Arkansas Wildlife Weekly Fishing Report

August 6, 2026

Jim Harris

Managing Editor Arkansas Wildlife Magazine

Gabe Hickey from Arkansas landed this nice smallmouth bass while fishing with guide Austin Kennedy, who works the Beaver Lake tailwater in Northwest 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 8-6-2026) AGFC staff in Mayflower note that while Lake Conway is drawn down for renovation, the Lake Conway Nursery Pond provides a nice fishing opportunity for area anglers. 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. Read more here, or check out what was written in the most recent issue of Arkansas Wildlife magazine (or read online) for an in-depth look at the new weir and dam construction. 

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: On Feb. 1, 2026, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission changed trout limits for the Little Red River below Greers Ferry Dam. Anglers may keep two trout daily; trout 14 inches or longer must be released immediately. This rule is in effect until further notice.

(updated 7-30-2026) Mike Winkler of Little Red River Fly Fishing Trips (501-507-3688) said this week has definitely been a hot one here in Arkansas. Temperatures have been in the upper 90s most of the week, with a couple of days hitting the 100-degree mark. Add in the excessive heat warnings and heat indexes hovering around 110 degrees, and “it’s been about as hot as it gets.
“The good news is it looks like we’re finally going to get a little break from the heat this weekend. The forecast is calling for slightly cooler temperatures along with a chance of scattered showers, which will be a welcome change.

“With all this hot weather, power demand has increased, and Southwestern Power Administration has been running two units for four to eight hours on most days, usually starting sometime between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. As always, be sure to check the USACE Little Rock app or SWPA’s projected generation schedule before heading to the river so you know what the water is doing.

“Now, let’s talk fishing:
“The bite has been really good lately all up and down the Little Red River. Both wade-fishing and drift-fishing from a boat have been producing plenty of trout.

If you’re looking to wade-fish, it’s hard to beat JFK Park below the dam or Barnett Access, better known to us locals as Swinging Bridge. Both areas have been receiving heavy stockings of rainbow trout, and the action has been excellent.
“Drift-fishing has also been solid throughout the river. Between SWPA’s consistent generation schedule and the AGFC stocking the public boat ramps along with the secondary chutes between ramps located on private property, there are fish spread throughout the system.
“The best bite has been early in the morning while temperatures are still cool and the river is falling from the previous evening’s generation. On these hot days, please be mindful when handling trout. Try not to overplay the fish, keep them in the water as much as possible, and release them quickly so they’ll have the best chance of survival.

“Hot flies under an indicator have been Pheasant Tail Soft Hackles, Guide’s Choice Hare’s Ear and Midges.
“Focus on areas with steady current as the water falls out, along with shoals and the plunge pools below them. Don’t overlook the deeper runs around moss beds either. On these hot summer days, trout are holding in the deeper, cooler water. If the bite slows down, try downsizing your flies.
“For those who enjoy throwing big streamers, now is a great time to dust off the streamer rod and tie on your favorite articulated pattern. With SWPA generating two units most afternoons, the rising water has been producing some excellent streamer fishing in the evenings. Early mornings on the falling water have been just as productive for anglers fishing from a boat.
“Stay hydrated, get an early start before the heat sets in, and remember to handle fish with care while practicing catch and release. I hope to see you on the river. Tight lines! If you’d like to book a guided trip, give me a call at 501-507-3688 or visit https://littleredflyfishingtrips.com/”

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. 

No reports.

Harris Brake Lake
(updated 8-6-2026) Bing Watkins at Harris Brake Lake Resort (501-889-2745) said catfishing has been good at night around the shoreline, with some big catfish caught and some, she’s heard from one angler, breaking the line a few times. “He says they were big catfish,” Bing said. Others reported to her that they caught some decent fish in the 7- and 8-pound range.

Not many people are fishing in the daytime, other than the early risers. Most of the angling is coming at night.

The bream has been good around the big island, also at night and early morning before the sun gets up. 

The water level is very low, she said. Anglers may find it hard to get around in boats, but you can put a boat in. Be careful, she urges.

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

Lake Overcup
NOTICE: AGFC employees and contractors will be conducting herbicide applications at Lake Overcup in Conway County this summer, preventing the use of the lake’s water for irrigation by lakeside landowners until Oct. 1.
Application of the EPA-approved aquatic herbicides should take roughly two weeks, and multiple applications will take place throughout the summer. The treatment causes no harm to wildlife, people or aquatic life, but water drawn from the lake could kill gardens, flowerbeds and lawns if used on neighboring lands. By federal law, these herbicides have up to a 120-day irrigation restriction after application. The AGFC asks adjacent landowners to NOT irrigate for lawn or garden use with water from Lake Overcup until October.
The use of aquatic herbicides is necessary to control the current problems with nonnative invasive aquatic plants that can infest Arkansas lakes, restricting access to boathouses, boat ramps and fishing locations. If left unchecked, many of these invasive plants can outcompete and replace native vegetation.
For more information, please contact the AGFC Fisheries Office in Mayflower at 833-338-3636.

(updated 7-30-2026) John “Catfish” Banks at Overcup Landing (501-354-9007) off Arkansas Highway 9 (501-354-9007) said in his most recent report that water level is about normal and the clarity is good. Crappie were being caught in 8-10 feet of water, but mostly at night. Bass were slow, but anglers are catching some decent fish. Catfish were being caught on trotlines and jugs using bream and nightcrawlers. 

Lake Maumelle
(updated 7-30-2026) WestRock Landing in Roland (501-658-5598) said the lake is a very warm 88-90 degrees and the lake level slips ever-so-lower, now 8.6 feet below normal pool. They recommend that boaters putting their boats in at the new, open ramps have four-wheel drive, and make sure you trim your motor.

The fishing is in a stable, summertime pattern now with the hot air temps and the hot surface water temperature, and bream are back being the best target (a good bite), likely with the full moon. 

Black bass remain fair, with best fishing early in the morning or late in the day. Some largemouth bass are being caught on top and in 2-8 feet of water, with some others being caught in 15-20 feet. Try jighead worms, drop-shots, topwater baits and soft plastics. Spotted bass (aka Kentucky bass) are being found with the largemouths as well as by themselves in 12-18 feet off rocky points. Jigs and drop-shots are best for spots.

The crappie bite is fair. They reportedly are stacked at 8, 10 and 12 feet depth chasing shad. Also, there are reports of crappie being found stacked on brush in 17-20 feet. Jigs, swimbaits and minnows are all working. 

Bream have been biting well, and they’re seen bedded on brush. Look anywhere from 6-12 feet and use the usual crickets or redworms.

White bass are slow. Crankbaits will be best for them. No catfish catches were reported this week, but if you try for them, use small live bream, worms or chicken liver.

(update 7-23-2025) Crappie guide Eric Watts of Natural State Fishing (501-548-8990) said that as of this week, Lake Maumelle is approximately 8 feet below normal pool. The lake is accessible with extreme caution. Crappie are on brush in 15-18 feet of water, and they’re active in the early mornings before the heat of the day sets in. Casting micro jigs and minnows under slip corks are the two most effective techniques. The lake must be navigated with caution as there are many shallow areas and flooded timber in inconspicuous places.
Visit www.nsfguide.com or call 501-548-8990 to schedule your guided crappie trip today!

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 8-6-2026) Ray Hudson at River Valley Marina (501-517-1250) said that the water is normal and clear. Bass are still biting early and late and being caught on topwater and spinnerbait, as well as some crankbait catches. Most crappie that have been caught have been at about 8 feet, but there have not been a lot of catches. One regular angler gets about 7-8 crappie at a time, “but overall (the crappie) are slow,” Ray said. “That’s typical now.”
Catfish are being caught on hotdogs, with some around 4-5 pounds. “Good eatin’ size,” Ray adds.

He’s not talked to anyone who has been bream fishing, but he says that just about anytime, anglers will be able to catch some bream there.

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 7-30-2026) Despite the intense heat of Sunday at midday, a handful of anglers were out trying their hand catching catfish both near the Big Dam Bridge on the rocks as well as downstream at the Murray Park boat access. They reported a little success catching small to medium-sized catfish early on stink bait.

The Little Rock pool was low this past weekend with little current.  By midweek of this week, the flow at both Murray Lock and Dam and Terry Lock and Dam was holding around 20,000 cfs. If that holds through the weekend, and with temps falling somewhat, the fishing around the jetties and piers from a boat should pick up. Try the grass areas in the backwaters with a topwater early; the bass may be ready to respond. Bream should be biting in some spots near the east bank below the main Little Rock bridges. Catfish will hit lines down past the marina below downtown at night.

Peckerwood Lake
(updated 8-6-2026) Donna Mulherin at Herman’s Landing (501-626-6899) said very little is going on at Peckerwood with the fishing. Anglers are still catching catfish, she said, and there are some bream being caught, though she says they are probably not very big now “but they’re still catching them.” The bass are OK. “We’ve had a few (anglers) trolling (for crappie) but I don’t think they’ve done any good.”

She says the water is dropping out so quickly now, as farmers are using the lake water for irrigation. “We had rain the other day but it’s not going to bring it up.”

She said stumps aren’t showing and you can still get a boat in, but she advises caution.

White River
NOTE: Trout limits for the White River below Bull Shoals dam were changed in February by the AGFC and effective until further notice. From the dam to the Norfork Access boat ramp, anglers may keep two rainbow trout daily; all trout 14 inches or longer must be released immediately. From the Norfork Access boat ramp to Arkansas Highway 58 (at Guion), anglers may keep two trout of any species, only one may be longer than 14 inches. Brook trout must be 14 inches or longer to keep; brown, cutthroat and tiger trout must be 24 inches or longer to keep.

Cotter Area
(updated 8-6-2026) Cotter Trout Dock (870-435-6525) said Bull Shoals Lake is at 659.56 feet msl, about 1.5 feet below the established goal of 661 feet msl. Releases from the dam satisfy power demands and have been nominal, sticking to their recent pattern of minimum flows during the late evening and throughout the morning hours, followed by a quick rise to almost five units (15,000 cfs) in the mid- to late afternoon.
“The brown trout bite is a little tricky right now. Patience wins out and is required to get the browns’ attention. Soft-shell crawdads are a favorite, in addition to the familiar sculpin. Consistent water levels have allowed the trout to settle down into a normal feeding routine, so early morning and early evening are the best times for reliable catches.
“Float your bait just above the bottom — best to keep it in or near the river channel during low-water generation. The changes in water level will naturally necessitate revamping your bait and placement; cast a live worm or a dandy San Juan Fly near the bank as the water rises.

“Lose the shrimp for now. Seems the rainbows prefer yellow and orange PowerBait sans shrimp this week. Chartreuse baits are causing a stir, too; look for Rooster Tails with chartreuse bodies, Vibrax spinners with chartreuse bells, and chartreuse worms. “Keep angling naturally in the Natural State; we’ll see you on the river.” 

Calico Rock Area
(updated 8-6-2026) Dave McCulley, owner of Jenkins Fishing Service in Calico Rock, said, “Other than on Sunday, we have seen water levels rising in the mornings with dingy water and cresting around mid-morning at about 7 feet. Our guides have been running several miles upriver where the water level has started to drop and water is cleaner, and then fishing back toward Calico Rock. Drift-fishing with Uncommon Baits UV Neo Pink eggs and raw shrimp has worked well for catching rainbows. Fishing near the banks with Rapala Countdown CD7 rainbow trout or brown trout colors or similar lures worked well for larger rainbows and browns. Afternoon fishing has been good.  

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 8-6-2026) Fishing guide Del Colvin at Bull Shoals Lake (815-592-4302), delcolvinfishing.com, said Wednesday that water temp took a drop down to 82 degrees. The lake level has dropped about a foot to 659 feet msl. The powerfishing is slow; you better have wind/clouds/rain/stain. There are some fish up shallow with oxygen levels getting low. “I have noticed some floaters this week; this is normal. If it’s the right conditions, use a (Whopper) Plopper, spinnerbait or Chatterbait on shallow, windblown bushes on flats. You also better get up early and beat the heat. The topwater bite has slowed; try a Spook or popper-type lure if you find surface activity. Don’t be fooled by the gar.

“Try a small, white regular Tater shad or a Mooch over treetops. The Jewel Shad Spoon is working; you can bomb that thing on a spinning rod. Take your favorite minnow to look at them. I’m using one-eighth-ounce.”
“If the conditions are postfrontal, flat water, high pressure, blue birds, time to take a swim. But if you decide to grind it out, it will get tough. Lots of guys are going at night to beat the heat. I will slow down, downsize and get off the bank, and look at deep ledges and brushpiles, and bomb casts with lighter fluorocarbon line. You can try a drop-shot with a Robo in suspended schools. The Jewel five-eighths-ounce football jig in green pumpkin orange, PB&J or Bass Whacker will work off deep points. Traditional bass anglers are dragging the long points and ledges with big red worms or craw baits in brushpiles, over timber tops and on bluffs and bluff ends. There is a thermocline down around 30 feet. Lots of fish are holding around this depth. It’s that time of the year to keep moving, hitting as many spots as possible. 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 8-6-2026) Southernwalleye Guide Service (501-365-1606) said summertime patterns are holding. Walleye are holding on flatter points with deep water on one side. Look for fish on the tips of long points as well as the sides close to the sharper drop-off. “Walleye we’re seeing next to brushpiles seem to be situated on the offshore side of the brushpiles where deep water is closer. Main lake and secondary points have been producing fish during the day.”

Fish shallower in the early mornings and on cloudy days in 30-32 feet of water, and deeper in 35-40 feet of water if there is little or no wind or cloud cover. This is working: cast jigging spoons in white or chrome, blue spoons, or jigging Rapalas in blue and chrome, in half-ounce to three-quarter-ounce sizes, into 27 feet of water and work it back out into 35 feet. Also, drop-shotting live crawlers around the offshore side of brushpiles in 30-35 feet is working well.

Bottom-bouncing orange, chartreuse or gold No. 3 Colorado deep cup blades, or brass or gold willow leaf bladed spinner rigs and crawlers around the sides and tips of points close to channel swings all are producing a lot of short fish as well as some good 18- to 23-inch walleyes.

If trolling, try shad-style and small banana-style baits like No. 7 Flicker Shads or No. 9 Flicker Minnow in natural colors. Trolling in 35-40 feet of water at speeds of 1.8 to 2.2 mph seems to work best. 

(updated 8-6-2026) Crappie 101 Guide Service (870-577-2045) reports that the crappie have been pretty scattered mainly in the creeks on brush, sometimes really deep in it. Fish have gotten really finicky at times, so moving is key. One-eighth-ounce  jigs with Small Fry bait like Tater Baits Crown Royale 101 over the fish work sometimes, and minnows will work as well.

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

No reports.

Norfork Tailwater
Note: On Feb. 1, 2026, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission changed trout limits for Norfork tailwater. Anglers in the Norfork tailwater may keep two rainbow trout daily; all trout 14 inches or longer must be released immediately.

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

(updated 8-6-2026) Jon Conklin with FishOn Guide Service (479-233-3474) said Beaver Lake has dropped nearly a foot again. It sits at 1,1119.50 feet msl, close to 2 feet below normal level. Water, as expected, is very warm — mid-80s.
“Dog days are here ! Smack dab in the summer heat. Summer patterns in full force. It’s simple: Early or late is your best chance at putting fish in the boat.
“Stripers have been very good. Look from Point 5 down to the dam. Fish have been average in size, with the bigger ones hitting 15 pounds.
“Crappie are suspended. Trolling is the game right now. I have been doing well on Lucas Cranks trolled at 2.2 mph with 60 feet of line out.
“Bass, again, early and late. Fish the points in 20- to 25-foot depth range.

“Catfish at night have been good. Trotlines and jugs are working. Bluegill are always able and willing.
“It’s hot, as you know. Stay hydrated, as dehydration can sneak up fast. Get out early, have fun and get off the lake before 11 a.m., and you should find some fish! Good luck and 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 changed trout limits for the White River below Bull Shoals Dam, effective Feb. 1, 2026, due to significant loss of stocking population at two Arkansas hatcheries in 2025. Anglers may keep two trout daily; all trout 14 inches or longer must be released immediately. This rule is in effect until further notice.

(updated 8-6-2026) Guide Austin Kennedy (479-244-0039) says, “Fishing on the Beaver tailwater has improved slightly over the past week. Trout fishing is showing signs of getting better, but overall numbers remain below what we’re used to seeing. Anglers are finding success by drifting Pautzke Fire Bait, Fire Worms and nightcrawlers under a float during lower water. Casting small spoons, inline spinners and marabou jigs has also produced fish, especially during periods of reduced generation. Patience has been key, as the bite has been coming in short feeding windows.
“Walleye continue to be a bright spot in the tailwater. Both jigging soft plastics along current seams and trolling crankbaits have been productive, particularly during periods of moving water. Focus on deeper runs, transitions and rocky structure where fish are staging.
”The Corps of Engineers has been generating water primarily during the mid-afternoon, so anglers should keep a close eye on the generation schedule and plan accordingly. Water levels can rise quickly, changing fish location and access.
“Spotted bass and bluegill continue to provide steady action between Beaver town and Holiday Island. Bass are responding well to medium-diving crankbaits worked around rocky banks and current breaks. Bluegill are being caught by slowly fishing a Carolina rig tipped with a nightcrawler around deeper pools, eddies and slower-moving water.

“Water temperature remains favorable, and the tailwater continues to offer opportunities for multiple species throughout the day. With cooler weather gradually approaching, we’re hopeful trout numbers will continue improving as we move toward fall and into the winter months. As always, pay attention to generation schedules, practice good fish handling and enjoy everything the Beaver tailwater has to offer.”

Visit Austin’s new website, www.buschmountainfishing.net, for more information.

Lake Charles
(updated 7-30-2026) Marsha Robinson at Lake Charles State Park (870-878-6595) said fishing this past week was focused on bass and catfish. Bass catches were fair, with anglers having success throwing baits around brush. Shiny minnows were working best, though limblines that were set for catfish also picked up some bass, she said. Catfish bites were good on those trotlines. Worms and shiny minnows were the baits of choice. The lake water temperature earlier this week was a hot 88.3 degrees. The lake remains low.
The best fishing days according to the “moon times” this month will be Aug. 25-28, so plan accordingly. Good days include today and Aug. 10, as well as Aug. 17-19, Aug. 22-24 and Aug. 29-31, Marsha said.

Lake Poinsett
(updated 8-6-2026) Jonathan Wagner, superintendent at Lake Poinsett State Park, in his most recent report said bream had been biting well. Many bream were 6 inches or bigger. These were found slightly off shore, 20-30 feet.

The Lake Poinsett State Park Bait Shop has crickets and nightcrawlers again, with more minnows on the way. Wagner says minnows are scheduled to be stocked Friday, July 17. Redworms and other baits are also in stock.

Spring River
(updated 7-23-2026) Mark Crawford with springriverfliesandguides.com (870-955-8300) said water levels are getting low at 280 cfs (350 cfs is average) and water clarity has been clear. “Plenty of rain around, just not here. The water remains cold in this heat. Fish early and take a break in the heat of the day. With the low, clear conditions, hopper droppers with nymph, Y2K or worm droppers have been a blast. A pure dry-fly setup can work early or late depending on hatches of caddis and mayflies. Sunny days are good for the bugs and trout, but tie-on Woolly Buggers for the smallies. Brown and black have been hot lately. On most days, work them slow and deep, but they do turn on and chase on those magical days.

“Good streamer water with the low conditions. You’ve got to work it to keep from hanging on the bottom. On those dreary overcast days, working a streamer off the banks can make crazy things happen. If it’s really hot, bounce the hopper dropper off the bank for a fun time with rock bass and sun perch on the dropper and a smallie hit on the hopper. Lots of action on that rig.

“The canoe hatch is on Saturdays, so it gets busy on the river; through the week and on Sundays are the days to fish on the Spring River; most days are very quiet. Jim Hinkle Spring River State Fish Hatchery is stocking really nice rainbows at the campgrounds and public accesses — a blast on the fly and not real picky most days. Great time to learn how to catch trout. Be safe wading out there; the rocks are always slick! A wading staff can really help!”

Crawford’s website includes regular updates on his blog along with videos and photos. Check it out.

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 7-30-2026) Shelley Burr at Cane Creek State Park, (870-628-4714) said anglers are big after the bream at Cane Creek this week. She’s basing that on all the crickets they have been selling at the visitor center.
Cane Creek is an enjoyable body of water to paddle, and fishing from a kayak can be a blast. Of course, now that it’s really hot, get out early and beat most of that mid-morning-to-late-in-the-day heat. Maybe this lower temperature forecast for the weekend will get some paddlers/anglers out to try it.
Late last year, the AGFC began treating certain areas of the lake for Cuban bulrush, an invasive aquatic vegetation, according to Ryan Mozisek of the AGFC’s Monticello district office. 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 8-6-2026) This one-time great trophy bass destination when it first opened in the 1990s appears headed back to that designation again, based on what anglers have been catching in the past few months since regulations were eased on bass and crappie. Two bass over 10 pounds were pulled out during the spring, one qualifying for the AGFC’s Legacy Lunker program before the March 31 cutoff. And AGFC biologists say the lake is trending in the right direction with ample forage stocked after its renovation. Catch rates in spring sampling exceeded both the regional average and the 2025 numbers. The survey produced bass in the 6-pound range, but AGFC Biologist Ryan Mozisekand crew continue to track and value reports from local anglers who have documented catches of 8 pounds and larger.
The lake’s forage base is booming, according to Mozisek. The staff observed a high abundance of threadfin shad, redear sunfish and bluegill. They say that more forage is more fuel for growth for the sport fish like bass and crappie.
The AGFC approved 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 15 crappie, but only 7 crappie may be longer than 12 inches. All other fish creel limits follow state regulations for the species.

Lake Chicot
(updated 8-6-2026) 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 8-6-2026) Mike Siefert at Millwood Lake Guide Service said they’re still around but the guide service will be on summer vacation into August “trying to beat this southwest Arkansas heat wave! Our contacts and colleagues on Millwood are keeping us informed as to the tournaments, conditions, activity levels and action on the lake while we are away. A 10-POUND LARGEMOUTH BASS was caught during a bass tournament last week around July 4 by a local angler in this heat! Unreal. We are told the bass was released healthy back into Millwood after the weigh-in at Yarborough Landing.”

Millwood Lake elevation as of Thursday was slightly above normal pool and steady; about 259.4 feet msl; Millwood Lake Dam was releasing 861 cfs, and tailwater level was near 226 feet and stable. 

Siefert offered these specifics on the fishing:
* Largemouth bass remain active with best activity levels early morning and late afternoon. Many bass we are seeing are roaming the flats overnight, and early morning hours are best. Creek bend sections of the creek channels continue holding fish on stumps from 5-12 feet of depth. Reactions to a variety of topwater baits continue improving at daybreak, such as on Heddon Spit’N Images, Jumbo Pop R’s in Bone color, Brazalo WeeWhacker, Bushwhacker, Horny Toads, Shad Assassins and jerkbaits. Many black bass continue roaming and pulling up onto the flats in lily pad stands at daybreak, chasing plastic frogs and Bass Assassin jerkbaits in lily pad stands and emergent vegetation. 

Between daylight and 11 a.m., Bill Lewis Lures’ ATV Crankbait in Bluegill, Tennessee Shad and Pro Green Gizzard, and the MR-6 Crankbait in Millwood Magic, Silverado, Bluegill and Citrus Shad in off-colored water clarity, are drawing hits and reactions along in creek channel swings on stumps.

Later in the midday hours, they pull out to the next drop zone and structure, 10-20 feet out from the shallow flats of the oxbows. Power Worms in 7 and 10 inches in June bug, blue fleck, black and black grape continue working in Little River and in the oxbows. 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. 

Brazalo Custom 501 Jigs in PB&J, Blue Oyster and Gilly, with various craw bug trailers and swim bait tail-thumper trailer colors, are getting reactions on stumps, laydowns and standing cypress trees in the creek channels. River bugs, Berkley Pit Bosses, Power Hawgs and Bunker Hawgs are working along Little River in grass. Brush Hogs or Baby Hogs are getting good reactions, and best colors with the increased water stain have been pumpkinseed/chartreuse, black, blue-fleck and Grunge.

In the oxbows, and along dropping structure into the 9- to 10-foot range, Bass Assassin Shads continue drawing good reactions, and Chico’s Red Ear, pumpkinseed/chartreuse tail and Mama’s 14K in the 5-inch shad sizes continue working best around vegetation and lily pads. They’re best Texas-rigged on small light-wire Owner hooks and will draw random reactions in heavy vegetation, or on stumps, and near cypress tree knees in the 6-8 feet depth.

Brazalo Lures’ 501 tandem willow blade spinnerbaits continue working well and gaining good reactions for several weeks from black bass in creek channels. They should continue getting reactions in the oxbows on points near stumps, lily pads and deeper creek channel outer bends. Some days, using curly tail grub trailer works better than straight tail, with best colors over the past couple of weeks being white (around shad spawn areas), Arkansas River Shad, Spot Remover and Millwood Mayhem Bream in the creek channels. A slow, stop and go retrieve will draw random reactions if you are in fairly clear to moderate stained water, moving deeper in 4-9 feet of depth.
* White bass continue on the move as well all along Little River, and are roaming deeper washouts. Large schools have been located between Jack’s Isle and Mud Lake and react fairly well to jigging Cordell Hammered Spoons, with red or white bucktails, from 15-18 feet deep on structure and circle-back eddies.
* Crappie improved drastically over the past week or so with the reduction in current in Little River and the water clarity improving. Best action, we were told, was on minnows and jigs from 8-14 feet depth in brush and stake beds, planted bamboo limbs and cypress tops.
* Catfish improved again this week on trotlines and limblines set from 10-18 feet deep along outer bends of the river. The lines are taking decent blues and channel cats up to 8 pounds using frozen catalpa worms, King’s Punch Bait, cut shad or buffalo, and chicken hearts and gizzards.
* Millwood State Park continues reporting bream biting fairly well near Millwood State Park campground and off the dock up Little River at Jack’s Isle. Campers at Millwood State Park recently told us last week they were having good luck with crickets, bread and redworms off the bank for goggle eye and bluegills.

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

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

(updated 8-6-2026) Philip Kastner of Trader Bill’s Outdoors in Little Rock and Hot Springs noted on the weekly “Wild Side Show” on KABZ-FM, 103.7 The Buzz on Tuesday that DeGray is among the area big lakes that is getting well below normal level for this time of year, sitting about 3.5 feet below normal pool (Lake Ouachita is in the same boat, he said). For both lakes, he said the lake water temperature is in the mid to upper 80s and the water color is very clear. The moon is on “the backside” now after the full moon of about a week ago, and we’ll have a new moon Aug. 12. The moss in Ouachita and DeGray is “very good,” he said. There is good matting in the guts of pockets holding good fish. Swim a worm Texas-rigged on the deep side of moss in 15-18 feet of water, or a wobble head. 

He notes that bullfrog season is in full swing on the grass or moss. FOr the fishing, a Plopper is also good now.

(updated 7-30-2026) John Duncan of YoYo Guide Service (870-942-6291 or yoyoguideservice@gmail.com) at Iron Mountain Marina says, “Hello, Fisher-People. Well, I have seen the surface water temperature hit 90 degrees twice this year, once before the Fourth and then the storms cooled the water down to high 80s. Now we have the 90s temperatures again. Man, does it affect the bite. Water level is 404.6 feet msl with a slight fall.

“So, for the crappie, if you are fishing brushpiles, it’s simple: Slow down and downsize. Downsizing jigs to the one-sixty-fourth-ounce is even practical. I like to use a brighter color in clear water. Monkey Milk is always a good color for clear water for me. Lots of work and very precise fishing. Hair jigs, Crappie Magnets, small minnows.

“The other options are chasing roamers, long-lining and trolling crankbaits. All of these can be productive; pick your poison. Paddle boards increase distance from the boat, and that helps. 

“This time of year, the water has little temperature difference throughout the lake. I prefer to fish from Arlie Moore to Point Cedar.
“Hybrids and white bass are showing signs of surfacing in the mornings and evenings. As the water heats up, so do the bass. I am told that pulling Alabama rigs is producing some good bites. I prefer the larger size A-rigs. I like the color of blue and white for my jigs.”

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.

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.

White Oak Lake Area

No reports.

Lake Atkins
(updated 6-25-2025) Lucky Landing as a bait shop and restaurant is not open, but the AGFC’s access to Lake Atkins and fishing pier remain open to all anglers, according to the AGFC’s Frank Leone, supervisor of the Russellville district.

Frank’s advice to anglers fishing Lake Atkins in early summer depends on their species of choice. “For bluegill anglers, I would advise them to use crickets and move around until they find a school/bed where they can catch multiple fish. For bass anglers, I’d advise throwing a topwater bait (frog, popper, buzzbait) early in the day and transitioning to flipping soft plastics around the cypress trees as the sun gets higher. Crappie anglers can likely find fish suspended in the dead timber and will catch them on jigs and or minnows.”

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

(updated 8-6-2026) Shane Goodner, owner of Catch’em All Guide Service, reports that water temperature below the dam is 65 degrees with clear conditions in the tailrace. Entergy is running 10-hour generation periods starting in the late afternoon. Weekend and recreational releases have been reinstated over the past month as rainfall amounts erased the drought conditions of early summer. 

Excessive heat has kept many anglers off the lake and shortened fish feeding times, which is a normal occurrence on Lake Catherine in the late summertime. The only productive fishing below the dam involves catching white bass and hybrid bass that remain in the area after the yearly spawn. Some topwater activity has been observed below the dam in the early morning as bass chase threadfin shad schools. An effective technique is casting Alabama rigs; these fish will strike a lure that closely resembles a fleeing shad. Bass have also been taken in the late evening trolling shallow-running crankbaits, imitating shad, against the current. 

The rainbow trout season has been over since early May due to the lack of numbers stocked statewide caused by problems at two major trout hatcheries last year. Hopefully, this problem will not repeat itself, as fall stocking is scheduled to begin in early November. 

Always remember to wear a life jacket when on the water and remember to follow all lake and park regulations. Trash cans are limited in the area so pick up after yourself and be aware of rising lake levels when the turbines are running.   

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

No reports.

Lake Hamilton
(updated 6-25-2026) Philip Kastner of Trader Bill’s Outdoors in Little Rock and Hot Springs said this week on “The Wild Side” on KABZ, 103.7 The Buzz, that area lakes are clear and the water temperature is in the low 80s. The moon is building to a full moon on June 29. Topwater bite is very good early morning and late in the day. Night fishing is good. In the Hot Springs area lakes now, you’ll have success fishing a black spider in the guts of pockets and soft plastic worms in the brush. For night anglers and night boat drivers: Kastner urges dimming your sonar and GPS screens. They can blind you and hurt your night vision.

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 8-6-2026) Mountain Harbor Resort and Spa (870-867-2191/800-832-2276 out-of-state) reports that black bass are still slow. Try a big plastic worm near brush or finesse a drop-shot rig on main lake and secondary points.

Walleye are very good. Try a drop-shot rig or a Texas-rigged jig with a nightcrawler and fish it near brush when the sun gets up for best results. 

Stripers are good and still being caught on live bait near main-lake humps in the eastern part of the lake.

Bream are still good on crickets and worms. Try deep structure in the 20-foot range, give or take a foot or so.

No reports on crappie or catfish.

Water temperature is a steady 80-86 degrees. Water clarity is clear. Lake level continues a slight fall, now at 5745.46 feet msl. Call the Mountain Harbor fishing guides (Mike Wurm, 501-622-7717, or Chris Darby, 870-867-7822) for more information.

(updated 8-6-2026) Philip Kastner of Trader Bill’s Outdoors in Little Rock and Hot Springs noted on the weekly “Wild Side Show” on KABZ-FM, 103.7 The Buzz on Tuesday that Lake Ouachita is like DeGray and other area lakes in that it’s a fallen a bit below normal pool with no real rain of late; Ouachita is about 3.3 feet below normal pool.

For both of those lakes, he said the lake water temperature is in the mid to upper 80s and the water color is very clear. The moon is on “the backside” now after the full moon of about a week ago, and we’ll have a new moon Aug. 12. The moss in Ouachita and DeGray is “very good,” he said. There is good matting in the guts of pockets holding good fish. Swim a worm Texas-rigged on the deep side of moss in 15-18 feet of water, or a wobble head. 

He notes that bullfrog season is in full swing on the grass or moss. For the fishing, a Whopper Plopper-style bait is also good now.

(updated 7-30-2026) Capt. Darryl Morris of Family Fishing Trips (501-844-5418) said, “We are still trolling crankbaits and catching a variety of bass.”
Darryl also wanted to let folks know he’ll be off the water for the month of August. “See ya in September getting ready for fall crappie season.” \

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.

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