Horsehead Lake set for fall drawdown

Aug. 29, 2018

HARMONY – The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission will lower the water level of Horsehead Lake beginning Sept. 4. The drawdown will lower the lake’s water level by 3 to 5 feet and should last until mid-winter.

Drawdowns are an important fishery management tool because they congregate baitfish, enabling sportfish to feed upon them easily. This increases growth rates of sportfish such as bass and crappie. 

Drawdowns also allow landowners to complete AGFC-approved land-use projects around the lakeshore. Landowners with lots adjacent to AGFC property are reminded that you must have an approved permit application (found in the AGFC Land Use Policy at www.agfc.com/landuse) before beginning construction of any new structures on AGFC property. During the drawdown, no vehicles or heavy machinery are allowed on the lake bottom.
In the future, drawdowns will be conducted at Horsehead Lake on a five-year rotation, with the next drawdown scheduled for 2023.

If you have questions or wish to obtain a printed copy of the AGFC Land Use Policy, please call the Russellville Regional Office at 1-877-967-7577 and ask to speak with Frank Leone.