Lake conditions have remained unchanged for most of the summer. Still very clear and mild with water temps only in low to mid 80’s. Fishing has been much slower than previous years in July and Aug mainly due to the abundance of shad, minnows and crystal clear water. We are however seeing the resourceful and determined fishermen still finding some good numbers of fish.
Water Level – 658.50 (Normal is 661.00)
Water Temp – 83 – 85 degrees
Water is Clear
Black Bass – Fair to Good on Jigs, top water lures and 10″ plastic worms. Also using shaky head rigs and small crank baits off the points and shallow structure. We have seen several 5 to 6 lb bass come in this year. Also, key in on the Bluegill. The monster bass and walleye are feeding on the huge number of bluegill that now populate the lake. (Some people also refer to these fish as Perch or Brim).
Walleye – Fair on bottom bouncing night crawlers. Also fair when using large crank baits off the sand drops. Colors to try are firetiger and chrome & purple. Best numbers are still coming in from the Arkansas line up to Mincey creek.
Crappie – Fair to Good on live minnows around heavy structure and private docks. These fish are going to find the shade with the sunny days and ultra clear water. Don’t expect them to be on the banks of coves right now. Decent numbers also being caught on “smoke & glitter” swimming minnows. Also, try an 1/8th oz spoon when you find suspended fish.
