Arkansas Wildlife Weekly Fishing Report

August 13, 2026

Jim Harris

Managing Editor Arkansas Wildlife Magazine

Jesse Brison, who operates the White River Nation guide service out of the Cotter area, took in some late-night/early-morning fishing on July 30 around the Shipp’s Landing area of the White River, upriver from the confluence of the White and Norfork rivers, and landed this monster rainbow trout. The fish was 32 inches long and weighed 17 pounds, 7 ounces, which was just shy of the state rainbow record of 19 pounds, 1 ounce. The state record has held up since 1981 (Jim Miller of Memphis caught the record rainbow on the White River).

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 8-13-2026) 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 8-13-2026) Mike Winkler of Little Red River Fly Fishing Trips (501-507-3688) said summer “is definitely here in Arkansas! We’re looking at an extended stretch of hot weather, with forecasts calling for temperatures around 100 degrees for the next several days. Rain chances look pretty low, too, so it doesn’t look like we’ll get much of a break from the heat anytime soon.
“With the hot weather, the Southwestern Power Administration has been following a pretty predictable generation pattern. We’ve been seeing two units running around 3 p.m. each day, with generation lasting anywhere from three to six hours. As always, generation schedules are subject to change, so check the USACE Little Rock App before heading out for the latest water releases and any changes.

“Despite the heat wave, the bite on the Little Red River has been good. The best fishing has been early in the morning, so get out early and take advantage of the falling water from the previous night’s generation.
“We’ve had some really good morning flows for several different tactics. Wade-fishing has been good at JFK Park below the dam and at Barnett Access. Both areas have been receiving heavy stockings, so if I were looking to cool off and wet-wade, those are two places I’d start.
“Drift-fishing from the boat has also been solid. The morning flows have been great and the fish have been cooperating. As the temperature rises and those higher morning flows begin to drop, start looking for deeper sections of the river. Fish around moss beds and the plunge pools below the shoals. When the water warms up, the trout will seek out that deeper, cooler water.
“If the bite slows down, try downsizing your flies. Under an indicator, some of the hot flies have been Pheasant Tail Soft Hackles, Guide’s Choice Hare’s Ears, midges, San Juan Worms and eggs. Now is also a great time to break out the streamer rod and pound the banks, either in the morning or afternoon.
“The rising water in the afternoon can be a good time to throw big streamers. Just give the fish some time to acclimate to the increased flows from the two-unit generation. I usually wait about two hours after the increased generation starts before really getting after it. Again, check the USACE Little Rock App before heading out so you know what the river is doing.
“The falling water from the previous night’s generation can also put fish along the banks, giving you another great opportunity to get your streamer fix.
“With the temperature this hot, please be mindful when handling fish. Try not to overplay your trout, keep them in the water as much as possible, and get them released quickly. Also, make sure you know the current regulations. The state has a two-fish limit, and no trout over 14 inches can be harvested on the Little Red River. Check the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission website (agfc.com)  for complete regulations.
“I’ve seen some over-harvesting lately, including fish being kept that were over the 14-inch limit. If you haven’t fished the Little Red in a while, be aware that the rules have changed. Regulations are posted at boat ramps and access points along the river, so take a minute to read them before you start fishing.
“Stay hydrated, get out early, and take advantage of the good morning fishing while we’re in this heat wave. Hope to see you on the river! If you’d like to learn how to fly fish or want to get out for a guided trip, give me a call (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.

No reports.

Lake Maumelle
(updated 8-13-2026) WestRock Landing in Roland (501-658-5598) said water temperature is a hot 89-92 degrees. The lake level has fallen to 9.33 feet below normal pool, and this has left the front launch ramp (the one closest to the store) having only 6 inches of water. The back launch is open with two drop-offs. Boaters are urged to use caution, and four-wheel drive is recommended.

Black bass fishing is fair. Largemouth are biting best in the morning and late in the evening. Anglers report catching them in those early or late-in-the-day hours on top as well as in 2-8 feet of water, and also some others in 15-20 feet. Try a buzzbait. The spotted bass bite is similar to largemouth; they are mixed in as well as in 12-18 feet off rocky points. Try using jigs and drop-shots.

Crappie are fair and reported being found stacked on brush 17-20 feet. Try using jigs, swimbaits and minnows.

There were no reports on bream this week, but lately they’ve been fair on crickets and worms and anywhere from 6-12 feet.

White bass are slow, but anglers using crankbaits might catch some. Catfish also are slow; there were no reports this week, but bream, worms and liver will typically work.

(update 7-30-2025) 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 any time, 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 at 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 8-13-2026) Cotter Trout Dock (870-435-6525) said, “Early morning hours on the river are abundantly blessed with a little bit of chill to counteract the afternoon August heat. Trout catching remains good to very good with sunshine and high heat forecast for the next week; no precipitation is predicted. Bull Shoals Lake is a foot and a half below power pool, offering steady minimum flow over the last week with spikes up to five units (15,000 cfs) in the evening.
“Rainbows have been feisty and hefty, paying most attention to flashy baits; silver/black Rapala CD5s are a good bet. Thomas Buoyant Hammered Spoons (especially blue/silver) continue to cause a stir.  Can’t beat the white PowerBait topping a pink worm if you’re drifting over the shoals. Jigs continue to entice a rainbow or two; find the right color combination for the day and you’ll be busy netting a bunch. The mossy green/peach D2 is winning this week.
“For the best catches of brown trout, try a sculpin drifted near the bottom — they’re definitely hiding out in the deeper holes right now. You’ll never know how good an air-filled nightcrawler works until you try it. Get a worm blower, fill a worm with air, float it out there, watch the action. Repeat.
“Make sure to drink plenty of water during the day. Come visit Cotter; catch some rainbows and enjoy the beauty of our Natural State.” 

Calico Rock Area
(updated 8-13-2026) Dave McCulley, owner of Jenkins Fishing Service in Calico Rock, said, “This week we have seen depths as high as 7 feet or more in the morning and dropping throughout the day with depths as low as 4 feet overnight. With the lower water, we are seeing greater success using artificial lures such as Rapala Countdowns (brown trout or rainbow trout colors), Dynamic J-Specs (glimmer trout and brown trout), Dynamic HD Trout in ghost brown and Thomas Colorado quarter-ounce spoons in nickel/gold. As always, silver inline spinners with Uncommon Bait UV eggs tipped with shrimp worked well.
“This week, the AGFC stocking raft stocked 2,400 rainbows between Calico Rock and Mt. Olive and another 1,600 rainbows between Mt. Olive and Sylamore Creek.” 

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 8-13-2026) Fishing guide Del Colvin at Bull Shoals Lake (815-592-4302), delcolvinfishing.com, said Wednesday that water temp is still lower than in recent weeks, sitting at 83 degrees. The lake level is steady at 659 feet msl. “The bite hasn’t changed much at all. Powerfishing is still slow; you better have wind/clouds/rain/stain. There are some fish up shallow with oxygen levels getting low. If it’s the right conditions, use a Toad Buzz or Whopper Plopper on shallow, windblown bushes on flats. Better get up early and beat the heat. The topwater bite has slowed, but try a Zara Spook or popper-type lure if you find surface activity. Also try small, white regular Tater Shad or a Mooch over treetops. The Jewel Shad Spoon is working. 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. Cut it down. Setting off of 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 32 feet. Lots of fish are holding around this depth. It’s that time of 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 8-13-2026) Southernwalleye Guide Service (501-365-1606) said summertime patterns are still in play. Fishing has been fair this past week. 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 located 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. Fishing slow this past week has been the key to picking up better-size fish. 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.

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 8-13-2026) Crappie 101 Guide Service (870-577-2045) reports not much has changed. Crappie are mainly on brush from 20-30 feet in the creeks. Minnows have been best lately.

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 8-13-2026) Jon Conklin with FishOn Guide Service (479-233-3474) said Beaver Lake has dropped another foot or so and sits at 1,118.56 feet msl. The water is hot, very close to 90 degrees.

“There’s not much to report on. Summer patterns are entrenched and no change is in the near future. 

“Early on the lake or late night is really what you have to do to put fish in the boat. Stripers are the bright spot, with limits common among the guides. Fish are found from Point 5 to the dam.

“Crappie are being caught on the troll. Typical for summer on Beaver.

“That’s about it! It’s brutal out on the lake, so stay hydrated and hope for some fall weather in the coming month, or at least 80s will do. Stay safe and good luck!”

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 8-13-2026) Marsha Robinson at Lake Charles State Park (870-878-6595) said the tough fishing being seen on many lakes in this heat is also the case at Lake Charles, where bass fishing has been poor, while no catches were reported for bream and crappie. Catfish are all that seem interested, and that bite has been good. Use worms or shiny minnows for cats.
The water remains low and the surface water temperature earlier this week was 84 degrees early. The clarity is the usual murky.
The best fishing days according to the “moon times” this month will be Aug. 25-28, so plan accordingly. Good days are predicted for Aug. 17-19, Aug. 22-24 and Aug. 29-31, Marsha said.

Lake Poinsett
(updated 8-13-2026) Jonathan Wagner, superintendent at Lake Poinsett State Park, said, “Lake Poinsett has been slower fishing-wise, but the bream are still biting. No reports for crappie or bass. There have been some reports of catfish caught on lines set out overnight.
“The heat has definitely been a factor negatively impacting anglers as of late, but they are definitely still tossing out lines.
“The Lake Poinsett State Park visitor center is open 8 a.m. -5 p.m. daily for bait sales: minnows, nightcrawlers, redworms, waxworms, dip and dough baits, and more bait and tackle.”

Spring River
(updated 8-13-2026) Mark Crawford with springriverfliesandguides.com (870-955-8300) said in his most recent report that water levels are getting low at 280 cfs (350 cfs is average) and water clarity was 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 careful 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 8-13-2026) Shelley Burr at Cane Creek State Park, (870-628-4714) said fishing has slowed way down because of the heat. “We have had a few fishermen this week, but not many catching any bream, catfish or bass.
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 really early and beat most of that mid-morning-to-late-in-the-day heat.
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. 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, AGFC staff report.

Lake Monticello
(updated 8-13-2026) 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 staff 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. The staff observed a high abundance of threadfin shad, redear sunfish and bluegill earlier this year, and that means 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 8-13-2026) 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 8-13-2026) Mike Siefert at Millwood Lake Guide Service said there was nothing new going on at Millwood except MORE HEAT. “We should be back on the lake in a couple of weeks. 

“My colleagues report: Millwood Lake surface temperature is running 88-92 degrees. Bass and crappie are sluggish in midday heat. The best bite is early and late. Crappie Guru Mackey Harvin did slip out one day recently with a customer for a half-day morning run in an early morning rain, and they boated their limit of crappie by 10 a.m.

“The lake pool is about 5 inches above normal conservation pool, with the tailwater near 226 feet msl and discharge from the dam of only 870 cfs.”

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 8-13-2026) 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 8-13-2026) 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. 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. Casting Alabama rigs has proven to be an effective technique to target these fish, which will strike a lure that closely resembles a fleeing shad. Trolling shallow-running crankbaits against the current, imitating shad, has taken numbers of bass in the late evening. 

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. 

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
No reports.

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 8-13-2026) 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 574.00 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.