Arkansas Wildlife Weekly Fishing Report

February 27, 2025

Jim Harris

Managing Editor Arkansas Wildlife Magazine

Hunter Crawford caught this rainbow trout recently on the Spring River while fishing with his dad, guide Mark Crawford. Mark said the river was up recently from the February rains, making wading tough, but the catching has been excellent when water conditions are good. Heavier flies that get down have been the trick this season, he said. This trout was caught on the fly, and big fish have been biting White Lightnings, a big white fly that imitates baitfish that the Crawfords use under an indicator for large trout and smallmouth bass.

During January and February, Fishing Reports will run every two weeks. In between reports, contact the reporter listed for the lake or stream you plan to fish for the most up-to-date information.

Arkansas River and White River levels are available at: http://water.weather.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfo=lzk

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: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/ar/nwis/current/?type=quality

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)
For the most up-to-date lake level, visit the U.S. Geological Survey’s Lake Conway water level site.

(updated 2-27-2025) Bates Field and Stream (501-470-1846) said that while Lake Conway has been drawn down for renovation, customers have stopped in to head to various spots over the past few weeks. Anglers were going to Lake Atkins for a while, and lately to Brewer Lake and anything close by.
“People were hitting the (Arkansas) river and are waiting now for it to calm back down.” 

Nevertheless, “We’re open,” they say, with all your needed supplies.

The Lake Conway Nursery Pond is a fishing possibility 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 is drawn down for an extensive renovation by the AGFC, the largest lake renovation project in the agency’s history.

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.

(updated 2-27-2025) Mike Winkler of Little Red River Fly Fishing Trips (501-507-3688) said Wednesday, “Right now, Greers Ferry Lake is sitting at 466.07 feet msl, about 4 feet above the winter power pool of 462.04 feet msl. The Army Corps of Engineers is working hard to bring it down, running two generators 24/7 and releasing additional water over the dam’s floodgates. This effort is dropping the lake by about a half-foot per day, meaning we’ve got at least another eight days of this schedule — assuming no more rain. However, another weather system is expected to bring additional rain to the Ozarks, so we’ll have to wait and see how things shake out.
“With this much water moving, the Little Red River is running extremely high. If you’re heading out, make sure you’re comfortable handling a boat in big water—this is not the time for beginners. The river is fishable, but conditions are far from ideal, and you should expect lower catch numbers than usual.

“For streamer fishing, I recommend using an 8-weight rod, and target the banks where fish are holding tight. For deep nymphing, set up 9-12 feet deep with plenty of split shot to get your fly down. If you try shallow nymphing near the banks, fishing 6-8 feet deep along the bank ledges can also be productive.
“There are alternatives to the Little Red during this high water. If you’ve booked a trip with me, I’ve been giving clients the option to head over to the White River—either the upper section near Mountain Home or the lower stretch near Mountain View. Another solid choice is the Norfork River, all within an hour to an hour and a half drive. The fishing might be tough on the Little Red for now, but there are still ways to make the most of your time on the water. If you’re looking for a guided trip, give me a call at 501-507-3688 or visit littleredflyfishingtrips.com for updates and bookings.”

(updated 2-27-2025) Fish ’N Stuff (501-834-5733) in Sherwood said Thursday that time for catching trout is mostly during the morning generation using an eighth-ounce Rooster Tail or a sixteenth-ounce Marabou jig.

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 2-27-2025) Fish ’N Stuff (501-834-5733) in Sherwood said anglers are catching largemouth and spotted bass in 10-12 feet of water on Alabama rigs with a 3.3 swimbait. They are also throwing a diving jerkbait around any kind of shad balls or groups of baitfish they can find. They’re catching smallmouth in about 8 feet of water, throwing mid-diving cranks in a red color or throwing a Carolina rig in about 12 feet of water with a green pumpkin lizard.

Crappie are in about 10 feet of water on brushpiles. Anglers are catching those with either live minnows or Monkey Milk jigs on an eighth-ounce jighead.

Walleye fishing is hit or miss, with the most success coming trolling in the creek arms with deep-diving crankbaits in about 15-20 feet of water.

(updated 2-27-2025) Tommy Cauley of Fishfinder Guide Service (501-940-1318) said the water level at Greers Ferry Lake is at 466.59 feet msl; that’s 4.55 feet above normal pool of 462.04 feet msl. The Southwestern Power Administration and Army Corps of Engineers have been generating 24 hours a day and also have had floodgates open at times. There is a great stain to water — pretty much good catching color all over the lake and rivers. Most species have been on the move with water rising. 

For crappie, try super shallow out to 30 feet. Use jigs, minnows or crankbaits. Fishing straight up and down in pole timber or brushpiles is working great. A lot of walleye have moved up river or close to it after the last big rise in the lake. There is a lot more staging and some prestaging. A bunch have not even come out of deep water; they are scattered all over the lake and rivers. Look on any corner facing upstream and drag minnow or crank baits 45-65 feet. For walleye that are shallow, fish a jighead minnow, jerkbait or big minnow-type deep-diving bait. Some are following under big schools of whites and hybrids; use spoons for those. For the ones just roaming, a spoon is best for vertical fishing them in 10-50 feet.
Hybrid bass and white bass are set up in the main lake and some are roaming schooling on top. For the ones set up, use spoons, inline spinners, grubs and swimbaits in 25-80 feet. They want to settle in about 43 feet, which is magic water depth where they are comfortable here many months out of the year. It has the right temperature and oxygen.

Catfish are biting all over the lake and rivers on usual stuff; try staying around schools of shad. Bream are around 8-30 feet, and crickets, crawlers and inline spinners will work.

You will start running into small groups of five to eight black bass up shallow. Most, though, are out or roaming shallow and schooling. Use Carolina rigs, Wiggle Warts and any flat-sided crankbait, drop-shots, spinner baits and Rat-L-Traps super shallow out to 80 feet. The spinner bait will shine right now shallow or in guts. Also, be mindful of certain trees they will get on in the pole timber! Be safe and wear your life jacket.
Fish Finder Service will be at the 39th Annual Hot Springs Boat, Tackle & RV Show Feb. 28-March 2. Come by and say, “hi.”

Harris Brake Lake
(updated 2-27-2025) Bing Watkins at Harris Brake Lake Resort (501-889-2745) had no new reports. Fishing had been slow before last week’s winter storm. In mid-February, anglers on boats using minnows caught some crappie and a couple of catfish, both around 4 pounds. A few largemouth bass had been caught recently that were OK size, not really big ones. Probably 1-2 pounds each, she said.

Follow more from Harris Brake Lake Resort on its Facebook page.

Lake Overcup
(updated 2-27-2025) John “Catfish” Banks at Overcup Landing off Arkansas Highway 9 said he had no updates at this time, but earlier in February the water level was up 2 feet with a surface temperature around 49 degrees. Water clarity was murky. Bream had not become active yet, but black bass were feeding on the tons of shad in the lake. Catfish were doing well on jugs. Crappie were doing well on minnows in 10-11 feet of water. There were several limits caught in early February.

Lake Maumelle
(update 2-27-2025) Crappie guide Eric Watts of Natural State Fishing (501-548-8990) said crappie are scattered and following shad all over Lake Maumelle in 20-35 feet of water. Water temperature is low- to mid-40s. Bobby Garland Baby Shad and Slab Hunt’R plastics are the best choice! Water level is approximately 8.5 feet below normal pool and falling; Central Arkansas Water is lowering the lake to about 10 feet for repair work at the dam. Ramps at WestRock Landing are still accessible. Proceed with caution.

(updated 2-27-2025) WestRock Landing in Roland (501-658-5598) said they didn’t have much to report this week, as fishing has been slow. There have not been many bites going around “but with this warmer weather, I have a feeling things will turn around any day now, most likely this weekend.” Water temperature is ranging 47-52 degrees. The lake is 7.25 feet low, drawn down while Central Arkansas Water addresses an infrastructure problem at the dam.

Before all the deep freeze of last week, though, largemouth bass had been biting well 2-5 feet with others being found deeper and scattered around brush anywhere from 10-20 feet. Try points and drop-offs and use topwater, spinnerbaits, jigs, jerkbait, Chatterbait or crankbaits. Spotted bass were good, scattered on drop-offs at 10-20 feet and biting on jerkbaits and jigs. Crappie were good in 20-30 feet in the channel on jigs.

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 2-27-2025) Ray Hudson at River Valley Marina (501-517-1250) had no reports this week. Before last week’s drop below freezing, the crappie were biting well in 8-10 feet of water on minnows. Black bass were active at the same depth and biting well on crankbaits or a jig-and-pig. 

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 2-27-2024) Fish ’N Stuff (501-834-5733) said the black bass in the river are “pretty finicky” right now. They are in 8-12 feet, both spotted bass and largemouth bass. Best success is coming at the ends of jetties throwing an Alabama rig with a 3.3 size swimbait. As the water is getting warmer, if you can get the bass into the live grass areas, you should have some success throwing a white three-eighths-ounce spinnerbait. Also, flipping a half-ounce black and blue football jig should work.

Crappie are in about 6-8 feet of water around any kind of wood or in slight current. Anglers are catching them on sixteenth-ounce jigheads with a black/chartreuse jig.

Peckerwood Lake
(updated 2-27-2025) Donna Mulherin at Herman’s Landing (501-626-6899) said the lake has reopened for fishing. It’s typically good for crappie early, and bass and catfish will begin to hit in coming weeks.

White River
(updated 2-27-2025) Cotter Trout Dock (870-435-6525) said, “It feels like spring; warmer weather is here at least for a while and the fishing is strong on our rivers here in the Arkansas Ozarks.
“Bull Shoals Lake has just about reached the desired power pool level, sitting at 658.5 feet msl on Wednesday. The Army Corps of Engineers and the Southwestern Power Administration have been varying outflows fairly significantly over the past week, from about one unit (3,000 cfs) to over four units (12,000 cfs) at times, so be very careful and pay attention to the river conditions. Trout can adjust to water level changes without too much trouble, although it might take a little time, so come with an arsenal.
“The brown trout have been biting mid-sized to oversized sculpins and minnows, and love chasing No. 5 or No. 7 Rapala Countdowns. The gold/black has been very successful on this water. Late winter sees a great catch of browns — some even biting on a wriggling redworm.

“The rainbows are responding really well to jigs: one-eighth-ounce white, olive/ginger or peachy, but several large rainbows have snatched on sculpins, too. Also, there’s a new Rooster Tail in town. A “Super” Rooster … Tail. Waiting for some feedback.

“Be prepared for low to very low temperatures in the morning and, more often than not, sun-warmed afternoons. The trout are calling! Come over to the White River for some great fishing.”

(updated 2-27-2025) Dave McCulley, owner of Jenkins Fishing Service in Calico Rock, said the mild weather this week and good river conditions have made for pleasant fishing. With low and clear water, quarter-ounce Thompson Colorado Spoons in nickel/gold and Little Cleo Spoons in gold, gold/fire stripe (and, on cloudy days, silver) worked well, resulting in some nice limits of rainbows. When the water has some dinginess, silver inline spinners with Uncommon Baits Neo Pink ultraviolet eggs tipped with shrimp worked best for rainbow trout. Other effective methods for both rainbow trout and brown trout are jigs (try different ones until finding what the trout like that day), Rapala Countdowns (CD5 or CD7 in rainbow trout or black/silver) and Little Cleo Spoons in gold, gold/fire stripe and (on cloudy days, silver) worked well.
Dave says, “We will be at the Hot Springs Boat, Tackle and RV show from Feb. 28 through March 2. If you are in the area, stop by and say, ‘Hi.’

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 2-27-2025) Fishing guide Del Colvin at Bull Shoals Lake (815-592-4302) said the bass, walleye, and crappie guys have gone from snow and negative temps to 70s — unbelievable. It has had a negative effect on the fishing. “Ain’t gonna lie, lots of guys have been struggling. Oh, it’s that magical transition time. Moss is starting to float up in the backs of some creeks.

Lake level on Wednesday was 658 feet msl. The water temperature dropped to 44 degrees last week “and today I marked some 50s even in the clear water. I expect that you are going to have to continue to hit them on the head until it stabilizes.
“There was a noticeable shad kill up the lake and pockets of dying shad up high in the column. Even down around the dam area. A lot of the shad went deep, 60-80 feet, while some are spread out throughout the column. Powerfishing shallow should pop; the smallmouth are definitely up there roaming shallow. The red crawfish spawn typically occurs during this time frame. We could use a warm rain and stained creeks. Wishful thinking.
“A jerkbait will catch a few in the clear water. Target transition banks, chunk rock, steeper banks and small ledges close to deep water. In the wind! A SPRO Crawler, Wiggle Wart, Red Craw or green variations seem to be a bit better for me if we get some wind. The crank bite will slow without it. There are always fish to be caught on a jig. Try a little slower presentation. Once again, warm, little wind, sunny look around points, drop-offs or ledges, piles — you’re looking anywhere from 20-40 feet, and look way shallower (5-10 feet) in stain or cloud cover.
“The video game has changed. Target any bait you can find up high near the surface and closer to the shore. I have seen some large schools capitalizing on these if you can find this scenario and be there at the right time.
“It’s still winter; most fish are still hovering wanting to move up. They are moving around and every day is different and every creek will be a little different. Shouldn’t be long. As always, graph time can pay off this time of year. If you are targeting shad eaters, a regular Tater Shad has been working and a jerkbait around those high swimming shad or dying shad balls early or late in the day when shad are up in the water column. They are being finicky if they aren’t actively feeding. It’s changing by the minute, so have fun, be safe and ‘Fish the conditions.’”

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

(updated 2-27-2025) Southernwalleye Guide Service (501-365-1606) says walleye are scattered along the creek channels following the shad. “I am catching some around trees in 40-70 feet of water where the creek passes close to a steep banks or a point halfway to two-thirds back of creeks. Mostly fishing the longer creek arms. Staying close to trees with spoons and jigging Raps. I have also been catching a few on Rapala Rippin’ Raps, jerkbaits and jig-and-minnow pitched up in 8 feet and jigged slowly back out to the boat in 35 feet. Lure colors have been white or shad pattern. This second pattern seems to be working best at low light periods.”

(updated 2-27-2025) Crappie 101 Guide Service (870-577-2045) says crappie are definitely in the creeks moving in and out from this crazy weather. The bite has gotten tougher in certain areas the last few days due to some shad dying. Deeper brush seems to work a little better when you can find them around 25-30 feet range. An eighth-ounce jig with Small Fry Baits like the one I use from Tater Baits in Purple Monkey color and the new Aurora Blue is working. Patience is key as long as they show interest. If they don’t, move on to the next!”

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

No reports.

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

(updated 2-27-2025) Jon Conklin with FishOn Guide Service (479-233-3474) said Beaver Lake is sitting around 1,120.0 feet msl. “Well, we have been on the roller coaster with temps and the weather as of late. Water temps are in the lower 40s for the most part. The river arms dropped to 34 degrees a couple of days ago and now are on a major rebound. As of yesterday, the temps up in the White around Blue Spring was at 44 degrees. 

Before the arctic blast, we were catching some walleye up in the White arm. They were just getting started on their annual river run to spawn. The major cold-water drop put the brakes on the bite. Now with the record warm days, I believe things will perk up quickly. 

“Crappie are all over the place — some on brush anywhere from 10-30 feet and also suspended in some pretty big schools roaming near the main river channels. 

Stripers are very scattered, and your best bet is to look for shad. On that point, I am hearing of some shad kill, which is expected with a sudden major cold drop. That will slow the striper bite down a bit as they fill up on the dying shad.
“White bass have been caught near Neil’s Bluff and on up toward Twin Bridges.
“There will be a quick uptick in fishing; get on out there and be safe!” 

Visit Jon’s Facebook page for the latest updates, FishOn Guide Service Goshen AR.

Beaver Tailwater
(updated 2-27-2025) Guide Austin Kennedy (479-244-0039) said, “WOW, am I ready for this cold weather to take a hike?! With today warming up nicely and the highs for the next eight days, fishing should be great! The floodgates are closed and the Army Corps of Engineers has been flowing almost every day, which is nice to see. We found drifting Pautzke Fire Worms along with Fire Minnows are doing really well. If you are able to find some good slack water, Fire Bait and spoons are pulling nice numbers as well.
“The walleye spawn is still progressing and with the higher forecast temperature, this should spark a pretty good bite. Trolling has been pretty productive; also working crankbaits has put a few in the boat as well. Try to focus your baits in the range of 15 feet of water while trolling.
“Remember, until the water temperatures come up, these fish will be sluggish. You will need to adjust accordingly. On a side note, I would like to thank the AGFC game wardens for making sure the boaters and fisherman are being safe as we start to get warmer temperatures. This is a great time to review the AGFC handbook, to check for legislative updates and/or laws. Hope you all are able to get out and enjoy the days to come!”

“Remember to follow our fishing Facebook page (Busch Mountain Fishing Guide Service) for updates.”

Lake Fayetteville
(updated 2-27-2025) Lake Fayetteville Boat Dock (479-444-3476) was frozen for a few days but the last two days (Wednesday and Thursday) they had fishermen out on the lake catching some crappie and bass. There is a little size to both species caught, but quantity is not what they’d like. “They’re all keepers, but just not very many,” they say. “The bass were in the 2-3 pounds range, but maybe just one caught by a group. They’re not biting as well as we’d like. But they are awake!”

Anglers are using jigs for crappie, while bass are requiring the anglers to throw about everything they have. Swimbaits and jig-and-pig were working best.

Water temperature is 48 degrees and the clarity is stained with water running off into the lake; before, it was crystal clear.

Lake Charles
(updated 2-20-2025) Shelly Jeffrey at Lake Charles State Park (870-878-6595) said that the lake clarity was murky as usual and the surface water temperature was 47.3 degrees. The water level is high.
Crappie are good, but there have been no hints of bait used. Minnows and jigs tend to be best, with minnows strong now. A 3.42-pound, 18.25-inch crappie was caught on Feb. 8 by Anthony Farmer. With the good weather that particular day, there were lots of boats on the water, Shelly noted.
There have been no other reports of late. Best fishing based on “moon times” is coming up Feb. 25 through March 3. 

Lake Poinsett
(updated 2-27-2025) Jonathan Wagner at Lake Poinsett State Park had no new reports, but most recently had noted numerous anglers are out catching crappie and bream mostly. A few that have stopped by the State Park’s Visitor Center have mentioned that with the colder temps and added fishing pressure, the crappie were moving to the deeper waters near the dam according to their LiveScopes. Crappie were hitting on minnows and a variety of jigs.

“Reports for the other main sport fish in the lake have been few, but there are still bream and bass being caught; no real mention of catfish, though. We see a lot of boats drive by the Visitor Center and hear a lot are putting in at the AGFC boat ramp at the dam. The limit on crappie is 15 fish (all sizes encouraged to be harvested to help prevent stunting) and for black bass you can keep 10 fish with one being larger than 16 inches. 

“So, if the cold doesn’t bother you, come out to Lake Poinsett to test your luck and skill! As always, the State Park Visitor Center sells live bait (currently nightcrawlers, redworms and minnows) and is open with winter hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays and 1-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday.”

Spring River
(updated 2-20-2025) Mark Crawford with springriverfliesandguides.com (870-955-8300) said that except for the blizzard conditions this week, fishing has remained the same. He says he’s seen great catching when conditions allow.
Last week, water levels were at 480 cfs and water clarity was clearing. Rain two weeks ago had the river up. River levels have been up all winter, making for tougher wading at times. The river bottom is very slick!

“The catching has been excellent when water conditions are good. Heavier flies that get down have been the trick this season. Big Woollies and streamers can work well. Sink tips can be useful with a fast sink rate. Long leaders can work well also, high-sticking the woollies. The big fish lately have been on White Lightnings on the fly. It’s a big white fly that we use under an indicator for big trout and smallies that imitate baitfish. Plenty of bugs hatching, but tough with the high-water levels for any dry fly action. 

“On spinning tackle, D2 jigs are the ticket for chasing the smallmouth through the winter, with white being the hottest. Fish them below a float or fast like a jerkbait. They really work! We have them in the shop.

Winter is the time to chase big trout, smallies and spotted bass. The Spring River always produces huge rainbow trout that come out in the cold months. Smallmouth bass move up through the winter looking for warmer water, too. Just got to layer up to stay warm and make sure to stay dry!

“Keep an eye on the blog (springriverfliesandguides.com) for the latest conditions on the Spring River!

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.

(updated 2-27-2025) The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Bass Fishing Team had no new reports with cold conditions through much of February. Look for updates soon.

Cane Creek Lake
(updated 2-27-2025) Shelley Burr at Cane Creek State Park, (870-628-4714) said the catching may be slow according to some anglers they spoke with, but they’ve seen a few customers coming in buying a good numbers (quarter-pound to half-pound) of minnows to fish for crappie. Fishing was ongoing off the bank at the spillway side of the lake on Sunday, and on Tuesday there were a couple of anglers fishing off the main fishing dock for crappie with minnows. Two others were at the spillway after trying the dock on Tuesday.

Lake Monticello
(updated 2-27-2025) Anglers are reminded that if they venture out for some fishing on Lake Monticello while the lake continues to refill after being renovated, that all fish caught must be released immediately.
The Hunger Run Access is open to boat traffic. Reports are good of anglers catching nice black bass now.

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 2-27-2025) Mike Siefert at Millwood Lake Guide Service said Wednesday that conversations he’s had at the ramp recently indicated a commercial fisherman on Millwood Lake caught an over-14-pounds-and-change largemouth in his nets while he was fishing for buffalo in the past couple of weeks. A day or two later, he had another largemouth bass in his nets that went over 10 pounds. Reportedly, both bass were successfully released back in the lake with no injuries.
Mike said, “We have not spoken to the commercial fisherman yet personally to validate the conversation. If true, the 14-pounds-and-something-ounces could potentially be a lake record still alive and swimming in Millwood right now.”

Millwood Lake elevation is about 15 inches above normal pool at 260.42 feet msl and falling; Millwood Lake Dam is releasing about 17,000 cfs, and the tailwater is near 242.5 feet and falling.
Mike urges extreme caution in navigation on Little River. Debris fields, broken timber and logs are still moving down Little River in heavy current. Check the most recent lake level of Millwood Lake on the guide service’s website linked above, or the Army Corps of Engineers website, for updated gate release changes and inflow rates with rising and falling lake levels. 

Surface temperature continues fluctuating, ranging 39 degrees early to 47 degrees later in the day this week along Little River. Clarity along Little River for the past week diminished from increased discharge at Millwood Dam. Moderate to heavy stain is found in most locations, muddy in some areas further up Little River being heaviest, with river clarity ranging 5-8 inches visibility depending on location. Clarity and visibility of oxbows will vary widely from heavy stained to fair visibility from 10-15 inches, and Mike observed fair visibility in a few wind and current protected areas like McGuire Oxbow up to 18 inches clarity.

NOTE: The Millwood State Park MARINA will reopen Saturday, March 1. The Millwood State Park IS OPEN for camping, and the State Park Office can be reached at 870-898-2800 for availability or additional information. USACE Campgrounds ARE OPEN for camping. USACE parks/campgrounds current Status, information and reservations may be made by calling (877) 444-6777 or the Millwood Tri-Lakes office at (870) 898-3343.

Mike offered these specifics on fishing:
* Largemouth bass began a slow improvement this week with the warmer conditions, depending on location, but has been random at best. What is fairly good one day, the next day feels like winter, making it tough and slow. Bass are not yet super shallow all day. It’s almost like they will run up into some flats for sunning 15-30 minutes, then get spooky and leave, perhaps due to falling lake pool. The largemouth prime activity and cycles have been best midday and afternoon. Several male bass have been found roaming flats from 2-6 feet deep near old bedding areas, sunning in shallow water for temperature or searching out new bedding sites. As of late, those roaming male largemouths have been slow to strike on 1-knocker Rat-L-Traps in Millwood Magic, Toledo Gold or chrome/blue back. The quarter-ounce Rat-L-Traps that work are randomly, near flats with drop structures or deep creek bends. Throw brown/orange or red chrome crawfish, red shad/gold back or natural craw colors, and the smaller to mid-size Trap when you need to work shallow. Spin Traps with a gold tail spinner will also work through the dead lily pad stems flawlessly, and will connect with roaming bass.
The male largemouths we found roaming shallow over the last week were around 2-2.5 pounds and moving in and out of 3- to 6-feet-deep flats with stumps present near creek channel drops from 4-9 feet deep, near vertical structure. They have been slow to fair on a red or chartreuse/white Chatterbait, a Brazalo Spinnerbait in Spot Remover or chartreuse/white, or a 6- to 8-inch and magnum-sized lizard. Warmer days with bright skies continue to be the best daily conditions. The best locations are near vertical structure and deeper drops with 3-8 feet deep flats in close proximity.

* The white bass continue roaming and staging all along Little River, and have been heavily schooled up at various creek dumps into Little River for several weeks now. A few nice-sized schools of whites were found from White Cliffs campground all the way up Little River to Brown’s Slough, but we have yet to speak with anyone who has connected with any large whites at Wilton yet. Temperature is not quite there yet for the whites to begin their annual spawning run, but it’s coming soon.

Hammered Cordell Chrome Spoons with a red bucktail, Rocket Shads, Bill Lewis MR-6 Crankbaits and Spin Traps in chrome/blue and threadfin shad colors will get a reaction once you find them staging. “We talked to two guys at White Cliffs, and they said they got into a school of whites up river at the creek mouth before you get to McGuire Lake. We have not yet found the whites all the way up Little River near Patterson Shoals yet; we think the river is not warm enough yet for their spawning run, but it’s getting close. Upriver above Wilton Landing is still in the mid- to upper 30 degrees, and we need solid 50s to make them really fire up and run in large schools that far.”
* Crappie continue to be on again, off again with the warmer temperatures, and are stacked up in planted brushpiles from 8-12 feet deep. A few nice 2-pound crappie have been hitting jigs over the past couple of weeks.
* Catfish are fair some days, great on other days with the increase of river current. They’ve been best on limb lines over the past week, set from 8-12 feet deep, biting well with redworms, cut Buffalo, chicken hearts and livers. Yo-yos and limblines have been improving for cats from 4-8 pounds over the past few weeks.

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.

No reports.

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

No reports. 

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.

White Oak Lake Area
No reports.

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

(updated 2-27-2025) Shane Goodner, owner of Catch’em All Guide Service, reports that water temperature below the dam has risen to 47 degrees and should climb into the low 50s this week due to the warm temperatures forecasted for the area. Entergy has been running round-the-clock generation because of the flooding experienced in the area, and the tailrace is clearing itself of debris and muddy water. The majority of January and February have been lost to fishing due to flooding and snow and ice accumulations. Entergy has no choice but to schedule high-generation flows below area dams to rid the lakes of excess water to maintain levels. This process has been the norm on Lake Catherine for weeks because of the winter weather. Both lakes Catherine and Hamilton were lowered 3 feet for the winter drawdown, but refilling should begin next week. 

Muddy conditions and fast flows have been the norm the past week below Carpenter Dam with very little fishing or boating taking place. The AGFC stocked quality rainbow trout in Lake Catherine in November and December and those fish thrived in the cold temperatures. January was a big month for trout stocking with 9,700 fish placed in the lake. February is the most heavily stocked month for rainbow trout with 12,000 fish scheduled to be released. As soon as the tailrace clears and the runoff is passed through the system, very good opportunities will present themselves for catching good numbers of trout. 

Bank fishermen can use PowerBaits in yellow or white fished just off the bottom with a marshmallow floater and expect consistent action in the main channel. Waxworms or mealworms will also work well presented in the same manner. Spin-fishermen should concentrate on areas of current where rocks and sandbars are present and cast Rooster Tails in silver or brown. Trout often hide in these areas to stay out of the main current and to ambush prey. Fly-fishermen can wade to these same areas and cast micro-jigs in black and white under a strike indicator. San Juan Worms in pink offer another quality lure to tempt finicky trout. 

Thousands of threadfin shad have been swept into the Carpenter Dam tailrace from Lake Hamilton this year. The freezing temperatures stunned these baitfish which are drawn through the turbines during generation and float over the shallow water to be preyed upon by area game fish. This is one reason these trout make such wonderful table fare due to the superior diet created by this process repeated over and over during the winter months. 

The walleye spawn is underway in the tailrace, but no one has been able to fish due to the unsafe flows from the dam. The smaller males have migrated into the area first to prepare the beds for the larger females. As soon as reports come in, we’ll have more information on location and bait choice. 

Anyone visiting Carpenter Dam park is advised to follow all park rules and regulations and always obey law enforcement officers that are constantly monitoring the area. Wearing a life jacket is a must when navigating the tailrace and could save your life in an accident.

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

(updated 2-27-2025) Seth Boone, superintendent at Lake Dardanelle State Park (479-890-7474), had no new fishing reports this week, but reported most recently that Lake Dardanelle had been frigid lately. Fish were slow to bite but the bream were biting on live bait, such as worms. Bass had been difficult, but crankbaits and spinnerbaits off rock points were successful. Catfish were more active toward the evening hours on stink bait in deeper waters. Crappie fishermen had success before all the bad weather this month using minnows at tributary confluence points.

Lake Hamilton
(updated 2-27-2025) Capt. Darryl Morris of Family Fishing Trips (501-844-5418) said he has been fishing both lakes Ouachita and Hamilton, and says, “Crappie season is upon us. They are in transition from a winter, deep pattern to their normal springtime pattern. (Wednesday) I caught crappie as deep as 24 feet when the morning water temperature was still 45 degrees. As the day warmed, so did the water. By noon the crappie were holding over brushpiles 15-foot deep. 

“Watch your water temperature and keep checking the northwestern, sunny corners of spawning coves.”

(updated 2-27-2025) 2024 ended the way it began on Lake Hamilton, with a double-digit bass being caught at the lake. Lin Burnett hoisted an 11.14-pound black bass on Dec. 16. The fish measured 25.5 inches long. He said a fin clip was retained from the bass for genetic study by the AGFC. The year began with a couple of double-digit catches as well.

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.

(updated 2-27-2025) Carter Cove Bait-N-More (479-272-4025) had no report this week. Carter Cove has a Facebook page, and the email address is cartercovebaitnmore@gmail.com, with updates and photos. 

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

(updated 2-27-2025) Capt. Darryl Morris of Family Fishing Trips (501-844-5418) said he has been fishing both lakes Ouachita and Hamilton, and says, “Crappie season is upon us. They are in transition from a winter, deep pattern to their normal springtime pattern. (Wednesday) I caught crappie as deep as 24 feet when the morning water temperature was still 45 degrees. As the day warmed, so did the water. By noon the crappie were holding over brushpiles 15-foot deep. 

“Watch your water temperature and keep checking the northwestern, sunny corners of spawning coves.”

(updated 2-27-2026) Philip Kastner of Trader Bill’s Outdoors in Little Rock and Hot Springs noted Tuesday night on “The Wild Side” on KABZ, 103.7 The Buzz, that Lake Ouachita is a foot above full pool and water “is barely in the buckbrush, but it’s there. (Tuesday) morning at dawn the lake temp was 48 degrees and this afternoon it was 52 degrees, and it’s only going to get warmer. I’m seeing a slugfest this weekend.” Kastner was referring to a stop this coming weekend on the Trader Bill’s bass tournament schedule on Lake Ouachita, where weigh-in Saturday will be at the AGFC boat ramp at Brady Mountain. He doesn’t expect a lot of 5-bass stringers over 20 pounds but there should be some. Anglers will be hitting the backs of coves in areas of flats.

This runs concurrently with one of the biggest boat shows in the region, the annual Hot Springs Boat, Tackle and RV Show at Bank OZK Arena and the Convention Center Friday through Sunday.

(updated 2-20-2025) Todd Gadberry at Mountain Harbor Resort and Spa (870-867-2191/800-832-2276 out-of-state) reports that black bass are fair to good. These fish are still schooling up in the mouths of major creek channels. Try a crawfish-colored jig in 20-40 feet of water or an Alabama rig. No reports on walleye, bream or catfish. Stripers are still very good and biting on live bait and small minnow-like jigs on the western end of the lake. Crappie are good and biting over the tops of brush in the 20- to 40-foot range.
Earlier this week the water temperature was ranging 44-50 degrees and the water clarity was clearing. The lake level was 579.46 feet msl. Call the Mountain Harbor fishing guides (Mike Wurm, 501-622-7717, or Chris Darby, 870-867-7822) for more information.

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.

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.

Horseshoe Lake
(updated 2-27-2025) Kent Williams of Oxbow Guide Service (870-278-7978) said had no new reports, but in early February he said crappie were biting but were a little sluggish. Baits needed to be moved slowly to entice a bite. Look for crappie in the deeper areas of the lake. “The fish we caught were biting a red-and-white hand-tied jig.”

He had no reports from bass, bream or catfish. The water temperature at Horseshoe in early February was 49 degrees and the clarity was dingy. The lake level remained a little low.

Cook’s Lake
(updated 2-27-2025) The AGFC’s Wil Hafner at Cook’s Lake Nature Center (501-404-2321) said, “Although we are headed into March, as I mentioned last week Cooks Lake will have a delayed opening this year because we are dealing with flood water.
“I sure am ready to start catching a few myself!” He says Cook’s Lake will reopen once flood waters recede and allow the lake to be accessible for boat and dock anglers. “Last year was a weird year and we are hoping these high-water conditions will reset the lake and create great opportunities for spring and summer months.”

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. This fertile oxbow receives very little fishing pressure due to 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 March 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.