic characteristics of plunge pool. The calculated and the measured pressure distributions on the pool bottom are compared and in good agreement. The 3 D complex turbulent flow fields in a plunge pool with arciform bottom are simulated by using the  k ε model in body fitted coordinates. The calculated results reveal the flow characteristics in the arciform plunge pool under the different flood discharge conditions, which can not be easily obtained in the physical model test because the measurement of the complex velocity is very difficult. The calculated flow fields are helpful to understand in depth the hydraulic characteristics of plunge pool. The calculated and the measured pressure distributions on the pool bottom are compared and in good agreement.