Bull Shoals Lake Tailwater
Background
Bull Shoals Dam was constructed on the White River in 1952 for the purposes of flood control and hydroelectric power generation. As with other dams in the Southeastern United States, initial operations from this project created coldwater habitat that was unsuitable for native fish species. Experimental stockings of rainbow trout and brown trout demonstrated exceptional survival and growth. Regular stockings of these two species began in 1955. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission currently manages trout fisheries in the White River from Bull Shoals Dam to the Highway 58 Bridge at Guion. Four species of trout are currently stocked into the Bull Shoals Tailwater. These are rainbow trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout, and brook trout.
Water Level Information
Corps of Engineers Website
Current Generation Conditions
(870) 431-5311
Management Plan
In 2007, the AGFC Trout Management Program began the process of developing a comprehensive management plan for both the Bull Shoals and Norfork Tailwaters. The purpose of this plan is to establish specific goals and objectives, which will guide the future management of the trout fisheries in these waters. Central to the plan development process was an intensive public involvement effort used to help insure that the desires and expectations of the angling public were embodied in plan goals. The management strategies outlined in this plan will be implemented over the next 5 years. In 2013, this plan will be revisited to determine if management objectives were met and to insure that plan goals are still in line with public values and interests.
Bull Shoals and Norfork Tailwaters Management Plan
Reports
Creel Survey Report