Arkansas Wildlife Weekly Fishing Report

April 9, 2026

Jim Harris

Managing Editor Arkansas Wildlife Magazine

Occasionally, we’ll receive a photo or a question from an angler wondering what species they may have caught. In the Spring River, as guide Mark Crawford says, “Mr. Redhorse” is a common catch in that body of water. So, in Mark’s hands above is the redhorse. Head up toward the Spring River, where trout are being stocked again and walleye and smallmouth bass are plentiful and biting. Like many other bodies of water in Arkansas these days, though, they could use more rainfall than what passed through the state last weekend. The current at the Spring is below average right now. Read more of Mark Crawford’s full report below under “Northeast Arkansas.”

Reports are updated weekly, although some reports may be published for two weeks if updates are not received promptly or if reporters say conditions haven’t changed. Contact the reporter listed for the lake or stream you plan to fish for current news.

Arkansas River and White River levels are available at: https://www.weather.gov/lzk/wxcntl4.htm

For real-time information on stream flow in Arkansas from the U.S. Geological Survey, visit: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/ar/nwis/rt

For water-quality statistics (including temperature) in many Arkansas streams and lakes, visit: https://waterdata.usgs.gov/state/Arkansas/

Download the Fish Brain app and follow AGFC at: https://join.fishbrain.com/agfc-page

Quick links to regions:

• Central Arkansas
• North Arkansas
• Northwest Arkansas
• Northeast Arkansas
• Southeast Arkansas
• Southwest Arkansas
• South-Central Arkansas
• West-Central Arkansas
• East Arkansas

Craig D. Campbell Lake Conway Reservoir (under renovation) and Nursery Pond
(updated 4-9-2026) AGFC staff in Mayflower note that while Lake Conway is drawn down for renovation, the Lake Conway Nursery Pond is open for fishing in the immediate area, with bream and trout being reported among catches of late. The 70-acre pond has been stocked by the AGFC with mature bass, crappie, catfish and bream as well as rainbow trout for the cold weather months.
Lake Conway renovation is proceeding on schedule with the demolition of the old dam and plans in place for the new dam and weir. Read more here. 

Little Red River
For the Army Corps of Engineers’ real-time outflow report from Greers Ferry Dam, visit the Corps’ Little Rock office website or by calling (501) 362-5150). Also check the Southwestern Power Administration website to see forecast generation schedule.

NOTE: The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has changed trout limits for the Little Red River below Greers Ferry Dam, effective Feb. 1, due to a significant loss of stocking population at two Arkansas hatcheries in 2025. Anglers may keep two rainbow trout daily, only one longer than 14 inches, in the Greers Ferry tailwater; all other trout caught must be released immediately. This rule is in effect until further notice.

(updated 4-9-2026) Mike Winkler of Little Red River Fly Fishing Trips (501-507-3688) said Greers Ferry Lake is sitting close to 7 feet below power pool. With that being said, Southwestern Power Administration (SWPA) has not been running much water lately.
“At the time of writing this report Wednesday night, they last ran water six days ago last Friday. We’ll see if they decide to run some again this Friday (April 11).
“The weather forecast this week has high temperatures in the 80s, so it will be interesting to see if the warmer weather increases power demand and gets them generating some water if temps get into the mid- to upper 80s. The long-range forecast also has rain expected Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, which would be good news for the state of Arkansas and for Greers Ferry Lake.
“I’m a straight shooter and like to give an honest report. With days of no generation, the bite has been tough. When they run water, like always, the bite picks up and fishing gets good.
“As far as wade fishing, the entire river is wide open right now with the low water. The best bite has been up at the dam, especially around the discharge pipes coming off the hatchery where that cold, oxygenated water flows into the river. Because of that, you’re seeing a lot of boats launching up there as well, even with the water this low.
“With these low flows, a lot of anglers have also been launching at Lobo Landing. That stretch of the river has some deeper water and moss beds, and that’s where most of the fish are holding right now. The only downside is Lobo Landing has been getting a lot of pressure, so the bite can be hit or miss. Some days you can go there and have a really good day, and other days it can be pretty tough.
“Bottom line: We need rain and we need a consistent generation schedule.
“For now, focus on deeper sections of the river. Try to get good drifts through the shoals and then work the plunge pools below them, where fish are stacking up. It’s also helping to downsize your flies.
“Hot flies right now: caddis patterns, Pheasant Tail Soft Hackles, midges, egg patterns, San Juan Worms.

“If you’re looking to get out on the Little Red River, give me a call (info listed above with the website) and let’s go fishing.”

Greers Ferry Lake
For the Army Corps of Engineers’ real-time lake level and outflow report from Greers Ferry Dam, visit the Corps’ Little Rock office website. 

(updated 4-2-2026) Fish ’N Stuff (501-834-5733) in Sherwood said the fishing has stayed in a familiar pattern with the way the temperature has dipped around the past week. For anglers fishing for black bass (both largemouth and smallmouth), focus on 45-degree banks and throw a SPRO Rock Crawler. Also, spinnerbaits like a natural shad color (off-white) will work. A double willow blade shape would be a good choice for spinner.

Also give 5- to 6-inch swimbaits at try up shallow. If you’re around clear water, look for beds in 3-5 feet and throw a white or watermelon weightless soft plastic.

White bass have been doing well in mainly Salt Creek, Hill Creek and in Middle Fork. They’re being caught on 3-inch white swimbaits with an 1/8-ounce or 3/16-ounce jighead.

Harris Brake Lake
(updated 4-9-2026) Bing Watkins at Harris Brake Lake Resort (501-889-2745) said the fishing is still slow again this week. Not many people were fishing and ones who did weren’t catching much. The water is still very low and they did not get enough rain, she said. Most stumps can be seen sticking out. The clarity of the water is dingy with the pollen.

Three weeks ago, a couple of anglers managed to catch largemouth bass and crappie fishing from a boat further out on the lake. Crappie appeared about to spawn, they told her. No update on that this week, though.

Crappie two weeks ago were being caught off the bank and also being caught in 3-foot depth out on the lake using minnows. Largemouths are biting close to the surface. Grape-colored plastic worms were working for slightly deeper bass. 

Some catfish were starting to get active and were biting crappie anglers’ minnows. Some of the catfish ranged from 2 to 5 pounds.

For more updates, follow Harris Brake Lake Resort on its Facebook page. 

Lake Maumelle
(updated 4-9-2026) WestRock Landing in Roland (501-658-5598) said the water temperature Thursday had taken a nice leap up and was ranging 65-67 degrees. The lake level is steady but still well below normal pool at 7.42 feet low. The new boat ramps are open; they suggest trimming your motor, however.

The largemouth bass bite has been fair. Reports have anglers catching them in 2-8 feet of water. The spawn should be happening. Try using square bills, spinnerbaits, Senkos and Texas-rigged worms. Spotted bass (aka Kentucky bass) also are fair. They’re mixed in with the largemouth at 2-8 feet depth and also some are being caught at 12 feet. Use spinnerbaits and jigs.

No reports on white bass this week. Try Twister tails, jigs, spoons or shad-imitating lures.

Crappie have been fair. They are anywhere from 4-30 feet. Some reports this week had a few around 10-20 feet. Use minnows and jigs.

No reports on bream or catfish. Bream are about to be ready to take jigs and worms as this water warms. Catfish should be getting interested in smaller bream, liver and worms.

Arkansas River at Morrilton
For the real-time water flow at the Ormond Lock and Dam and Morrilton stage level, visit the Corps’ Little Rock office website. 

Little Maumelle River
(update 4-9-2026) Ray Hudson at River Valley Marina (501-517-1250) said just about everything is going in terms of fishing right now. The water is normal and clear. He didn’t know the specific temp but figured with the way the fishing was going, it was just right.

Crappie are being caught in 2-3 feet of water. Minnows and mainly jigs are the way to go. Try red/chartreuse and Monkey Milk for jig color.

Black bass are definitely up around the bank and about the spawn, he said. They’re being caught on chartreuse crankbaits and chartreuse spinnerbaits.

Bream haven’t really started to bed yet, Ray said, but there have been a few bream caught. Crickets and worms are working. A few people are catching catfish. They’re being caught on hot dogs and liver. Some are also catching a few on shiners. Fish deep. 

One angler “had a pretty nice mess of white bass” that were caught running up the river. He was using shad-looking crankbaits, Ray said.

Arkansas River (Maumelle Pool)
For the real-time water flow at the Toad Suck Lock and Dam, visit the Corps’ Little Rock office website. 

Arkansas River (Little Rock Area Pools)
For the real-time water flow at the Murray Lock and Dam and David D. Terry Lock and Dam, as well as the Little Rock pool stage level, visit the Corps’ Little Rock office website.

(updated 4-2-2026) Fish ’N Stuff (501-834-5733) said with the slight dip in temperature and the bounce back during the week, nothing much has changed in the fishing from last week. If this weather starts to hold, anglers could see some changes next week. For bass, they’re still mainly going to be found biting in the backwaters. Your best bet is throwing a white Chatterbait toward the insides of the jetties. And then, up on the bank, try throwing a black-and-blue jig around the grass and the wood with a green pumpkin trailer. Also, in some areas in the backwaters, black bass are going to start getting on beds. So, go with a weightless tube or a weightless worm in a bright color around those areas.

The crappie will also be most active now in the backwaters. They’re going to be shallow as well, so go with a black-and-chartreuse crappie jig with a 1/16-ounce jighead. You’ll find them shallow around grass or other cover.

Peckerwood Lake
(updated 4-2-2026) Donna Mulherin at Herman’s Landing (501-626-6899) said anglers have been catching some crappie and catfish, both in good numbers. 

The lake is low, but no stumps were showing. It’s about halfway to full and she’s hoping the rain in the forecast will fill the lake up.

They’re catching both species by yo-yoing and some anglers are jig fishing. Catfishers are using yo-yos, limblines and jigs baited with minnows. For the go-to crappie jig, make sure it’s a brown/chartreuse color, she said.

Cotter Area
(updated 4-9-2026) Cotter Trout Dock (870-435-6525) said the river level has returned to a fairly consistent generation of minimum flow (700 cfs) with the occasional rise to two units, usually late afternoons. Bull Shoals Lake is currently 4 feet below power pool at 655.27 feet msl.

The Gold Cleo or the silver Blue Fox with the rainbow blade are attracting a lot of attention since the recent rain. The old faithfuls are a good bet right now, too: the red-gold Thomas Buoyant Spoon caused a splash this past week, and the ever-successful shrimp/PowerBait brought in rainbows left and right. Keep your bait near the bottom in the center of the channel during these very low water events. 

If you’re not having any luck, try something different right away — keeps both you and the fish interested and attentive. Change up the color you’re using or even just reverse the order. 

The catch has been especially good this past week for browns. Although most were not officially “trophies,” there were many that fell just an inch or two short of the 24-inch requirement to earn a catch-and-release pin. The bait of choice was, again, sculpins, but crawdads are crawling out of the mud and adding to the mix.

Low-water times have been great for fly-fishers with many wading opportunities opening up. Can’t miss with a silver/red midge. You’ll see hatches most every day with these sunny afternoons. Don’t forget: The river level can change fast, so keep an eye on the water level if wade fishing. 

“Stop in and catch up while you’re in Cotter, Trout-Capital-Of-The-USA. We’d love to welcome you to The Natural State.”

Calico Rock Area
(updated 4-2-2026) Dave McCulley, owner of Jenkins Fishing Service in Calico Rock, said, “Another great week of fishing around Calico Rock. In the mornings we have been seeing water below 4 feet and clear, which is great for artificial lures. On these mornings, we started at the Calico Rock bridge and then fished downriver to stay ahead of rising water. Throwing quarter-ounce Thomas Colorado Spoons in nickel/gold worked great for rainbows and the occasional brown trout. For larger browns and rainbows, Rapala Countdowns, CD5 or CD7, in brown trout or rainbow trout colors worked well. Additionally Dynamic HD lures in ghost brown or rainbow trout colors worked well. 

“In the afternoon, with the rising and dingy water, we were moving several miles upriver to find dropping and clearer water and changing to drift-fishing with Uncommon Bait UV eggs and shrimp. That resulted in some fat 16-inch-plus rainbows being caught. 

“North-central Arkansas is in a severe drought and we look forward to the rain coming on Friday and Saturday. As of now they are predicting over 1.5 inches of rain. The dry ground should soak up most of the rain, and we don’t expect there to be much effect on the river.”

Bull Shoals Lake
For the Army Corps of Engineers’ real-time outflow report from Bull Shoals Dam, visit the Corps’ Little Rock office website.

(updated 4-9-2026) Fishing guide Del Colvin at Bull Shoals Lake (815-592-4302), delcolvinfishing.com, said Wednesday that the lake level remains at 655 feet msl; water temperature is up slightly to about 60 degrees. “The lake is the lowest it’s been in quite a while for the spawning season. It would be nice to have a little more cover for recruitment. April means easy bass fishing where everybody has been catching on Bull Shoals. Moss is still a little annoying. But the lake is fishing good. 

“Look at early pre-spawn areas. There are a few making moves up to spawn but still just a bit early for most; usually the smallmouth will go first.”

Powerfishermen are still catching on the right day: wind/clouds/rain/stain with spinnerbaits and Chatterbaits. The shad are not everywhere and moving, so you’re going to have to put the work in. A small Tater Swimbait is working. “I’ve been using a traditional fluke, or try your favorite minnow to shake around the shad eaters. 

“If the conditions are clear water and post-front flat and sunny, it will get tough. I have been able to see bottom in 26 feet in places. Get off the bank and bomb casts with lighter fluorocarbon line. Try a finesse Jewel Pee-Wee Jig in green pumpkin orange, and a green pumpkin shaky head and a Ned rig are also working. Time to start checking points and pockets in 5-25 feet. 

“The tube guys’ wobble headers, hula grubbers and Carolina riggers are in play. They are starting to look down. Remember: Fish the conditions!’” 

Del regularly posts new YouTube videos. Visit his YouTube site (Bull Shoals Fishing Report) or delcolvinfishing.com for more information and tips on fishing Bull Shoals Lake.

(updated 4-9-2026) Southernwalleye Guide Service (501-365-1606) said the fishing this past week has been good. Spring fishing patterns are still holding as water temps have changed only a little. We are still seeing a lot of male walleye swimming the spawning point shorelines at night. Look for fish on and around those known spawning sites. Main lake and secondary points have been producing good numbers as well as quality fish.

Fish shallow in the early mornings and on cloudy days in 2-6 feet of water and deeper in 8-15 feet of water if there is little or no cloud cover.

Hair jigs (1/8 to 3/8 ounce) and minnows or jigs and paddletails or ringworms work well after the sun comes up. Jerkbaits like the 110 and 110+1 or +2 style in black and silver or clown colors, as well as Table Rock Shad, are also good at this time.

If trolling, try stick baits like Rattlin’ Rogues in purple chartreuse or black and gold. Troll in 8-15 feet of water at slow speeds — 1.0 to 1.5 mph seems to work best. Look for an open-water trolling bite to start soon as the walleye start to migrate back to the summer holding spots. Deep-diving crankbaits like Bandits, Rapala Tail Dancers (size 11) and Reef Runners trolled over the flooded forest along the old river channel will get some nice fish. 

If you’re into night fishing, now is the time to start going. Two hours before light and up to two or three hours after dark seem to be the best times. Fishing slow at night is the key. 

(updated 4-9-2026) Crappie 101 Guide Service (870-577-2045) says crappie are starting to move up on shallow areas and structure where available in creeks, spawning. Minnows under a float have been good as well as casting the bank and barely bumping the bottom on a slow retrieve.

Norfork Lake
For the Army Corps of Engineers’ real-time outflow report from Norfork Dam, visit the Corps’ Little Rock office website.

(updated 4-9-2026) Tom Reynolds of STR Outfitters (also Facebook.com/stroutfitters or 870-421-1541) guides out of Tracy Ferry Marina. He offered this pointers for spring fishing on Norfork:

“Starting in late February we typically will see the winds switch to the south and a gradual warm up of air and water temperatures. The stripers will begin to move from the deep water following the shad. There will be multiple opportunities to catch stripers at that time. Both live bait and artificial baits will be very effective. The night bite will begin once the winds blow from the south. You will want to fish the northern and northeastern banks of the bays and main lake and main arm points. Some excellent spots are the points near Norfork Dam, Koso Bay and Point, the Hudson area, Frog Pond, Diamond Bay, Cranfield Island and the points north of the Cranfield area heading toward Red Bank Access.  
“The best time to night fish is a half-hour before dark until about 10 p.m. The best bait historically is a 5-inch or 6-inch Rogues. The color of the Rogue varies, with black/gold, clown and blue/black combinations seeming to work the best, but experiment with the colors until you find the one that works best that night. Bone color has been hot the last few years. Make long casts parallel to the bank and reel very, very slowly. A lot of the bites will be right next to the boat, so always have a big net ready. Stripers, hybrids and walleye are all active during this time. Watch the water temperature. As it moves up toward 60 degrees, the bite will get stronger. 
“During this time of year, live bait, shad and shiners are also very effective. The stripers will be roaming the shoreline looking for food. I use shad, but everything I do can be done using shiners. Most days I will run a large spread of lines. I begin with two inside planer boards, one near the shore and other out 20 to 30 yards. These board lines will have large gizzard shad in the 4- to 8-inch range. Out of the back of the boat I will have two lines with floats, shad on the hooks, with no weight at various depths from 10 to 30 feet from the floats. These lines will be set back from the boat between 30 to 60 yards. I then set out two free lines with a split shot weight on one line and nothing on the other. Both will have large shad on them and will be set 40-60 feet from the back of the boat. The last outside line will have one planer board with a large shad out 40 yards from the back of the boat. I will put out a wake bait: It is a large shad about 1 foot under the water right behind the engine. The wake bait is very effective for stripers roaming shallow water.
“As the water warms, the stripers will continue to move into the larger creeks to spawn. The magic water temperature number is 60 degrees. Your tactic to catch stripers should be to keep moving with the fish and continue to experiment with your techniques.”

Beaver Lake
For the Army Corps of Engineers’ real-time outflow report from Beaver Lake Dam, visit the Corps’ Little Rock office website.

(updated 4-9-2026) Jon Conklin with FishOn Guide Service (479-233-3474) said Beaver Lake has come up around 1.5 feet to 1,117.20 feet msl thanks to 3 inches of rain last weekend. Water temps were 60-plus Monday, and warmer up river arms. I did see some 65-degree water Monday.
“I have actually heard of some crappie being caught that have already spawned, so I believe we are going to have a good spawning season this year. Water is coming up and not at flood stage, so hopefully the Corps of Engineers will leave us alone until the spawn is done.
“So, with the water coming in, the river arms are very muddy with lots of debris. I am not sure how far north the mud will go.

“Stripers are scattered. Normally this time of the year there is a big push south toward Point 12 and the U.S. Highway 412 bridge, but with the muddy conditions, your guess is as good as mine. My advice: Trust electronics.
“Walleye were a disappointment for most. If you had kayaks or canoes or if you just plain old-school waded, you could catch a few. Water was just low on spawning shoals. With this latest rise, maybe some late arrivals will show.
“White bass should push up. That remains to be seen in any numbers. Black bass are ready to go.
“Busy times, stay safe!”

Visit Jon’s Facebook page for the latest updates between weekly reports at FishOn Guide Service Goshen AR.

Beaver Tailwater
NOTE: The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has changed trout limits for the White River below Bull Shoals Dam, effective Feb. 1, due to a significant loss of stocking population at two Arkansas hatcheries in 2025. Anglers may keep two rainbow trout daily, only one longer than 14 inches, in the Bull Shoals tailwater; all other trout caught must be released immediately. This rule is in effect until further notice.

(updated 4-9-2026) Guide Austin Kennedy (479-244-0039) says fishing conditions on the Beaver tailwater “continue to improve as we move firmly into the post-spawn period for walleye. Water temperatures have now climbed into the low 60s, which is a major trigger for increased activity. With the spawn wrapping up, post-spawn walleye are beginning to transition into recovery and feeding mode, and we’re starting to see more consistent movement and positioning.

“We are actively catching post-spawn females, which confirms the transition is well underway. These fish are beginning to slide off shallow chunk rock and reposition along nearby breaks, transitions and slightly deeper staging areas as they recover from the spawn. Meanwhile, males are still holding shallow, but they are also starting to spread out and become more aggressive as feeding activity increases.

“With fish now dispersing, covering water is key right now. Walleye are no longer tightly grouped in spawn areas, so anglers need to stay mobile and target chunk rock transitions, sand edges and gradual depth changes to locate active fish. As water temperatures continue to rise, expect post-spawn feeding windows to become stronger and more predictable, especially during low-light periods.

“White bass are also beginning their spring run. We are starting to see more fish pushing up the river, and activity should continue to increase as temperatures hold in the 60s. This bite should only improve in the coming weeks, providing additional opportunities while targeting walleye.
“The trout bite remains good, but fish are more spread out than they have been recently. Anglers are finding success by covering water and adjusting presentations, rather than staying in one location. There are still quality trout being caught, and overall trout fishing continues to be productive.
“Recent rainfall has helped improve water levels, which has been beneficial for overall fish activity. However, we are still running lower than normal, making boat positioning and covering water even more important.
“Overall, conditions are trending upward. With post-spawn walleye beginning to feed, white bass moving into the river, improving water temperatures, and a solid trout bite, the coming weeks should provide excellent multispecies fishing opportunities on the Beaver tailwater.”

For regular updates during the week, check out Austin’s Facebook page (Busch Mountain Fishing Guide Service).

Lake Charles
(updated 4-9-2026) Shelly Jeffery at Lake Charles State Park (870-878-6595) said that we’re coming up to the best days to fish, according to the “moon times,” with the best days falling April 14-20. Don’t let the low water that has prevailed lately on Lake Charles scare you away, as three species — bream, crappie and black bass – are all biting well.

The good bream bite, according to anglers, is coming on worms and on jigs of all colors. You’ll find them around the shoreline and shallow. Crappie a good shallow as well on minnows, worms and all colors of jigs. Stick to that shoreline for both bream or crappie.

Bass were reported biting nicely, though the anglers weren’t reporting the baits being used. This is a good time for spinnerbaits and Chatterbaits, though, with the 60.6-degree water that was recorded last weekend.

The lake is its usual murky color. The lake did get a little more than a half-inch of rain last weekend to help the conditions.

Lake Poinsett
(updated 4-2-2026) Jonathan Wagner, superintendent at Lake Poinsett State Park, said Lake Poinsett currently has fairly low water levels due to lack of substantial rain. However, anglers reported catching crappie in around 8 feet of water about an hour before sunset off of brushpiles found near the shorelines in the southern part of the lake. 

Bream fishing is making its presence known as well and many anglers have been spotted along the banks. Lake Poinsett State Park’s visitor center is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. every day and has a variety of live and artificial baits including minnows, crickets and worms.

Spring River
(updated 4-9-2026) Mark Crawford with springriverfliesandguides.com (870-955-8300) said water levels are at 290 cfs (350 is average for the Spring River) and water clarity has been clear. “A bit of much-needed rainfall has fallen lately, but mostly we have had strong winds — making for a tough day on the water; just put the wind to your back for effortless casting.
“But seriously, the area is still in need of rain. Easy wading conditions, but not as easy to float a drift-boat currently. Rafts, canoes and kayaks are the ticket for floating the river, and with all the campgrounds open, getting ready for the summer canoe hatch, these are available for rental. A great time for wade fishing at the campgrounds. Jim Hinkle Spring River State Fish Hatchery has been stocking very nice-sized trout at all locations on a more regular schedule.
“Low and clear has its benefits, with dry flies and small nymphs working great in the clear conditions. On several days, midges, caddis emergers and dries have been the ticket with light tippet. Hoppers with droppers are always fun with nymphs, Y2Ks, or squiggly worms for droppers. Tie the dropper with lighter tippet to save hoppers.
“The nice fish have been caught on olive Woolies and pine squirrel sculpins this week. Work all the pockets and every seam, that big fish is there. For spin-fishers, a Trout Magnet set up in hot pink, white and Purple Haze can work well. A small split shot above the Trout Magnet is important to get down fast.
“Smallmouth bass are there down deep or working the strong seams below riffles. Sculpin, leech and baitfish patterns work. Work them slow — the slower the better. The Spring’s river bottom is a great place for a smallmouth bass to live and even better place to lose a fly. Clousers, Bug Woollies and sculpin patterns work great; just bring plenty. When working a stretch of water, a slow retrieve will entice smallmouth bass, and a fast retrieval will be the ticket for a big brown trout. Never know on the Spring what may be lurking in the waters.

“It’s not until the end of May that the canoe hatch begins on the river. All of the campgrounds are open, allowing for increased accesses to the river. The AGFC has a map on its website listing all stocking areas on the Spring River, under ‘Resources.’
“The river is very low, allowing for much easier wading with low water levels. Be careful out there, the solid limestone river bottom is very slick. Wading staffs are always handy. Rain is surely on the way. Keep an eye on the blog on our website (linked above) for changes in river conditions.”

White River
For the Army Corps of Engineers’ real-time gauge level and flow from the White River stages at Batesville, Newport and Augusta and all other sites within the White River basin in Arkansas, visit the Corps’ Little Rock office website.

Arkansas River (Pine Bluff Pool)
For the real-time water flow at the Emmett Sanders Lock and Dam and Maynard Lock and Dam, as well as the Pine Bluff pool stage level, visit the Corps’ Little Rock office website.

Cane Creek Lake
(updated 4-9-2026) Shelley Burr at Cane Creek State Park, (870-628-4714) said anglers, both men and women this past week, have been catching big nice bream and crappie.
Late in 2025, the AGFC began treating certain areas of the lake for Cuban bulrush, an invasive aquatic vegetation, according to Ryan Mozisek of the AGFC. Cuban bulrush is a fast-spreading invasive aquatic plant, and it was found in September as being widespread throughout the lake. Initial treatments have begun to treat the infestation in specific areas.
“Management efforts will need to be continued over the next several years to combat the vegetation in the lake so that anglers do not lose any more fishable water to these floating islands,” Mozisek said.
Cane Creek Lake is a 1,700-acre lake in Lincoln County that was built in 1986 and is owned and managed by the AGFC. It is stocked with bass, crappie, bream and catfish. The visitor center offers a pier, and there is good fishing often reported at the campsite. The lake has always had abundant floating and submerged aquatic vegetation. Increased focus recently on invasive aquatic species at the lake led to the discovery of the Cuban bulrush.
AGFC district staff also are working to manage other vegetation, such as American lotus, water lily, water shield and hydrilla, that have reached undesirable levels for anglers and biologists at Cane Creek Lake, Mozisek reported.

Lake Monticello
(updated 4-9-2026) Southeast Arkansas AGFC biologists on March 30 completed the lake’s annual nighttime electrofishing sample. While no lunkers were caught (the lake did produce one entry into the Arkansas Legacy Lunker program in February), the biologists say the lake is trending in the right direction with ample forage stocked after its renovation. A healthy number of smaller fish were sampled. Catch rates exceeded both the regional average and the 2025 numbers.
The survey produced bass in the 6-pound range, but AGFC Biologist Ryan Mozisek and crew continue to track and value reports from local anglers who have documented catches of 8 pounds and larger, including the 10-plus pounder donated to Legacy Lunker, throughout the spring.
The lake’s forage base is booming. Biologists observed a high abundance of threadfin shad, redear sunfish and bluegill. More forage is more fuel for growth for the sport fish like bass and crappie.
The AGFC approved new fishing regulations for 2026 regarding the harvest of sport fish on Lake Monticello. Anglers may keep 5 bass, but only one bass may be 16 inches or more in length. Anglers may harvest 12 crappie, but only 7 crappie may be longer than 12 inches. All other fish creel limits follow the state regulations on that species.

Lake Chicot
(updated 4-9-2026) Lake Chicot, part of Lake Chicot State Park, is home to bluegill, channel catfish, largemouth bass, hybrid striped bass, redear sunfish and other bream, in addition to crappie. If you fish Lake Chicot, Connerly Bayou downstream of Connerly Dam, or Ditch Bayou from Lake Chicot downstream to Ditch Bayou Dam, be aware that crappie shorter than 10 inches must be immediately released and that the crappie daily limit is 20.

Millwood Lake
For the Army Corps of Engineers’ real-time lake level and outflow report from Millwood Lake Dam, visit the Corps Little Rock office website.

(updated 4-2-2026) Mike Siefert at Millwood Lake Guide Service said Wednesday that the lake is about 5 inches above normal pool and stable at 259.6 feet msl. Millwood Lake Dam is releasing about 785 cfs and tailwater is near 225 feet and stable. Surface temperature is ranging 65 degrees early to 71 later in the day along Little River, depending on location. Clarity along Little River is heavy stain and visibility, improving daily with reduced river current. Typical Millwood/Little River clarity ranges 10-12 inches visibility depending on location. Clarity and visibility of oxbows continue improving daily as levels stabilize, and visibility in the oxbows ranges 15-30 inches in many locations. Horseshoe and McGuire oxbows have 20-30 inches visibility.

Siefert had these fishing specifics from this week:

* Over the past two weeks, largemouth bass activity levels have increased and they have been responding well to several reaction-style baits like spinnerbaits, Chatterbaits and soft plastics. The bass have been moving shallow, cruising flats and bedding areas, with numerous beds having been observed. With the increased surface and lake pool temps again this week — and on warmer, sunny afternoons — we continue seeing male bass, and a few very large females, roaming shallow in backs of flats outside creek channels, where spawning areas are situated. Many of the bass are now post spawn and pulling out to the next drop zone and structure from the shallow flats. Bass continue searching deeper drops for forage and baitfish in creek channels and structure, and are moving in and out of new lily pad bloom stands and are easy to spook in clear water flats. The back of the creeks, Millwood State Park and the oxbows are where you can find the warmest water and are the best bets to begin searching. 

Brazalo Lures’ Strutter 2.0 Bladed Jigs and 501 tandem willow blade spinnerbaits have been working well and getting good reactions for several weeks from black bass in creek channels. They’ll continue getting reactions in the oxbows on points near stumps, lily pads and creek channel bends near vegetation and fresh lily pad blooms, especially using a curly tail grub trailer. Best colors over the past couple of weeks were white, Spot Remover and Millwood Mayhem Bream using a Bass Assassin 3-inch FFS Split Tail Shad trailer on their Strutter 2.0 Bladed Jigs. A slow, stop and go approach will draw random reactions if you are in fairly clear to moderate stained water fishing it at 1-4 feet of depth.

In the oxbows and along dropping structure into 9-10 feet depth, heavy ¾- and 1-ounce Rat-L-Traps in Red Chrome Craw or, Millwood Magic will draw random reactions in the 8- to 12-foot deeper drops on a slow, jigging retrieve. And ⅜-ounce sized chrome/blue Spinner Rat-L-Traps (i.e., the Tail Spinners) will get a reaction when the bass roam into new blooming lily pads flats of 4-8 feet depths on warmer, bright sunny days, and will finesse well through the lily pad stems around vegetation. Red Chrome Crawfish and Red Chrome or 1-knocker Millwood Magic Rat-L-Traps have also been getting a few reactions from 6-8 feet deep near vertical drops. Bass Assassin Shads in Salt and Pepper Silver Phantom, Houdini, Panhandle Moon and Chico’s Red Ear, in the 5- to 7-inch shad sizes — Texas-rigged on small, light wire Owner hooks — continue drawing random reactions in heavy vegetation or on stumps, and near cypress tree knees on warmer, sunny afternoons in 6-8 feet depth.

* The migration of the white bass up Little River for the annual spring spawn is pretty much over, though we are seeing a lot of action and anglers running up and down Little River between Cemetery Slough and Wilton Landing. A few other anglers we spoke with between McGuire Lake entrance and Brown’s Slough recently, said they caught around 40 white bass from 2-3.5 pounds in heavy schools between McGuire Lake entrance on Little River and Black’s Branch. 

With the increase in surface temps into the upper 60s over the past week, white bass were biting well along Little River near McGuire Lake entrance, Black’s Branch, Brown’s Slough and Wilton Landing. Mid-day and mid-afternoons were best search periods on high sunny afternoons. Bomber Fat Free Guppy, Fat Free Fingerlings in Tennessee Shad and Citrus Shad patterns, H&H Spinnerbaits, half-ounce Rat-L-Traps, Chuck’N Spins, Rooster Tails, Little Georges, Rocket Shads, UnderSpins with a 3-inch white grub, and Beetle Spins are all working. 

* Crappie have greatly improved on jigs over the past two to three weeks with increased water temperature in the 5- to 12-foot depths. Crappie continue hitting our black plastic lizards and white spinnerbaits while we were bass fishing in McGuire and Horseshoe oxbows — we caught several more huge crappie from 2-2.5 pounds each on our spinnerbaits again this week. They have also improved in planted brush from 10-12 feet of depth near Cottonshed campground, Okay Landing and Saline inflow in the main lake over the past week, but we are beginning to see them move over the last week into the cypress trees in 4-6 feet depth. Bonehead Tackle Stump Bugs in Slick Diablo, Blue Ice or Chartreuse Diablo are working on a 1/16-ounce Northland Tackle Tungsten Crappie King Jig, while a 2-inch Bonehead Brush Glider on the same jig, in Black Cherry Firetail, Bonfire Glow, Chartreuse Diablo or Cotton Candy, is working in planted brush on forward-facing sonar.

* Flathead and channel catfish have been biting well. And from two guys we visited with along Little River this week, they were catching 5- to 8-pound flatheads as well as blue cats on limblines, yo-yos and tightlining using a variety of cheese dough baits, chicken gizzards, cut buffalo or shad, and Blue Day bait.

For more details, visit the Millwood Lake Guide Service webpage.

DeGray Lake
For the most updated lake level at DeGray Lake, click here.

(updated 4-9-2026) Capt. Darryl Morris of Family Fishing Trips (501-844-5418) said he has been fishing this past week at both DeGray and Ouachita, and they are similar in conditions and bite. “Water temperature is in the mid-60s and holding, so obviously the crappie are in full spawn. The black crappie are getting mostly done and the white crappie are just getting started. Don’t become discouraged if your catches are reduced while their priorities are not on eating. You will find some on shallow habitat and some scattered. We have caught crappie on brushpiles as shallow as 2.5 feet deep in 6feet of water. We are also catching scattered crappie moving between beds and brush trolling shallow crankbaits. Be safe everyone.”

(updated 4-2-2026) Randy Plyler with Plyler Outdoors Guide Service (870-210-0522) reports that black bass can be caught on finesse worms and Carolina rigs in 5-15 feet water. Some can also be caught wacky-style. Some have also come on crankbait. Also, some white bass have been running the creeks as well, too, and can be caught on jighead shads and spoons. 

De Queen Lake
For the Army Corps of Engineers’ real-time lake level and outflow report from De Queen Lake, visit the Corps’ Little Rock office website.

Dierks Lake
For the Army Corps of Engineers’ real-time lake level and outflow report from Dierks Lake, visit the Corps’ Little Rock office website.

(updated 3-26-2026) AGFC Fisheries staff note that if bass production in tournaments is any indication of how good the bass fishing is, Dierks Lake should definitely be among an angler’s target destinations. Based on results from the 2025 Arkansas Tournament Information Program Report, this lake in Howard and Sevier counties in southwest Arkansas was the state’s top tournament fishing destination last year. Biologists use data on the numbers of anglers, fish caught, average weights of fish and numbers of fish weighing 5 pounds or greater to develop key indicators of fishing quality. Those indicators are compiled into rankings for each body of water to help keep tabs on trends in tournament angling and offer anglers a peek into where they may want to schedule their next event. 

While mainstays like Lake Dardanelle, Millwood Lake and Lake Ouachita continued to appear in the top rankings of the ATIPR, Dierks snuck into the report for the first time and did so in impressive fashion. During five tournaments at the lake in 2025, the average winning weight was 20.77 pounds. Anglers also brought 22 fish to the scales in excess of 5 pounds, despite the low number of overall tournaments and tournament anglers. 

“At 13,600 acres, Dierks is one of our smaller reservoirs, especially of those created by the [Army Corps of Engineers],” Eric Naas, Black Bass Biologist for the AGFC, said. “It’s tucked away in southwest Arkansas, so it’s sort of a hidden gem, but local anglers really enjoy fishing there. This is just the first time we had enough tournament results to include it in the rankings.”

Lake Greeson Tailwater
For the most updated Narrows Dam generation schedule from SWEPCO, click here.

Lake Greeson
For the most updated lake level at Lake Greeson, click here.

(updated 4-2-2026) Philip Kastner of Trader Bill’s Outdoors in Little Rock and Hot Springs said on the weekly “Wild Side Show” on KABZ-FM, 103.7 The Buzz noted that Greeson is the lowest of the major reservoirs in Arkansas right now, down 6.5 below full pool.

“We need the rain that’s coming this weekend. Hopefully it will put a little fresh water in the lakes and fill some of these reservoirs up a little bit.”

He also said, “Incredible time to live in central Arkansas. Lake temps are anywhere from the middle 60s, upper 60s even to low 70s, especially in the late afternoons in most pockets. The water is ridiculously clear for this time of year. It’s just rare to have a spring when you’re dealing with water this clear. The only exception to that is in the back of pockets when you’re dealing with pollen, but that’s not muddy water. The biggest thing we’re talking about is the red oak noodle pollen clusters that are falling in the lakes. If you look at any pine tree, you’re looking at a pollen bomb that’s about to explode. That makes it a little more difficult to fish in the backs of pockets when you have all those pollen clusters floating around. That’s what you’re fighting.”

Wednesday marked the full moon peak for April, and there will be some carryover in the nighttime sky over the next few days. “You get one of these a year. The peak of a full moon, the peak of the black bass spawn especially with the water levels and the water temperatures the way they are.”

White Oak Lake Area
(updated 4-2-2026) Three largemouth bass were caught earlier this year that qualified for the Arkansas Legacy Lunker program. All three were transferred to the Joe Hogan State Fish Hatchery in Lonoke. Since being renovated and reopened in 2013, Lower White Oak has been turning out a number of double-digit and near-double-digit bass, and the Legacy Lunker program is putting a new spotlight on that success.

Lake Catherine Tailwater (Below Carpenter Dam)
For weekly flow releases from Carpenter Dam, visit www.entergy.com/hydro

(updated 4-9-2026) Shane Goodner, owner of Catch’em All Guide Service, reports that water temperature below the dam has risen to 56 degrees with clear conditions from the dam to the bridge. All loading ramps in the Carpenter Dam tailrace are available and safe to launch boats in current and slackwater conditions. 

Now that the lake is back at normal summertime pool, the rainbow trout bite is much more consistent. Despite the lack of numbers, trout are being caught from the bank and boat using nightcrawlers and redworms fished just off the bottom with a marshmallow floater. Rainbows are chasing threadfin shad, which is a main forage item in the tailrace. Casting jigs in a 1/16- and ⅛-ounce size around rock structure and sandbars in times of generation has taken limits of trout over the past week.

The walleye spawn is in full gear in the tailrace as male walleye have prepared the beds for the larger females since mid-February. These fish are spawning from the bridge to the dam on both banks and can be found by trolling shallow-running crankbaits that imitate shad or crawfish. Walleye in the 3- to 5-pound range have been caught using this method this past week. Tipping a jighead with a live minnow has proven to be effective in the deeper water around the bridge. These fish will be in the tailrace through May and can provide anglers with exciting action in addition to some fine table fare. 

Late March marked the beginning of the crappie migration to the dam for their yearly spawn. Jigs and live minnows will be the ticket to success in catching numbers of these fish as they congregate around sandbars and rock structure. Crappie will strike lures during periods of generation and can be taken from boats or bank. Hopefully, the crappie and white bass spawn will give anglers an opportunity to catch fish and somewhat make up for the huge void created by the lack of quality numbers of trout stocked in the lake due to major losses last year at two trout hatcheries. 

Catfish will migrate into the tailrace in early June to spawn, and these fish will greatly add to the chances of fishing success on Lake Catherine. 

As always, people visiting the Carpenter Dam Park must obey all rules and regulations and cooperate with law enforcement officials when asked. Trash cans are limited, so be sure and pick-up after yourself and go the extra mile in properly disposing of trash. Littering is against the law and destroys the look of as beautiful an area as the Carpenter Dam park. 

Lake Dardanelle
For the Army Corps of Engineers’ outflow and gauge level reports from Dardanelle, visit the Corps’ Little Rock office website.

(updated 4-9-2026) AGFC biologists from the west-central region did some electrofishing samples on two pools of the Arkansas River (Lake Dardanelle and Pool 9) earlier this year. They looked at fish populations in the backwaters as well as in the main river channel.

While backwater areas look consistent with past years for fish numbers and species, main river habitats showed fewer fish than expected. This is likely due to the prolonged flooding and high flow rates we experienced this spring and summer. It can temporarily push fish out of sampling zones. Biologists expect these populations to bounce back in the coming years as river flows return to normal.

As for some species snapshots from the sampling: 

Largemouth bass/spotted bass: Adult populations are still looking good. Although years with high flow rates generally lead to weak year classes, a fair number of young-of-the-year fish (especially largemouth) were observed.

Catfish: Blue catfish populations appeared to be down in riverine habitats. However, large populations of blues were observed on the lower end of Lake Dardanelle. Flathead catfish appeared to have a poor spawn, as young-of-the-year flatheads that are usually abundant were few and far between.

Crappie: Electrofishing is not the best gear to collect crappie, especially during late summer months. However, some nice crappie were observed around laydowns situated over deep water. On a side note, biologists have documented good year classes of crappie being produced in years with high flow rates in the past. They will be able to determine just how good reproduction was in 2025 during next year’s crappie netting sample.

Shad: Shad numbers were down, especially in riverine habitats. However, both shad species (gizzards and threadfin) were still present in fair numbers. Shad populations often bounce back quickly, especially in years with low to normal flow rates.

Lake Dardanelle is known for its strong largemouth bass population, along with good quantities of bream and is stocked with crappie. White bass are native to the river and are found in the lake. Catfish are abundant. Smaller topwater lures like a Zara Puppy Spook or a smaller buzzbait would be ideal for black bass. Try minnows for crappie with temps beginning to fall. Redworms and crickets will pull in bream. Surface water temperature as of midweek last week was about 75 degrees, which should have the black bass and panfish getting active.

Lake Hamilton
(updated 3-26-2026) Philip Kastner of Trader Bill’s Outdoors in Little Rock and Hot Springs said Wednesday on “The Wild Side” on KABZ, 103.7 The Buzz, that spring has sprung and the main channel on Lake Hamilton is 65 degrees (as of Wednesday evening, with Lake Ouachita also being at 67 degrees in its main channel) and “it’s just unbelievable this time of year where you’ve got that main channel for those temperatures, which means the creeks are warmer, or colder in the morning obviously, it just depends on when you are fishing. The water color is ridiculously clear, very clear because of the lack of rain. We’re talking about ridiculous amounts of lack of rain for this time of year. The pollen needs to be talked about. If you’re trying to float a worm in the back of pockets, it’s hard to do with red oak noodles. They’re still on the trees right now. You can float a worm wherever you want and be good. But next week, it’s going to be a lot more difficult.

“So, float a worm right now. A Senko in the back of pockets is still the way to catch fish. 

That’s going to be a lot more difficult next week.

“The full moon is April 1, just one week away. All of the white bass are running in most of the major creeks. You’ve just got to be able to get back there and fight the pollen.”

Lake Nimrod
For the Army Corps of Engineers’ real-time lake level and outflow reports from Nimrod Lake, visit the Corps’ Little Rock office website.

No reports.

Lake Ouachita
For the current lake level at Blakely Dam, click here.

(updated 4-9-2026) Capt. Darryl Morris of Family Fishing Trips (501-844-5418) said earlier this week, “Water temperature is in the mid-60s and holding, so obviously the crappie are in full spawn. The black crappie are getting mostly done and the white crappie are just getting started. Don’t become discouraged if your catches are reduced while their priorities are not on eating. You will find some on shallow habitat and some scattered. We have caught crappie on brushpiles as shallow as 2.5 feet deep in 6feet of water. We are also catching scattered crappie moving between beds and brush trolling shallow crankbaits. Be safe everyone.”

(updated 4-9-2026) Todd Gadberry at Mountain Harbor Resort and Spa (870-867-2191/800-832-2276 out-of-state) reports that black bass are excellent. Use a Carolina rig on main lake points near creek mouths, or a floating worm/Zoom Dinger up shallow. 

Walleye are good. Try green soft plastics or Rapala Shad Raps fished in the 10- to 14-foot range.

Stripers are excellent and are being caught on C-10 Redfins and live bait near major creek basins in the western part of the lake. 

Crappie are good. Try a small minnow-colored jig over brush in the 10- to 20-foot range.
For catfish, trotlines and jugs are producing some quality catches in the 15- to 30-foot range.

Water temperature is steady, ranging 58-62 degrees. Water clarity is clearing. The lake level Wednesday was 573.25 feet msl. Call the Mountain Harbor fishing guides (Mike Wurm, 501-622-7717, or Chris Darby, 870-867-7822) for more information.

(updated 3-26-2026) Randy Plyler with Plyler Outdoors Guide Service (870-210-0522) reports that black bass on Lake Ouachita can be caught on Neko rig as well as wacky worms. They also can be caught on Carolina rigs and jigs in 8-20 feet of water. Some have come off of jerkbaits as well as lipless crankbaits. Some bass are on beds. Should get better toward the full moon.

Blue Mountain Lake
For the Army Corps of Engineers’ real-time lake level and outflow reports from Blue Mountain Lake, visit the Corps’ Little Rock office website.

NOTE: Blue Mountain Lake is undergoing a two-phase drawdown proposed by the Army Corps of Engineers to improve aquatic and waterfowl habitat by exposing mudflats for seeding and for critical maintenance on the lake’s intake structure. Phase one began Sept. 2025, lowering the lake to its normal winter pool elevation of 384 feet. The second phase will begin May 1, 2026, with the lake further lowered to 374 feet through Nov. 1, 2026. During the drawdown, water activities will be limited, boat ramps may be affected, and areas around the lake will be seeded.

Japanese millet will be seeded on the mudflats during phase one to improve habitat for waterfowl and other aquatic species. Call 479-947-2372 for more information.

White River/Clarendon Area
For the Army Corps of Engineers’ real-time gauge level and flow from Clarendon, visit the Corps’ Little Rock office website.

Cook’s Lake
(updated 4-9-2026) Wil Hafner at the AGFC’s Cook’s Lake Nature Center (501-404-2321) said Fishing at Cooks Lake is still slow but is picking up and should be getting better by the day. The weather looks great for Friday and Saturday and we encourage people to come and fish during our open hours.
The water temperature is in the low to mid-70s. The water is still dingy but clearing up some. The lake is still very low and cut off from the river, creating stable conditions.
“I would focus on black bass or crappie in and around hollow stumps. For the bass, I would flip a soft plastic like a Beaver, a tube or a lizard in black and blue or black and red flake. For the crappie, I would use minnows or a black/chartreuse or purple/chartreuse plastic with a pink head.”
Cook’s Lake is a 2.5-mile-long oxbow off of the White River, nestled in the heart of the Dale Bumpers White River National Wildlife Refuge near Casscoe in Arkansas County, with black bass, crappie, bream and catfish. This fertile oxbow receives very little fishing pressure due to it being used only for education purposes and youth and mobility-impaired fishing. Cook’s Lake is open to fishing for youths under 16 or mobility-impaired anglers who must possess the AGFC mobility-impaired access permit, and up to two guests (who may also fish), during the specified fishing season. Fish from the 140-foot mobility-impaired accessible dock or launch a boat. Fishing will be allowed only on Fridays and Saturdays through August, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., water level pending. Before launching, please check in at the Nature Center classroom and report back before leaving. For information or unscheduled closures, please call the center at 501-404-2321.

Note: msl is mean sea level; cfs is cubic feet per second.