Fly Fishing Reports for Kansas, Arkansas, Colorado, Missouri

January 19, 2012 - White River - Submitted by Berry Brothers Guides - JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 1/19/2012

During the past week, we have had colder temperatures and windy conditions (to include lake wind advisories). The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam fell five tenths of a foot to rest at six tenths of a foot below power pool of 654.00 feet. This is forty one and six tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake fell one tenth of a foot to rest at three tenths of a foot below power pool or sixteen and three tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake fell two tenths of a foot to rest at four tenths of a foot below power pool or ten feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we have had erratic generation during the week with significant wadable water over the three day weekend. Norfork Lake fell three tenths of a foot to rest at three tenths of a foot below power pool of 552.00 feet or twenty eight and three tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, we have had light generation with wadable water every day. We should see more wadable water on both rivers in the coming weeks.

The Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam will close from November 1, 2011 to January 31, 2012 to accommodate the brown trout spawn. The State Park from the bottom of the Catch and Release section down to the wing wall will be seasonal brown trout Catch and Release for the same period

There were several days where we had generation in excess of 20,000 cubic feet per second (CFS) on the White. The best technique for this type of water is to fish brightly colored San Juan worms (cerise, hot fluorescent pink and red) and egg patterns (orange and peach). The trick is to get the flies down. To sink these flies you must use big split shot (AAA or larger) and long leader/tippet combinations (ten to twelve feet). To help detect takes use a brightly colored strike indicator near the top of the leader. One way to increase strikes is to use a small nymph as a dropper below the worm or egg. Effective flies for droppers have been sowbugs, Y2Ks, zebra midges or copper Johns.

Another technique that has been particularly effective on the higher water has been to bang the bank with big streamers. Effective patterns have been Zoo Cougars, Sex Dungeons and Butt Monkeys. The key to success has been to use a heavy sink tip (250 grain or heavier). To deliver these heavy flies on heavy sink tip lines, you must use at least an eight weight rod. This is hard work but can produce some excellent trout.

Last weekend we had substantial periods of wadable water on the White River. The fishing was good at popular spots like Wildcat shoals and Rim Shoals. The hot flies were red zebra midges (size sixteen), copper Johns and San Juan worms (red). There were some midges hatching and Dan’s turkey tail emerger was the hot fly.

Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are low and clear. The water temperature is near the point where the Smallmouth will become less active. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly.

The Norfork has fished well but has been crowded. If you can, fish during the week to avoid the crowds. On lower water the hot flies have been olive scuds (size 18), Dan’s turkey tail emerger and zebra midges (black and red). There was a good blue wing olive hatch on some afternoons. The key to success was a parachute Adams in size 22 and a perfect drag free drift. Soft hackles like the partridge and orange or the green butt have accounted for a lot of fish. On higher flows, the best technique has been to drift brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns (pink and orange).

Dry Run Creek has been productive. The hot flies have been sowbugs and various colored San Juan worms (worm brown, red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise). Small orange or peach eggs have been very effective. While you are there take a tour of the adjacent National Fish Hatchery. It is fascinating and educational. Be sure and remove your waders before entering to prevent the spread of aquatic diseases.

There have been numerous reports of huge rainbows being caught on the Spring River. The water level on the river is low and lightly stained. This is a great place to wade fish. Canoe season is over and we have much less traffic on stream. Be sure to wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been Dam Three Access. The hot flies have been brown woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise and hot pink San Juan worms and Y2Ks.

Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo.

White River Trout Unlimited has scheduled a Cabin Fever Fund-Raiser for Saturday, February 25th here in Mountain Home. This party will be a great way to celebrate impending spring weather and raise money for the chapter’s many projects! Visit their website for more details. www.whiterivertu.com.

October 20, 2011 - White River - Submitted by Berry Brothers Guides - JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 10/22/2011

During the past week, we have a rain event, much cooler temperatures, mostly sunny skies and very windy conditions (to include lake wind advisories). The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam fell seven tenths of a foot to rest at one and seven tenths feet below power pool of 654.00 feet. This is forty two and seven tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake remained steady at power pool or sixteen feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake fell eight tenths of a foot to rest at two and three tenths feet below power pool or eleven and nine tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we have had much lower levels of generation around the clock. There has been some wadable water. Norfork Lake fell seven tenths of a foot to rest at one foot below power pool of 552.00 feet or twenty nine feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, we have had light generation and reliable periods of wadable water every day. All of the lakes on the White River system are at or below power pool. We can expect lower flows and more wadable water.

The dissolved oxygen level has dropped below the state minimum standard of six parts per million on the White and Norfork Rivers. At Bull Shoals and Norfork Dams, the vacuum breakers have been blocked open to allow more oxygen to mix with the water. Trout stocking has been eliminated on the upper Norfork River (above the Ackerman Access). Those fish have been diverted to the lower river. Stocking has also been eliminated on the upper White River (above White Hole) with those fish diverted to the lower White River. If you are fishing on the upper river of either the White or Norfork River, be very careful when handling trout. Land them quickly and revive them fully before releasing them.

The big story has been several windows of wadable water on the White River. The best place to fish was Rim Shoals. The hot flies were pink San Juan worms with copper Johns and red zebra midges in size fourteen or sixteen as droppers. Y2Ks were also responsible for some nice fish. Wildcat Shoals is also hot. Here again the hot flies have been pink worms and green or red copper Johns.

A technique that has been effective has been to bang the bank with large articulated streamers. The hot flies have been Zoo Cougars, Sex Dungeons and Butt Monkeys. The trick to presenting these flies is to use a long fast sinking sink tip (250 grain or heavier). Don’t use a leader. Attach the fly to the line with a three foot 2X fluorocarbon tippet to prevent the fly from riding up. You will need a stiff eight rod to cast this rig. This is hard work but can be very rewarding.

Grasshopper season is still with us. They provide us with some of the best and most reliable dry fly fishing of the year. These are large tempting morsels that can tempt big fish. You need a nine foot 2X leader and a stiff rod (a six weight would be perfect). The trick is to bang the bank and imitate the action of a grasshopper that has fallen into the water and is struggling. Many takes occur as soon as the fly hits the water. The most effective patterns are Dave’s hoppers or big western foam hoppers (both in tan). To increase your catch, use a small nymph as a dropper. Effective nymphs would be pheasant tails or copper Johns. The most effective section of the river for this technique has been the section from Rim Shoals to Buffalo Shoals.

Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are very low and gin clear. Navigation on Crooked Creek is difficult with the low water. Several anglers have reported success with Clouser minnows and grass hoppers. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly.

On the Norfork River, we have had some significant periods of wadable water and the fishing has been spectacular. On lower water the hot flies have been red copper Johns, scuds, red zebra midges (size 20 and smaller), and Dan’s turkey tail emerger. Soft hackles like the partridge and orange or the green butt have accounted for a lot of fish. On higher flows the best technique has been to drift brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns (pink and orange).

Dry Run Creek has fished well. The hot flies have been sowbugs and various colored San Juan worms (worm brown, red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise). The big browns have started moving into the creek and many nice browns are being caught. When photographing the trout, keep them in the water until you are ready to take the picture. Handle them carefully with wet hands and fully revive them before release.

The water level on the Spring River is low and lightly stained. This is a great place to wade fish. Canoe season is finally over and we should have much less traffic on stream. Be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been Dam Three Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise and hot pink San Juan worms and Y2Ks.

September 29, 2011 - Courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation -TROUT PARKSBennett Spring State Park:

57 degrees, clear; the spring level is near normal; Zone 1 and 2 best lures: John Deere colored mini jigs, ginger colored and brown colored bead head Cracklebacks, salmon and brown colored, moss colored, brown and yellow colored marabou jigs, rainbow colored and blue colored Rooster Tails, shrimp colored, easter tri-colored and Jimi Hendrix colored glo balls, red colored and copper colored brassies; Zone 3 best lures: white colored and yellow colored Power Baits, white colored worms, and salmon eggs. September fishing hours are 7:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. October fishing hours are 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (Report made on 9/25/2011)

Maramec Spring Park:

57 degrees, normal, fishing is slow; the water is clear; use very light weight line and tackle; dough and putty baits are producing good numbers when fished free floating; throughout the spring branch feather jigs and trout worms in black/yellow, green, white, and pink are producing good numbers of fish; fish are holding in deep holes and below the waterfalls, target these areas for best success. (Report made on 9/29/2011)

Montauk State Park:

58 degrees, the river level is normal; the water is clear; fishing is good on most baits; brown, white, and yellow scented dough and putty baits are working well, as are flies, Rooster Tails and jigs, black and yellow, white, and olive colors are working well. September fishing hours are 7:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. October fishing hours are 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. For up-to-date stream conditions check http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?07064440 (Report made on 9/28/2011)

Roaring River State Park:

58 degrees, the water is a little off color; normal to a little high; fishing has been very good early in the day, late in the evening and in shady spots during the day; dry fly fishing is excellent right now; cheese yellow, white fluorescent, orange and brown colors in plastic eggs and worms working well; black, brown, olive and white spinners working well; small crankbaits are working well; marabou and micro jigs are good; olive, white, black/yellow and tan are good; in Zone 3: nightcrawlers, minnows and corn, white, orange or fluorescent yellow Power Bait paste is working well. (Report made on 9/29/2011)

September 22, 2011 - Courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation -TROUT PARKS

Bennett Spring State Park: 57 degrees, clear; the spring level is near normal; Zone 1 and 2 best lures: John Deere colored mini jigs, ginger colored and brown colored bead head Cracklebacks, salmon and brown colored, moss colored, brown and yellow colored marabou jigs, rainbow colored and blue colored Rooster Tails, shrimp colored, easter tri-colored and Jimi Hendrix colored glo balls, red colored and copper colored brassies; Zone 3 best lures: white colored and yellow colored Power Baits, white colored worms, and salmon eggs. September fishing hours are 7:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. (Report made on 9/19/2011)

Maramec Spring Park: 57 degrees, normal, fishing is good; the water is clear; use very light weight line and tackle; dough and putty baits are producing good numbers when fished free floating; throughout the spring branch feather jigs and trout worms in black/yellow, green, white, and pink are producing good numbers of fish; fish are holding in deep holes and below the waterfalls, target these areas for best success; fishing hours for the month of September are 7:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. (Report made on 9/22/2011)

Montauk State Park: 58 degrees, the river level is normal; the water is clear; fishing is good on most baits; scented dough and putty baits are working well, as are flies, Rooster Tails and jigs, black and yellow, white, and olive colors are working well. The best fishing is during the morning and evening hours. September fishing hours are 7:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m.

For up-to-date stream conditions check http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?07064440 (Report made on 9/21/2011)

Roaring River State Park: 58 degrees, the water is fairly clear, normal to a little high; fishing has been very good early in the day, late in the evening and in shady spots during the day; dry fly fishing is excellent right now; cheese yellow, white fluorescent, orange and brown colors in plastic eggs and worms working well; black, brown, olive and white spinners working well; small crankbaits are working well; marabou and micro jigs are good; olive, white, black/yellow and tan are good; in Zone 3: nightcrawlers, minnows and corn, white, orange or fluorescent yellow Power Bait paste is working well.
(Report made on 9/21/2011)

September 22, 2011 - White River - Submitted by Berry Brothers Guides - JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 9/22/2011

During the past week, we have had several major rain events and cooler temperatures. The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam fell three feet to rest at four feet above power pool of 654.00 feet. This is thirty seven feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake rose one tenth of a foot to rest at seven tenths of a foot below power pool or sixteen and seven tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake rose one tenth of a foot to rest at seven tenths of a foot above power pool or eight and nine tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we have had fairly heavy generation around the clock. There has been no wadable water. Norfork Lake fell one and three tenths of a foot to rest at one and nine tenths feet above power pool of 552.00 feet or twenty six and one tenth feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, we have had much lighter generation and significant periods of wadable water.

The rate of the drop in lake levels on all of the lakes on the White River system was slowed somewhat by major rain events. I predict that we will reach power pool on Bull Shoals, Norfork and Beaver Lakes in approximately one week. Table Rock Lake is already below the top of power pool. We could then expect lower flows and more wadable water.

The best place to fish was the section from Rim Shoals down to Buffalo City. The hot flies were pink San Juan worms with copper Johns and red zebra midges in size fourteen or sixteen as droppers. The flows have been fairly constant with little if any fluctuation all day. The key to fishing these flows has been to fish long leader/tippet combinations (twelve feet or longer), very heavy weight (AAA split shot) and a large strike indicator set at the top of the leader.

Another technique that has been effective has been to bang the bank with large articulated streamers. The hot flies have been Zoo Cougars, Sex Dungeons and Butt Monkeys. The trick to presenting these flies is to use a long fast sinking sink tip (250 grain or heavier). Don’t use a leader. Attach the fly to the line with a three foot 2X fluorocarbon tippet to prevent the fly from riding up. You will need a stiff eight rod to cast this rig. This is hard work but can be very rewarding.

Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are very low and gin clear. The Buffalo and Crooked Creek received a much needed influx of water from the recent rain and both are navigable. Several anglers have reported success with Clouser minnows and grass hoppers. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly.

On the Norfork River, we have had some significant periods of wadable water. On lower water the hot flies have been small black zebra midges (size 20 and smaller) and Dan’s turkey tail emerger. On higher flows the best technique has been to drift brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns (pink and orange).

Dry Run Creek has fished well. The hot flies have been sowbugs and various colored San Juan worms (worm brown, red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise). The big browns have started moving into the creek and many nice browns have been caught in the past few days.

The water level on the Spring River is low and lightly stained. This is a great place to wade fish. Canoe season is finally over and we should have much less traffic on stream. Be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been Bayou Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise and hot pink San Juan worms and Y2Ks.

September 15, 2011 - Courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation -

TROUT PARKS

Bennett Spring State Park: 57 degrees, clear; the spring level is near normal; Zone 1 and 2 best lures: John Deere colored mini jigs, ginger colored and brown colored bead head Cracklebacks, salmon and brown colored, moss colored, brown and yellow colored marabou jigs, rainbow colored and blue colored Rooster Tails, shrimp colored, easter tri-colored and Jimi Hendrix colored glo balls, red colored and copper colored brassies; Zone 3 best lures: white colored and yellow colored Power Baits, white colored worms, and salmon eggs. September fishing hours are 7:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. (Report made on 9/15/2011)

Maramec Spring Park: 58 degrees, normal, fishing is good; the water is slightly dingy due to recent rain; use very light tackle; dough and putty baits are producing good numbers when fished free floating; throughout the spring branch feather jigs and trout worms in black/yellow, green, white, and pink are producing good numbers of fish; fish are holding in deep holes and below the waterfalls, target these areas for best success; fishing hours for the month of September are 7:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. (Report made on 9/14/2011)

Montauk State Park: 58 degrees, the river level is normal; the water is clear; fishing is good on most baits; scented dough and putty baits are working well, as are flies, Rooster Tails and jigs, black and yellow, white, and olive colors are working well. The best fishing is during the morning and evening hours. September fishing hours are 7:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m.

For up-to-date stream conditions check http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?07064440 (Report made on 9/14/2011)

Roaring River State Park: 58 degrees, the water is clear, normal and low; use 2 lb. test or lighter; fishing has been very good early in the day, late in the evening and in shady spots during the day; dry fly fishing is excellent right now; cheese yellow, white fluorescent, orange and brown colors in plastic eggs and worms working well; black, brown, olive and white spinners working well; small crankbaits are working well; marabou and micro jigs are good; olive, white, black/yellow and tan are good; in Zone 3: nightcrawlers, minnows and corn, white, orange or fluorescent yellow Power Bait paste is working well.
(Report made on 9/14/2011)

September 8, 2011 - White River - Submitted by Berry Brothers Guides - JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 9/08/2011

During the past week, we have had no rain and much cooler temperatures. The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam fell four and one tenth feet to rest at ten and eight tenths feet above power pool of 654.00 feet. This is thirty and two tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake fell two tenths of a foot to rest at two tenths of a foot above power pool or fifteen and eight tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake fell seven tenths of a foot to rest at one and two tenths feet above power pool or eight and four tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we have had fairly heavy generation around the clock. There has been no wadable water. Norfork Lake fell two and five tenths of a foot to rest at five and eight tenths feet above power pool of 552.00 feet or twenty two and two tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, we have had moderately heavy generation around the clock. There has been no wadable water.

The rate of the drop in lake levels on all of the lakes on the White River system has increased and barring any major rain events I predict that we will reach power pool on Bull Shoals and Norfork Lakes in approximately three weeks. We could then expect lower flows and some wadable water.

The best place to fish was the section from Rim Shoals down to Buffalo Shoals. The hot flies were pink San Juan worms with copper Johns and red zebra midges in size fourteen or sixteen as droppers. The flows have been fairly constant with little fluctuation all day. The key to fishing these flows has been to fish long leader/tippet combinations (twelve feet or longer), very heavy weight (AAA split shot) and a large strike indicator set at the top of the leader.

Grasshopper season is still with us. They provide us with some of the best and most reliable dry fly fishing of the year. These are large tempting morsels that can tempt big fish. You need a nine foot 2X leader and a stiff rod (a six weight would be perfect). The trick is to bang the bank and imitate the action of a grasshopper that has fallen into the water and is struggling. Many takes occur when the fly hits the water. The most effective patterns are Dave’s hoppers or big western foam hoppers (both in tan). To increase your catch, use a small nymph as a dropper. Effective nymphs would be pheasant tails or copper Johns. The most effective section of the river for this technique has been the section from Rim Shoals to Buffalo Shoals.

Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are very low and gin clear. The Buffalo is still navigable but Crooked Creek is not due to the low water. Several anglers have reported success with Clouser minnows and black zonkers. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly.

The generation pattern has changed significantly on the Norfork River. They are running water continuously. On high water, the best technique has been to drift brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns (pink and orange). Remember that the dissolved oxygen level is very low on the upper river (above the Ackerman Access). Land any fish hooked there quickly and carefully revive them before release.

Dry Run Creek has fished well. The hot flies have been sowbugs and various colored San Juan worms (worm brown, red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise). With school back in session, there is much less pressure on Dry Run Creek. There is a lot of tree cover that restricts room for casting. The most effective technique is to high stick nymphs. Be sure to carry a big net. The fish are huge.

The water level on the Spring River is very low and clear. This is a great place to wade fish. Canoe season is finally over and we should have much less traffic on stream. Be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been the Dam Three Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise and hot pink San Juan worms and Y2Ks.

If you can, plan on attending the White River TU meeting at El Chico’s Restaurant at 6:00 PM on Monday to hear Sheffield Nelson discuss managing risk in the extraction of oil and gas in Arkansas. There will be free finger food and a cash bar. Visit http://www.news.whiterivertu.com for more information.

September 8, 2011 - Courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation -

TROUT PARKS

Bennett Spring State Park: 57 degrees, clear; the spring level is near normal; Zone 1 and 2 best lures: John Deere colored mini jigs, ginger colored and brown colored bead head Cracklebacks, salmon and brown colored, moss colored, brown and yellow colored marabou jigs, rainbow colored and blue colored Rooster Tails, shrimp colored, easter tri-colored and Jimi Hendrix colored glo balls, red colored and copper colored brassies; Zone 3 best lures: white colored and yellow colored Power Baits, white colored worms, and salmon eggs. September fishing hours are 7:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. We will be cutting weeds September 13 and 14. We will start around 8 a.m. and finish by 3 p.m. Thank you for your patience. (Report made on 9/7/2011)

Maramec Spring Park: 58 degrees, low, fishing is good; the water is clear so use very light tackle; dough and putty baits are producing good numbers when fished free floating or underneath a float; throughout the spring branch feather jigs in black/yellow, olive, white, and pink are producing good numbers of fish; fish are holding in runs, deep holes and below the waterfalls, target these areas for best success; fishing hours for the month of September are 7:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. Ladies Free Fishing Day is Saturday, September 10th. (Report made on 9/7/2011)

Montauk State Park: 59 degrees, the river level is normal; the water is clear; fishing is good on most baits; scented dough and putty baits are working well, as are flies, Rooster Tails and jigs, black and yellow, white, and olive colors are working well. Fishing has been slow during the hotter parts of the day. The best fishing is during the morning and evening hours. September fishing hours are 7:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m.

For up-to-date stream conditions check http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?07064440 (Report made on 9/1/2011)

Roaring River State Park: 58 degrees, the water is clear, normal and low; use 2 lb. test or lighter; fishing has been very good early in the day, late in the evening and in shady spots during the day; dry fly fishing is excellent right now; cheese yellow, white fluorescent, orange and brown colors in plastic eggs and worms working well; black, brown, olive and white spinners working well; small crankbaits are working well; marabou and micro jigs are good; olive, white, black/yellow and tan are good; in Zone 3: nightcrawlers, minnows and corn, white, orange or fluorescent yellow Power Bait paste is working well.
(Report made on 9/8/2011)

September 1, 2011 - Courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation -

TROUT PARKS

Bennett Spring State Park: 57 degrees, clear; the spring level is near normal; Zone 1 and 2 best lures: John Deere colored mini jigs, ginger colored and brown colored bead head Cracklebacks, salmon and brown colored, moss colored, brown and yellow colored marabou jigs, rainbow colored and blue colored Rooster Tails, shrimp colored, easter tri-colored and Jimi Hendrix colored glo balls, red colored and copper colored brassies; Zone 3 best lures: white colored and yellow colored Power Baits, white colored worms, and salmon eggs. September fishing hours are 7:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. We will be cutting weeds September 13 and 14. We will start around 8 a.m. and finish by 3 p.m. Thank you for your patience. (Report made on 9/1/2011)

Maramec Spring Park: 58 degrees, normal, fishing is excellent; the water is clear so use very light tackle; dough and putty baits are producing good numbers when fished free floating or underneath a float; throughout the spring branch feather jigs in black/yellow, olive, white, and pink are producing good numbers of fish; fish are holding in deep holes and below the falls, target these areas for best success; fishing hours for the month of September are 7:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. Ladies Free Fishing Day is Saturday, September 10th. (Report made on 9/1/2011)

Montauk State Park: 59 degrees, the river level is normal; the water is clear; fishing is good on most baits; scented dough and putty baits are working well, as are flies, Rooster Tails and jigs, black and yellow, white, and olive colors are working well. Fishing has been slow during the hotter parts of the day. The best fishing is during the morning and evening hours. September fishing hours are 7:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m.

For up-to-date stream conditions check http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?07064440 (Report made on 9/1/2011)

Roaring River State Park: 58 degrees, the water is clear and normal; fishing has been very good early in the day, late in the evening and in shady spots during the day; dry fly fishing is excellent right now; cheese yellow, white fluorescent, orange and brown colors in plastic eggs and worms working well; black, brown, olive and white spinners working well; small crankbaits are working well; marabou and micro jigs are good; olive, white, black/yellow and tan are good; in Zone 3: nightcrawlers, minnows and corn, white, orange or fluorescent yellow Power Bait paste is working well.
(Report made on 9/1/2011)

September 1, 2011 - White River - Submitted by Berry Brothers Guides - JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 9/01/2011

During the past week, we have had no measurable rain event and much hotter temperatures. The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam fell three and four tenths feet to rest at fourteen and nine tenths feet above power pool of 654.00 feet. This is twenty six and one tenth feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake fell three tenths of a foot to rest at four tenths of a foot above power pool or fifteen and six tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake fell seven tenths of a foot to rest at one and nine tenths feet above power pool or seven and seven tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we have had fairly heavy generation around the clock. There has been no wadable water. Norfork Lake fell one and eight tenths of a foot to rest at eight and three tenths feet above power pool of 552.00 feet or nineteen and seven tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, we have had a classic summer generation schedule with light or no generation at night and high generation during times of peak power demand. There has been little if any wadable water.

Based on the rate of the drop in lake levels on all of the lakes on the White River system and barring any major rain events I predict that we will reach power pool on Bull Shoals and Norfork Lakes in approximately four weeks. We could then expect lower flows and some wadable water.

The best place to fish was the section from Wildcat Hole down to Rim Shoals. The hot flies were pink San Juan worms with copper Johns and red zebra midges in size fourteen or sixteen as droppers. The flows have been fairly constant with little fluctuation all day. The key to fishing these flows has been to fish long leader/tippet combinations (twelve feet or longer), very heavy weight (AAA split shot) and a large strike indicator set at the top of the leader.

Grasshopper season is upon us. They provide us with some of the best and most reliable dry fly fishing of the year. These are large tempting morsels that can tempt big fish. You need a nine foot 2X leader and a stiff rod (a six weight would be perfect). The trick is to bang the bank and imitate the action of a grasshopper that has fallen into the water and is struggling. Many takes occur when the fly hits the water. The most effective patterns are Dave’s hoppers or big western foam hoppers (both in tan). To increase your catch, use a small nymph as a dropper. Effective nymphs would be pheasant tails or copper Johns. The most effective section of the river for this technique has been the section from Rim Shoals to Buffalo Shoals.

Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are very low and gin clear. Navigating Crooked Creek is difficult due to the low water. Several anglers have reported success with Clouser minnows and crawfish patterns. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly.

The generation pattern has changed significantly on the Norfork River. They are turning on the generator earlier, which has resulted in substantially less wadable water. On high water, the best technique has been to drift brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns (pink and orange). Remember that the dissolved oxygen level is very low on the upper river (above the Ackerman Access). Land any fish hooked there quickly and carefully revive them before release.

Dry Run Creek has fished well. The hot flies have been sowbugs and various colored San Juan worms (worm brown, red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise). While you are there take a tour of the adjacent National Fish Hatchery. It is very interesting.

The water level on the Spring River is low and clear. This is a great place to wade fish. However, there are many canoeists this time of year, particularly on the weekends. If you wish to escape them, fish the upper section near the Lassiter Access. Be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been the Dam Three Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise and hot pink San Juan worms and Y2Ks.

August 25, 2011 - Courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation -

TROUT PARKS

Bennett Spring State Park: 56 degrees, clear; the spring level is near normal; Zone 1 and 2 best lures: red colored and red with green head colored brassies, John Deere colored mini jigs, ginger colored and brown colored bead head Cracklebacks, gingersnap with 8 oz. gold head colored, red and black colored, pink and white colored and salmon and brown colored marabou jigs, green and black with a gold spinner and black colored with a silver spinner Rooster Tails, shrimp colored, chartreuse colored and red and white colored glo balls, red colored and olive colored brassies; Zone 3 best lures: salmon peach colored and yellow colored Power Baits, red and white colored worms, and salmon eggs. August fishing hours are 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. September fishing hours are 7:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. We will be cutting weeds September 13 and 14. We will start around 8 a.m. and finish by 3 p.m. Thank you for your patience. (Report made on 8/25/2011)

Maramec Spring Park: 58 degrees, fishing is excellent; the water is clear with good flow; dough and putty baits are producing good numbers when fished free floating or underneath a float; throughout the spring branch feather jigs in black/yellow, olive, white, and pink are producing good numbers of fish; fish are holding in deep holes and below the falls, target these areas for best success; fishing hours for the month of August are 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; Ladies Free Fishing Day is Saturday, September 10th. (Report made on 8/24/2011)

Montauk State Park: 59 degrees, the river level is normal; the water is clear; fishing is good on most baits; scented dough and putty baits are working well, as are flies, Rooster Tails and jigs, black and yellow, white, and olive colors are working well. Fishing has been slow during the hotter parts of the day. The best fishing is during the morning and evening hours. August fishing hours are 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. September fishing hours are 7:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m.

For up-to-date stream conditions check http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?07064440 (Report made on 8/24/2011)

Roaring River State Park: 58 degrees, the water is clear and normal; fishing has been very good early in the day, late in the evening and in shady spots during the day; dry fly fishing is excellent right now; cheese yellow, white fluorescent, orange and brown colors in plastic eggs and worms working well; black, brown, olive and white spinners working well; small crankbaits are working well; marabou and micro jigs are good; olive, white, black/yellow and tan are good; in Zone 3: nightcrawlers, minnows and corn, white, orange or fluorescent yellow Power Bait paste is working well.
(Report made on 8/24/2011)

August 25, 2011 - White River - Submitted by Berry Brothers Guides - JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 8/25/2011

During the past week, we have had a moderate rain event and warmer temperatures. The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam fell three and one tenth feet to rest at eighteen and three tenths feet above power pool of 654.00 feet. This is twenty two and seven tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake fell one tenth of a foot to rest at seven tenths of a foot above power pool or fifteen and three tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake fell seven tenths of a foot to rest at two and six tenths feet above power pool or seven feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we have had fairly heavy generation around the clock. There has been no wadable water. Norfork Lake fell one and five tenths of a foot to rest at ten and one tenth feet above power pool of 552.00 feet or seventeen and nine tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, we have had a classic summer generation schedule with light or no generation at night and high generation during times of peak power demand. There has been less wadable water than last week.

The best place to fish was the section from Wildcat Shoals down to Cotter. The hot flies were pink San Juan worms with copper Johns and red zebra midges in size fourteen or sixteen as droppers. The flows have been fairly constant with little fluctuation all day. The key to fishing these flows has been to fish long leader/tippet combinations (twelve feet or longer), very heavy weight (AAA split shot) and a large strike indicator set at the top of the leader.

Another hot spot has been Rim Shoals. The even flows it has received have been perfect for drifting. Various nymphs like pheasant tails, copper Johns and red zebra midges have accounted for a lot of fish. The most effective fly on the higher flows is a hot fluorescent pink or cerise San Juan worm.

Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are low and gin clear. The water temperature is right on and the small mouth action has been red hot! Several anglers have reported success with Clouser minnows and crawfish patterns. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly.

The generation pattern has changed significantly on the Norfork River. They are turning on the generators earlier, which has resulted in substantially less wadable water. The top flies on lower flows have been green butt and partridge and orange soft hackles. Dan’s turkey tail emerger has also accounted for a lot of fish. On high water, the best technique has been to drift brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns (pink and orange). Some anglers have reported success banging the bank with hopper patterns.

Dry Run Creek has fished well. The hot flies have been sowbugs and various colored San Juan worms (worm brown, red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise). Be sure that you use heavy tippet (4X) because many of the fish here are huge. Fluorocarbon tippet is best as it is much more abrasion resistant and a bit stronger. Carry the biggest net that you can lay you hands on and a camera.

The water level on the Spring River is lower but stained. This is a great place to wade fish. However, there are many canoeists this time of year, particularly on the weekends. If you wish to escape them, fish the upper section near the Lassiter Access. Be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been the Dam Three Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise and hot pink San Juan worms and Y2Ks.

August 10, 2011 - Courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation -

TROUT PARKS

Bennett Spring State Park: 56 degrees, clear; the spring level is near normal; Zone 1 and 2 best lures: red colored and red with green head colored brassies, John Deere colored mini jigs, ginger colored and brown colored bead head Cracklebacks, gingersnap with 8 oz. gold head colored, red and black colored, pink and white colored and salmon and brown colored marabou jigs, green and black with a gold spinner and black colored with a silver spinner Rooster Tails, shrimp colored, chartreuse colored and red and white colored glo balls, red colored and olive colored brassies; Zone 3 best lures: salmon peach colored and yellow colored Power Baits, red and white colored worms, and salmon eggs. August fishing hours are 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Report made on 8/8/2011)

Maramec Spring Park: 58 degrees, fishing is excellent; the water is clear with good flow; throughout the spring branch feather jigs in black/yellow, olive, white, and pink are producing good numbers of fish; dough and putty baits are producing good numbers when fished free floating or underneath a float; fish are holding in deep holes and below the falls; fishing hours for the month of August are 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Women's Free Fishing Day is Saturday, September 10th. (Report made on 8/10/2011)

Montauk State Park: 59 degrees, the river level is normal; the water is clear; fishing is good on most baits; scented dough and putty baits are working well, as are flies, Rooster Tails and jigs, black and yellow, white, and olive colors are working well. Fishing has been slow during the hotter parts of the day. The best fishing is during the morning and evening hours. August fishing hours are 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

For up-to-date stream conditions check http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?07064440 (Report made on 8/11/2011)

Roaring River State Park: 58 degrees, the water is clear and normal; fishing has been very good early in the day, late in the evening and in shady spots during the day; dry fly fishing is excellent right now; cheese yellow, white fluorescent, orange and brown colors in plastic eggs and worms working well; black, brown, olive and white spinners working well; small crankbaits are working well; marabou and micro jigs are good; olive, white, black/yellow and tan are good; in Zone 3: nightcrawlers, minnows and corn, white, orange or fluorescent yellow Power Bait paste is working well.
(Report made on 8/11/2011)

August 11, 2011 - White River - Submitted by Berry Brothers Guides - JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 8/11/2011

During the past week, we have had several minor rain events and generally cooler temperatures. The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam fell two and nine tenths feet to rest at twenty five feet above power pool of 654.00 feet. This is sixteen feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake fell four tenths of a foot to rest at nine tenths of a foot above power pool or fifteen and one tenth feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake fell four tenths of a foot to rest at three and six tenths feet above power pool or six feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we have had fairly heavy generation around the clock. There has been no wadable water. Norfork Lake fell one and six tenths of a foot to rest at thirteen and nine tenths feet above power pool of 552.00 feet or fourteen and nine tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, we have had a summer generation schedule with light or no generation at night and high generation during times of peak demand. There has been reliable wadable water early every morning.

The rate of drop on the lakes has increased. As we near power pool on Table Rock, we will see an even faster rate of drop on Bull Shoals particularly with the high energy demands brought on by hot weather.

The best place to fish was Rim Shoals. On low water the hot flies were pink San Juan worms with copper Johns and red zebra midges in size fourteen or sixteen as droppers. The heavy water has been getting there around one or two o’clock. The key to fishing the high flows has been to fish long leader/tippet combinations (twelve feet or longer), very heavy weight (two or more AAA split shot) and a large strike indicator set at the top of the leader. The go to flies have been brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns in pink or orange.

Another hot spot has been Buffalo Shoals. The low flows it has received mid morning have been perfect for drifting. Pheasant tails, copper Johns and red zebra midges have accounted for a lot of fish. The most effective fly on the higher flows is a hot fluorescent pink or cerise San Juan worm.

Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are low and gin clear. They are so low you may have to drag your boat through certain sections. The water temperature is right on and the small mouth action has been red hot! Several anglers have reported success with Clouser minnows and crawfish patterns. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly.

The action has picked up on the Norfork. With no wadable water on the White, the Norfork has continued to receive substantially more pressure this past week. On high water, the best technique has been to drift brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns (pink and orange). Some anglers have reported success banging the bank with hopper patterns. On low water, midge patterns and soft hackles have been the key to success.

Dry Run Creek has fished well. The hot flies have been sowbugs and various colored San Juan worms (worm brown, red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise). With school starting soon, there should be fewer young anglers on the creek during the week. Be sure to use heavy tippet as the trout are large there and carry a big net. A long handled boat net is perfect. While you are there be sure and visit the adjacent national fish hatchery. It is fascinating. Be sure and remove your waders before entering to prevent the spread of aquatic diseases.