Fly Fishing Reports for Kansas, Arkansas, Colorado, Missouri 2009 April-June

We have had no rain and unseasonably hot weather (high nineties). Most of the lakes on the White river system have fallen. The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam fell eight tenths of a foot to rest at fifteen and six tenths feet above power pool of 654.00 feet. This is twenty five and four tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Up stream, Table Rock Lake rose one tenth of a foot to rest at one and six tenths feet above power pool or fourteen and four tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake fell four tenths of a foot to rest at eight and one tenth feet above power pool or one and five tenths feet below the top of flood pool. The pattern on the White was for round the clock generation of varied flows (3,000 CFS to 12,000 CFS). During the night and morning we have been getting lower flows. The flows have been much heavier in the afternoon during peak power demand. This created some challenging conditions for drift fishing and some limited wade fishing. Norfork Lake has fallen two tenths of a foot to rest at ten and five tenths feet above power pool of 552.00 feet or seventeen and five tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Generation on the Norfork has been limited, which has created some excellent wading. The flows are heavier in the afternoon during peak power demand.

Remember that there is a new size limit on Brown trout. All browns less than twenty four inches must be released immediately no matter where they are caught on the White and Norfork Rivers . Only one brown trout may be kept in the daily limit of five trout.

It has been dangerously hot this last week. If possible, fish early in the morning to avoid the heat. If you must fish during the heat of the day, wear loose fitting, light colored clothing and drink plenty of fluids (water is best). Wear a broad brimmed hat and do not forget the sun screen.

The Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam has been productive this past week. With the moderate flows we have been getting, anglers reported success on midge larva patterns. The most effective were zebra midges in black with silver wire and silver beads and red with silver wire and silver beads. The best sizes were sixteens and fourteens. Copper Johns and pheasant tails have also been quite productive. On higher flows, the hot patterns have been hot pink San Juan worms and egg patterns.

The sulphurs are still in the upper river. They were sighted from the Dam to the Narrows in numbers but were thinning a bit in the Rim Shoals to Cotter area. This is our major mayfly hatch of the year. They are yellow/orange insects. The hatch generally begins with size fourteen and ends next month with size eighteens. The best way to fish them is with copper John or pheasant tail nymphs before the hatch begins, when the nymphs are more active. When the nymphs rise to the surface and begin to emerge, switch to partridge and orange or pheasant tail soft hackles. When the trout begin keying in on the adults, switch to sulphur parachute dry flies. With the higher flows we have been getting the best action has been on the copper John or pheasant tail nymphs.

The section from White Hole to Cotter has been very popular for float trips. The preferred technique in this section is to bang the bank with large streamers. The hot flies have been Kelly Gallop zoo cougars and other similar oversized streamers. The secret is to get the fly down. Most anglers use heavy full sinking or sink tip lines. To cast these huge flies and heavy lines most anglers are using eight weight or larger rods.

Rim Shoals has fished particularly well this past week. The sulphur hatch is still coming off on most days, but is diminished. The trout have not keyed in on the adults but have been very active on the nymphs. The best fly for this situation has been the copper John before, during and after the hatches. With the higher flows we have been getting here in the afternoon, the hot flies have been the hot pink San Juan worm and Y2K.

Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River have fished extremely well this week, particularly on Clouser minnows. The water has reached a much safer level and has cleared substantially.

The Norfork River has received a lot of pressure this week. There has been some great wadable water every morning and a lot of anglers have been taking advantage of it. The most productive flies have been small black zebra midges, Norfork beadheads and red micro San Juan worms. On higher water, fish brightly colored San Juan worms and egg patterns. Olive woolly buggers accounted for several nice trout. Remember that the water rise happens very fast here. At the earliest hint of rising water, get out. Hopefully, you can exit the river on the side where your car is parked.

Dry Run Creek has particularly well this past week. The hot fly has been the sowbug. Use heavy tippet (4X) and work a short line. This is a great place to escape the heat. The creek is in a tight little valley with lots of tree cover and deceptively cold water. It is always several degrees cooler than any place else around here. It is even cooler, if you are wet wading. Donot forget the camera. This is where your youngster can land the big one.

June 25, 2009 - Courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation

TROUT PARKS:

Bennett Spring State Park:

54 degrees, high, dingy; successful lures and baits include: jigs (black/yellow, ginger); mini-jigs (beadspread and john deere); glo balls (any 3 color combo and white); also successful are kapok flies, hot pink brassies, and bumblebee rooster tails, white and orange Power Baits and trout nip. For more info call 417-532-4418. For current streamflow information check the streamflow gauge provided by USGS and DNR: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/mo/nwis/uv/?site_no=06923500&PARAmeter_cd=00065,00060 (Report made on 6/25/2009)

Maramec Spring Park:

58 degrees, spring branch is at normal flow; water is somewhat murky; fishing good; white colored lures and baits working well. (Report made on 6/25/2009)

Montauk State Park:

60 degrees, falling, clear; fishing is good; the river remains a few inches above normal and is beginning to clear up; in the bait area, corn, doughbaits and Power Baits in white, yellow, green, cheese and pink are producing good numbers of fish; in the fly area, scuds and mini marabou jigs suspended under a float are producing good numbers of fish; also heavier weighted marabou jigs fished in the swift water are doing well; check at the lodge for other good fly choices. Fishing Hours for June and July are 6:30am to 8:30pm. Weed cutting will take place on Tuesday, June 30th, beginning at 9:00 am. Montauk Lake, Spring Branch and above the Mill dam will be cut. (Report made on 6/25/2009)

Roaring River State Park:

57 degrees, falling, clear; the river continues to clear with visibility down to about 6 feet; 2-3 lb. test line is recommended; check at park store or local fly shops for best flies and bait; for current or detailed information on stream conditions call 417-847-2430. The next Kids Fishing event will be August 15. For current real time streamflow information check the streamflow gauge provided by USGS and DNR: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/mo/nwis/uv/?site_no=07050152&PARAmeter_cd=00065,00060 (Report made on 6/25/2009)

June 24, 2009 - Courtesty of Arkansas Game and Fish Commission -

Little Red River:

Lindsey's Resort (501-302-3139) said the fishing is excellent. The water level varies from low in the morning hours to normal around noon when they turn on the generators. Trout are biting well on Power Bait, marshmallows and wax worms when the water is low, and spoons, Rapalas and marabou jigs when the water is high.

Jed Hollan at the Little Red Fly Shop said water releases at Greers Ferry have been friendlier to the angler since the last of May. Morning water releases at 8 a.m. during the week and 11 a.m. over the weekends have brought many anglers back to our world-class trophy trout stream. On weekends, since the first of June, wade-fishing has been possible at JFK Park from 5:30 a.m. until the horn blows at 11 a.m. Wading at Cow Shoal has been possible from dawn until about 12:30 p.m., until around 2 p.m. at Winkley Shoal (Swingin' Bridge) and until about 3:30 p.m. at Libby Shoal. Bugs that trout like to eat continue to hatch most every day along our beautiful coldwater fishery. They include midges, BWO, caddis, March brown, sulphurs and hexes. The best dries to try include sulphur (sizes 18-20), midge (sizes 22-32; cream), parachute Adams (size 18), March brown (size 14), blue winged olive (sizes 18-20) and elk hair caddis (sizes 16-20; tan or black). Sub-surface offerings should include sowbug (sizes 14-16; tan, smoky olive, UV tan or UV light gray), zebra midge (sizes 16-22; red, copper or black), San Juan worm (size 14; red, worm brown or fluorescent cerise), copper john (sizes 14-16; green, copper or red), red or green butt soft hackle (sizes 14-18) or woolly bugger (sizes 8-12; olive, brown or black).

White River:

John Berry from Berry Brothers Guide Service said the pattern on the White was for around-the-clock generation of moderate flows with a few significant periods of no generation. This created some excellent conditions for drift fishing and some limited but excellent wading. The catch-and-release section below Bull Shoals Dam has been fishing extremely well. Anglers reported success on midge larva patterns. The most effective were zebra midges in black or red with silver wire and silver beads (sizes 14-16). Other hot patterns have been pheasant tails and egg patterns. During the recent periods of no generation, anglers have done very well on partridge and orange soft hackles and green butts. There have been some decent midge hatches. The best fly for the midge hatches have been Dan’s turkey tail emerger. Wildcat Shoals has fished extremely well. There have been some prolific sulphur hatches in the late afternoon. Though there has been some limited dry fly fishing, the most productive technique has been to swing soft hackles when the trout are keying in on the emerging sulphurs. The most productive flies for this situation have been partridge and orange and pheasant tail soft hackles. Rim Shoals has fished well. The sulphur hatch is still coming off on most days, but is diminished. The trout have not keyed in on the adults, but have been very active on the emergers. The best fly for this situation has been the partridge and orange soft hackle. The most productive way to fish the hatch however has been to fish copper John nymphs before during and after the hatches.

Mountain River Fly Shop said moderate flows on the White were broken up Wednesday with low water. Those lucky enough to be on the water caught them. Relatively low flows in the mornings have opened up some wading throughout the system. Black and silver zebras, Clint’s black tungsten midge, and Davy Wotton’s super midges and white tails have been doing very well. In bright conditions, add the rainbow warrior and blue poison tung. In overcast conditions, add black and copper, or copper brown midges. Sowbugs have been very good. Davy’s Sows in size 16 and 18, Clint’s Sowbug, Tailwater Sowbugs and McLellan’s Woven V-Rib Sowbug all have been popular. Dry flies have been hot on low water. The fish are surface-oriented in these flows and while there are plenty of sulphurs coming off, patterns seem less important than getting the fly in front of a feeding fish. Elk hair caddis, hi-vis ants and parachute Adams have been doing as well.

Sportsman’s White River Resort (870-453-2424) said fishing has been great with 2 to 4 generators running around the clock. Fly-fishermen are using woolly buggers, San Juan worms and copper johns. The boat fishermen are boing very well with silver and gold Lil’ Cleos. Thomas Spoons in red/gold and rainbow colors are working as well.

White River (From Buffalo Shoals to Norfork):

Jim Brentlinger at Linger's Guide Service and Fishing Lodge (870-499-5185) said Rim Shoals has been fishing extremely well. Hot pink San Juan worms fished on a fly rod or on light spinning tackle under indicators have worked well. One-eighth ounce Zig Jigs on spinning tackle has been working as well. Shipps Ferry all the way to Reds has been producing fish on Zig Jigs and Power Baits. The area from Cartney to Matney is producing quite a few smallmouth on tubes and spinnerbaits throwing to the bank.

Crooked Creek:

John Berry of Berry Brothers Guide Service said Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are starting to clear. With lower flows the bass fishing should start picking up. Try Clouser minnows and crawfish patterns and concentrate on structure like rock shelves and fallen trees.

Norfork Tailwater:

John Berry from Berry Brothers Guide Service said generation has been very limited, which has created some excellent wading. The overall quality of fishing on the Norfork Tailwater remains poor. If you want to avoid the crowds, fish very early. The most productive flies have been small black zebra midges, Norfork beadheads and red micro San Juan worms. On higher water fish brightly colored San Juan worms and egg patterns. Dry Run Creek is fishing well. School is out and there is more pressure on the creek as families begin to take vacations. The hot fly is the sowbug. Always use heavy tippet (at least 4X) and carry the biggest net you can lay your hands on.

Mountain River Fly Shop said the Norfork continues to offer plenty of wading and some great fishing. Norfork has been fishing well with zebra midges and sowbugs, and swung soft hackles. But don’t leave home without some dry flies. Parachute Adams is the obvious, but some parachute midges, Morgan’s midge, hi-vis ants and sprouts also are worth carrying.

Beaver Tailwaters:

Ken Richards at Just Fishing Guides said the tailwater has been fishing very well. Generation has been very low, so wading and bank fishing are easily accomplished. Warmer days mean trout will be active from dawn till mid-morning then again later in the afternoon to evening. Afternoon fishing can be productive, but fish will be spooky and fairly deep. Copper Johns, hares ear nymphs and scuds are very productive. Watch for morning and evening midge hatches and switch to zebra or beadhead midges. Rooster Tails and pink jigs are working well in deep pools.

Shane Goodner, owner of Catch’em All Guide Service, reports that Entergy continues to generate full-time at Carpenter Dam. One turbine runs around the clock, creating a fairly strong current. Heavy fog covers the launch and day use area in the early morning with the water temperatures holding in the mid to upper 50s. Rainbow trout fishing remains slow, but a few fish have been caught in the morning and late evening. Trolling the main channels hasn't produced because thousands of threadfin shad are now in the tailrace for the spawn. Bank fishermen using nightcrawlers and wax worms fished just off the bottom have accounted for the trout taken the last month. When periods of no generation are scheduled, some quality trout fishing will occur as the fish will resume a more consistent feeding pattern. As the summer heat increases, the water temperature at Carpenter will rise into the mid 60's. By August, the vast majority of rainbows will leave the dam in search of cooler water and the trout season will be over until December when the restocking begins again.

June 18, 2009 - White River - Submitted by Berry Brothers Guides - JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 6/20/2009

We have had several rain events (it seems never ending) and we have had a mixed bag on the White River system. Some of the lakes have risen and Bull Shoals fell. The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam fell eight tenths of a foot to rest at sixteen and four tenths feet above power pool of 654.00 feet. This is twenty four and six tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Up stream, Table Rock Lake rose five tenths of a foot to rest at one and five tenths feet above power pool or fourteen and five tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake rose five tenths of a foot to rest at eight and five tenths feet above power pool or one and one tenth feet below the top of flood pool. The pattern on the White was for round the clock generation of erratic flows (3,000 CFS to 12,000 CFS). There were a few significant periods of no generation. This created some challenging conditions for drift fishing and some limited but excellent wading. Norfork Lake has risen four tenths of a foot to rest at ten and seven tenths feet above power pool of 552.00 feet or seventeen and three tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Generation on the Norfork has been limited, which has created some excellent wading. The Corps of Engineers has been holding back water to relieve flooding down stream. When that flooding abates, we can expect a significant period of high generation on both rivers.

The Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam has been red hot this past week. There have been some spectacular sulphur hatches particularly during the periods of no generation. Anglers reported success with sulphur parachutes and comparaduns during the hatch and copper Johns and pheasant tails before and after the hatch. The sulphurs have been accompanied by some spectacular midge hatches. The best fly for emerging midges is Dan’s turkey tail emerger. With the moderate flows we have been getting, anglers reported success on midge larva patterns. The most effective were zebra midges in black with silver wire and silver beads and red with silver wire and silver beads. The best sizes were sixteens and fourteens. On higher flows, the hot patterns have been pheasant tails, hot pink San Juan worms and egg patterns.

The sulphurs are still concentrated in the upper river. They were sighted from the Dam to the Narrows in numbers but were thinning a bit in the Rim Shoals to Cotter area. This is our major mayfly hatch of the year. They are yellow/orange insects. The hatch generally begins with size fourteen and ends next month with size eighteens. The best way to fish them is with copper John or pheasant tail nymphs before the hatch begins, when the nymphs are more active. When the nymphs rise to the surface and begin to emerge, switch to partridge and orange or pheasant tail soft hackles. When the trout begin keying in on the adults, switch to sulphur parachute dry flies. There has been some spectacular top water action, particularly on the unexpected low water.

The Narrows is still fishing extremely well. There have been some prolific sulphur hatches here especially in the afternoon. Though there has been some limited dry fly fishing, the most productive technique has been to swing soft hackles when the trout are keying in on the emerging sulphurs or copper Johns before and after the hatch. The most productive flies for this situation have been partridge and orange and pheasant tail soft hackles. Other effective flies have been the olive woolly bugger.

Rim Shoals has fished particularly well this past week. The sulphur hatch is still coming off on most days, but is diminished. The trout have not keyed in on the adults but have been very active on the emergers. The best fly for this situation has been the partridge and orange soft hackle. The most productive way to fish the hatch however has been to fish copper John nymphs before during and after the hatches. With the higher flows we have been getting here in the afternoon, the hot flies have been the hot pink San Juan worm and Y2K.

Crooked Creek fished extremely well early in the week, particularly on Clouser minnows. The recent rains have muddied the creek a bit and it will take a few days to clear.

The Norfork River has received a lot of pressure this week. There has been some great wadable water every morning and a lot of anglers have been taking advantage of it. The most productive flies have been small black zebra midges, Norfork beadheads and red micro San Juan worms. On higher water, fish brightly colored San Juan worms and egg patterns. Olive woolly buggers accounted for several nice trout. It should be noted that there was an angler rescue and a drowning on the Norfork this week. The Norfork is deceptively safe looking on low water. It can become a raging torrent on rising water. Closely monitor water levels at all times and get out at the first hint of rising water.

Dry Run Creek has been red hot with several trophy trout being caught. The hot fly has been the sowbug with the red San Juan running a close second. Use heavy tippet (4X) and work a short line. There is precious little room to cast. The key to success is to carry a long handled net with a huge bag. Please take plenty of time to carefully revive the trout before releasing them and always handle them with wet hands.

May 27, 2009 - Pagosa Springs Area - Submitted by Scott Taylor of High Country Charters - The stream flow in Pagosa has been steadily going down every day from 2,600 last week to 1,400 this morning. This is great for fisherman as the levels are allowing fishing on areas of Williams Creek, and Turkey Creek. Echo Lake was also stocked last week.

The lower Juan is on a one-week ramp up period to 5,000 cfs from 500. It will stay at 5,000 for one week followed by a one-week ramp down to 500cfs. Some anglers stay away from the high water, but if you ask the guides in the area, you will find out that they love it. Most of my biggest fish of the year are caught with the flows at 5,000. Many anglers are used to the 500 cfs levels, and are unaware that in the 80's it ran at 2,000. If you are wading at high flows be careful, very careful.

The ramp up period also makes the fishing on Navajo Lake great. It creates currents where there was very little or none. Find these currents and you will find the fish. With run off almost over the conditions of the rivers and lakes should be great for the summer. For more information on area streams or guided trips in the Pagosa Springs area, give me a call or check out my website.

54 degrees, high, dingy; stream is up 4-5 inches due to recent rains; best success is to fish deep; successful lures and baits include: jigs (black/yellow, ginger/orange); mini-jigs (beadspread and John Deere); glo balls (easter egg combo and white); also successful are bright colored Rooster Tails, hot pink brassies, orange, and white Power Baits and orange plastic worms. . For more info call 417-532-4418. For current streamflow information check the streamflow gauge provided by USGS and DNR: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/mo/nwis/uv/?site_no=06923500&PARAmeter_cd=00065,00060 (Report made on 5/21/2009)

58 degrees, falling, dingy; spring branch is murky; fishing has been good. (Report made on 5/20/2009)

58 degrees, falling, clear; fishing is good; the river has nice flow with a greenish color to the water; the river is slowly falling back down to normal flow, but is still a few inches above normal; in the bait area, corn, doughbaits and Power Baits in white, yellow, green, cheese and pink are producing good numbers of fish; in the fly area scuds and mini marabou jigs suspended under a float are producing good numbers of fish; also heavier weighted marabou jigs fished in the swift water are doing well; check at the lodge for other good fly choices. (Report made on 5/21/2009)

57 degrees, falling, clear; repairs are finished on areas of bank erosion caused by the May 1 flood; water has cleared with visibility down to about 3 feet; check at park store or local fly shops for best flies and bait; for current or detailed information on stream conditions call 417-847-2430. The next Kids Fishing event will be August 15. For current real time streamflow information check the streamflow gauge provided by USGS and DNR: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/mo/nwis/uv/?site_no=07050152&PARAmeter_cd=00065,00060 (Report made on 5/21/2009)

May 21, 2009 - Courtesty of Arkansas Game and Fish Commission -
CENTRAL ARKANSAS

Lindsey's Resort (501-302-3139) said the fishing is great with the water being clear and down with no units running. Trout are biting well on Power Bait, plugs and nightcrawlers. Fly-fisherman are doing well since the water level is low.

Jed Hollan at the Little Red Fly Shop said the Corps of Engineers has been releasing water every day from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m., using one generator for 8 hours and kicking in the second unit for 8 hours. Wade fishing at Winkley Shoal is possible from 6 a.m. to about 9 a.m. and until 11 a.m. at Libby Shoal. The hatches continue unabated with caddis, BWO, March brown, midge and sulphurs coming off most every day. The best dry flies to try include midge (size 22; cream), para adams (size 18), elk hair caddis (sizes 14-18; tan), blue-winged olive (size 18), para sulphur (size 18) or crackleback (size 12). Productive sub-surface flies to try include sowbug (sizes 14-16; tan, smoky olive, UV tan, UV light gray or peacock), chronic (size 14), zebra midge (sizes 16-22; red, copper or black), green or red butt soft hackle (sizes 14-18), copper john (sizes 14-16; green or red) or woolly bugger (sizes 8-12; olive, brown or black).

NORTH ARKANSAS
White River:

John Berry from Berry Brothers Guide Service said with all the rain and rising water, the pattern on the White was for round-the-clock generation of moderate flows. This has created some excellent conditions for drift fishing. The catch-and-release section below Bull Shoals Dam has been a bit spotty. One day is excellent and the next is very slow. Anglers reported success on midge patterns. The most effective were zebra midges in black with silver wire and silver beads and red with silver wire and silver beads. The best sizes were 14-16. Wildcat Shoals has been another hotspot. Anglers have reported great success during lower flows. The hot flies have been soft hackles. Try green butts, partridge and orange soft hackles and partridge and green soft hackles. An olive woolly bugger on a sink tip has also been quite effective. Rim Shoals has fished well. There are still some caddis coming off and there is some top-water activity near the banks. This requires an accurate cast and a good drift. Several anglers have had great success with green caddis larva ticked along the bottom under an indicator.

Sportsman's White River Resort (870-453-2424) said the water is clear with two to three generators running all week, keeping the water down. Fishing is great, especially fly-fishing. They are using woolly buggers, zebra midges and copper johns.

Jim Brentlinger at Linger's Guide Service and Fishing Lodge (870-499-5185) said the water has been very muddy. Even with the colored water, you can catch fish on hot pink glo-worms on a drift rig and tip your hook with white Power Bait. The fishing will be back to normal before the weekend unless we get more rain.

John Berry of Berry Brothers Guide Service said the seemingly endless rains have left Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River high and muddy. It will take a while for them to clear.

John Berry from Berry Brothers Guide Service said generation on the Norfork has been very limited, which has created some excellent wading. The Corps of Engineers has been holding back water to relieve flooding downstream. When that flooding abates, we can expect some much higher levels of generation. Fishing remains slow. There has been little generation recently and it has been pounded with near constant pressure. If you are fishing Quarry Park the hot fly has been the sowbug. On the lower river, zebra midges in black with silver wire and silver bead (size 18) and red micro worms (size 18) have been the go-to flies. There are still a few caddis out. Here again the presentation of your elk hair caddis must be flawless. Dry Run Creek continues to fish well. There is little room to cast here so you should keep your line short. The hot fly is the sowbug and the San Juan worm in red.

Jim Brentlinger at Linger's Guide Service and Fishing Lodge (870-499-5185) said the water is muddy with back up water from the White River. It will clear up as soon as some generation comes through to push out the muddy water. There have still been quite a few fish caught below the catch-and-release area on Power Bait and worms. Cast out and drag your bait back like you are working a plastic worm in the lake for bass. This works good when there is no generation.

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Mark Crawford at Spring River Fly Shop said rains have muddied the Warm Fork and raised water levels, but the Spring is still running clear. The Warm Fork is a small creek that runs into the Spring River at Dam 1. When it runs muddy and the Spring remains clear it usually takes about a day to clear up. Modified San Juan worms did very well Sunday morning.

WEST-CENTRAL ARKANSAS

Shane Goodner, owner of Catch'em All Guide Service, reports that the Carpenter Dam tailwater is clearing but still stained and moving fast. Heavy generation is the norm and will continue until Lake Ouachita is out of flood pool. Fishing has been limited, but some anglers are still catching fish. Rainbow trout fishing is very poor in the fast, muddy waters, but will improve as the water clears and slows. Areas that hold clearer water and are protected from the current have given up a few trout on nightcrawlers and wax worms fished just off the bottom. Brightly colored Rooster Tails and small crankbaits have taken some rainbows, but the bite is inconsistent.

April 29, 2009 - Courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation

TROUT PARKS:

Bennett Spring State Park:

54 degrees, high, dingy; stream is up 6 inches due to recent rains, flow is strong; color is slighly off; successful lures and baits include: jigs (black/yellow, red/chartreuse, ginger/pink); mini-jigs (beadspread and John Deere); glo balls ("easter egg" tri-color and white); also successful are white Rooster Tails, kapok, orange, and yellow Power Baits and Berkley Power Chow. Saturday May 2, is our annual Kid's Free Fishing Day for kids 15 and younger. For more info call 417-532-4418. For current streamflow information check the streamflow gauge provided by USGS and DNR: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/mo/nwis/uv/?site_no=06923500&PARAmeter_cd=00065,00060 (Report made on 4/30/2009)

Maramec Spring Park:

58 degrees, falling, dingy; spring branch is murky and a little high; white is a good color; fishing has been fair. (Report made on 4/30/2009)

Montauk State Park:

57 degrees, rising, dingy; in the fly area scuds and mini marabou jigs suspended under a float are producing good numbers of fish; check at the lodge for other good fly choices; in the bait area, corn, doughbaits and Power Baits in white, yellow, green, cheese and pink are producing good numbers of fish. Kid's Free Fishing Day is on Saturday May 2nd from 6:30am till 8:15pm. Free for kids 15 and under. Good fishing and good luck! (Report made on 4/30/2009)

Roaring River State Park:

57 degrees, rising, dingy; more weight will be necessary to get bait down; plastic eggs in white, brown and yellow or plastic worms in white, cheese, pink or orange are working well; Rooster Tails in black, skunk and brown are also working well; for current or detailed information call 417-847-2430. For current real time streamflow information check the streamflow gauge provided by USGS and DNR: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/mo/nwis/uv/?site_no=07050152&PARAmeter_cd=00065,00060 (Report made on 4/30/2009)

April 17, 2009 - Norfork and White River- Submitted by Mountain River Fly Shop - A betting man might take the odds on low water on the White Saturday, but the Norfork has been offering wading daily.

WHITE RIVER: There's just about a book running on whether or not generation will shut down this weekend. A lot depends on the weather but having the Kids Fishing Derby in the White at Cotter on Saturday between 9am and 2pm, is a pretty good indicator that us big kids might get some wading water too.

Caddis hatches have been heavy all week but with the generation the dry fly action was shortlived. the spaghetti and meatballs fishing was the best bet, though larger midges and sowbugs have been doing well

NORFORK: Lots of wade fishing this week, and some good reports. The usual cluster of suspects was good. Pack some soft hackles/emergers for the midge hatches, some scuds and sowbugs for nymphing and of course a cluster of midges

April 15, 2009 - White River - Submitted by Berry Brothers Guides - JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 4/18/2009

Over the past week, we have had several rain events and the lakes in the White River system have all risen and all are, once again, currently above power pool. The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam rose one and three tenths of a foot to rest at five tenths of a foot above power pool of 654.00 feet. This is forty and five tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Up stream, Table Rock Lake rose nine tenths of a foot to rest at one and eight tenths of a foot above power pool or fourteen and two tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake rose seven tenths of a foot to rest at one and one tenth of a foot above power pool or eight and five tenths feet below the top of flood pool. The pattern on the White was for generation around the clock. Water levels were particularly high at the beginning of the week and lower towards the end of the week. Norfork Lake has risen six tenths of a foot to rest at two tenths of a foot above power pool of 552.00 feet or twenty seven and eight tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Early in the week, there was heavy generation on the Norfork and later in the week there were several periods of no generation.

The big story remains the overall poor quality of fishing. The weather with its successive rain events and warm then cold temperatures may bear some of the responsibility. We are still getting some really prolific caddis hatches. The fish do not seem to be keying in on them like they were a few weeks ago.

The most effective way to fish during the past week has been to drift brightly colored San Juan worms and egg patterns. The most productive colors for the worms have been hot pink, cerise and red. The best colors for the eggs have been peach, pink and orange. The flows have been a bit lower this week and we have been able to use shorter leaders and a bit less weight making for much easier casting. The use of a small nymph as a dropper in non Catch and Release waters can substantially increase the opportunity for success.

The upper river from Bull Shoals down to the Narrows has fished a bit better. The best technique has been to bang the bank with large streamers on sink tip or full sinking lines. Several anglers have reported success with large streamers (up to seven inches long and equipped with up to three hooks). The hot fly has been a Zoo cougar. Remember that, if you are fishing in Catch and Release water, you can only use one hook point. These are big flies and you need really fast sinking sink tips or full sinking lines to get them down. This technique requires a substantial level of casting skill and is physically demanding. Big rods (eight weights) are a real plus.

Rim Shoals has been a bit slow. Some anglers have reported success fishing dry flies (caddis and grass hoppers). The best place to fish dry flies is along banks and in back eddies. Though it is not late summer and there are no hoppers present, they can still tempt good fish to strike at any time of year.

The water below Crooked Creek and The Buffalo River is a bit high and stained. You should concentrate your efforts on the upper river.

Fishing on Crooked Creek has improved as water temperatures climbed to fifty eight degrees. However, our recent rain events have muddied up the creek and it will take several days to clear.

The fishing on the Norfork has been slow. It has not fished well on high water recently. On the higher water the hot fly has been a hot pink or cerise San Juan worm. On lower water, the hot flies have been sowbugs, black zebra midges and olive woolly buggers. There have been some good midge hatches in the afternoons on lower water. The hot midge fly has been Dan's turkey tail emerger. Long 6X tippets are the key to success. The upper river at Quarry Park has fished a bit better than the lower river. It can get pretty crowded here. It is generally not as crowded during the week or later in the afternoon.

Dry Run Creek has fished well during the past week. The hot fly has been the sowbug. San Juan worms and woolly buggers have accounted for some nice fish. There is little room to cast so be sure and work as short a line as possible. The fish are huge, so you should use stout tippets (4X) to improve your chances of landing one. Carry a big net with a long handle. Please handle the fish carefully and release them as soon as possible. Do not forget to pinch down those barbs. It's the law and always a great idea when fishing with children. Finally, bring your camera and take a lot of pictures. It is an experience you and your children will never forget.

April 15, 2009 - Courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation

TROUT PARKS:

Bennett Spring State Park:

54 degrees, high, dingy; stream is up a few inches due to recent rains, somewhat off color; successful lures and baits include: jigs (black/yellow), ginger and pink; mini-jigs (white floss and John Deere); glo balls (original tri-color and white); also successful are Rooster Tails, kapok, orange Power Baits and salmon eggs. Saturday May 2, is our annual Kid's Free Fishing Day for kids 15 and younger. For more info call 417-532-4418. For current streamflow information check the streamflow gauge provided by USGS and DNR: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/mo/nwis/uv/?site_no=06923500&PARAmeter_cd=00065,00060 (Report made on 4/16/2009)

Maramec Spring Park:

58 degrees, falling, dingy; stream is up slightly and somewhat murky; still a greenish cast; use bright colors; white and pink marabou jigs, bright colored Power Baits and nightcrawlers working well. (Report made on 4/16/2009)

Montauk State Park:

57 degrees, falling, clear; the water in the park is clear with good flow. Fishing is good. In the fly area scuds and mini marabou jigs suspended under a float are producing good numbers of fish, also Cracklebacks and brassies are producing well. Check at the lodge for other good fly choices; in the bait area, corn, doughbait and Power Baits in white, yellow, green, cheese and pink are producing good numbers of fish. Good fishing and good luck! Park staff will be cutting aquatic vegetation beginning at 9:00 am April 22, 2009. The cutting will take place on the Spring Branch and lower reached of the fly water and should only take one day. (Report made on 4/16/2009)

Roaring River State Park:

57 degrees, rising, clear; flow has increased slightly from last week and water is mostly clear; 2-3 lb test line is recommended; fishing is from 7:00 am until 7:30 pm; plastic eggs in white, brown and yellow or plastic worms in white, cheese, pink or orange are working well; Rooster Tails in black, skunk and brown are also working well; for current or detailed information call 417-847-2430. For current real time streamflow information check the streamflow gauge provided by USGS and DNR: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/mo/nwis/uv/?site_no=07050152&PARAmeter_cd=00065,00060 (Report made on 4/16/2009)

White River Levels are available at :
http://www.srh.noaa.gov/lmrfc/forecast/tributaries/status_white.shtml

Lindsey's Resort (501-302-3139) said one generator is running but the water is a little off color. The water level is 3 feet higher than normal. Float fishing is best using brown Rapalas, spoons and silver/black or chartreuse Rooster Tails. Power Bait also is working well in high water.

Jed Hollan at the Little Red Fly Shop said the Greers Ferry Powerhouse has been releasing water from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Wade fishing is possible at Winkley Shoal (Swinging Bridge) and Libby Shoal each morning until the high water arrives (around 9:30 a.m. at Winkley and 11 p.m. at Libby). Aquatic insect hatches continue as predicted with midge, BWO, caddis and March browns being the primary players. Good dry flies to try include midge (sizes 22-28; cream), para Adams (sizes 18-20), American March brown (size 14), elk hair caddis (sizes 16-20; tan), blue winged olive mayfly (size 18) or crackleback (size 12). If you are fishing below the surface of the river, try a sow bug (sizes 14-16; tan, smoky olive, UV tan or peacock), chronic (size 14), zebra midge (sizes 16-22; red, black or copper), green or red @ss soft hackle (sizes 14-18), copper john (sizes 14-16; red or green), egg pattern (sizes 12-14; roe or salmon), San Juan worm (size 14; red or fl cerise) or woolly bugger (sizes 8-12; olive, brown or black).

John Berry from Berry Brothers Guide Service said the pattern on the White was for heavy generation around the clock. Water levels were particularly high at the beginning of the week and lower towards the end of the week.

Mountain River Fly Shop said the White River is back on strong, with good reports up and down the river. Several caddis species are hatching downstream, and the fish are gorging on them. Generation levels slowed some this week as Bull Shoals Lake fell below power pool level. The flies of choice have been larger midge patterns like Clint's black tungsten midge, super midges, San Juan worms and sow bugs.

Jim Brentlinger at Linger's Guide Service and Fishing Lodge (870-499-5185) said the last 10 days have been extremely difficult. Eight generators on at Bull Shoals and two on at Norfork dam have added to the difficult fishing. Normally when the bite gets tough you can still go to the bottom with Power Bait and enjoy success.

John Berry of Berry Brothers Guide Service said fishing on Crooked Creek has improved as water temperatures climbed to 58 degrees. However, recent rain has muddied up the creek and it will take several days to clear.

John Berry from Berry Brothers Guide Service said there was heavy generation on the Norfork early in the week, but several periods of no generation occurred as the week progressed. With current conditions and mild weather we could encounter some wadable water.
Jim Brentlinger at Linger's Guide Service and Fishing Lodge (870-499-5185) said the fishing is just as slow on the Norfork tailwater as it is on the White River. A Rattling Rogue in Blue/Silver/Orange will produce nice brown trout, but only a few on an all-day trip.

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS

Ken Richards at Just Fishing Guides said fishing has been slow. Trout are biting near the surface on midge emerger patterns. Soft-hackle flies have been working as well. Midge pupae, sow bugs and scuds are working well under a strike indicator. When all else fails, tie on a woolly bugger in olive and black and work it along the bottom.

Spring River:
Mark Crawford at Spring River Fly Shop said the water is low and the water clarity is fair. Fishing has been most productive on streamers and nymphs. High-stick nymphing on the bottom of the river is the key. Trout have so many food sources on the Spring River that they do not have to go far for food. Trout tend to stay on bottom and let the current bring the food to them.

WEST-CENTRAL ARKANSAS

Shane Goodner, owner of Catch'em All Guide Service, reports that high winds have kept many fishermen off the water for the past several days; however, the rainbow trout bite remains very good. Most good fishing is when the turbines are not running. As spring weather nears, insect hatches are on the rise which has caused the trout to actively feed on the available bugs. Fly-fishermen casting woolly buggers and micro-jigs in black and green under a strike indicator are having good success targeting the rising trout. Small white streamers have taken some of the larger trout as injured shad are scarce in the warmer temperatures. Egg patterns are the best bet. Bank fishermen continue to record limits on wax worms and meal worms under a bobber. Corn with a marshmallow floater is another deadly combination often used at Carpenter Dam.

April 9, 2009 - White River - Submitted by Berry Brothers Guides - Over the past week, we have had colder and then warmer weather conditions and some particularly heavy winds (complete with lake wind advisories). The lakes in the White River system have all fallen and all are near or below power pool. The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam fell one and two tenths of a foot to rest at eight tenths of a foot below power pool of 654.00 feet. This is forty one and eight tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Up stream, 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 seven tenths of a foot to rest at four tenths of a foot above power pool or nine and two tenths feet below the top of flood pool. The pattern on the White was for heavy generation around the clock. Water levels were particularly high at the beginning of the week and lower towards the end of the week. Norfork Lake has fallen seven tenths of a foot to rest at four tenths of a foot below power pool of 552.00 feet or twenty eight and four tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Early in the week, there was heavy generation on the Norfork and later in the week there were several periods of no generation. With current conditions and mild weather we could encounter some wadable water.

The big story this past week has been the overall poor quality of fishing. There has been some discussion that was brought about by no generation for a long period and then heavy generation for a long period. Large amounts of trash (aquatic weed, etc.) were washed down stream and the prevailing opinion was that this severely impacted the fishing.

The most effective way to fish during the past week has been to drift brightly colored San Juan worms and egg patterns. The most productive colors for the worms have been hot pink, cerise and red. The best colors for the eggs have been peach, pink and orange. The trick is to fish them deep. Make sure that you are banging the bottom. To accomplish this you will have to use very long leaders and a lot of lead. If you are not fishing in a Catch and Release section consider using a dropper. Tie an eighteen inch section of tippet to the bend of the hook on your main fly with an improved clinch knot. Then tie on a small nymph such as a zebra midge. You will be surprised at how many strikes you get on the bottom fly.

The other killer technique is to bang the bank with large streamers on sink tip or full sinking lines. Several anglers have reported success with large streamers (up to seven inches long and equipped with up to three hooks). The hot fly has been a Zoo cougar. Remember that, if you are fishing in Catch and Release water, you can only use one hook point. The secret here is to use the heaviest and fastest sinking fly line that you can. Heavy flies and fly lines like this require big rods, eight weights or better.

The upper river at the Bull Shoals Dam Catch and Release area has been the bright spot. The best fishing reports that I heard all week were about fishing here with egg patterns on high water. This area can get congested particularly on the weekend. Remember to practice fishing etiquette. Don't crowd others. There is plenty of water here for every one.

Rim Shoals has also been productive. Remember that this is the one place that has wadable water as long as the flows are below 17,000 cubic feet per second. The only way to access them is by boat. Arrange for a shuttle by water taxi at Rim Shoals Trout Dock. There is a nominal charge.

Fishing on Crooked Creek has improved as water temperatures climbed to fifty eight degrees. However, our recent rain events have muddied up the creek and it will take several days to clear.

The fishing on the Norfork has been slow. It has not fished well on high or low water recently. On the higher water the hot fly has been a hot pink or cerise San Juan worm. On lower water, the hot flies have been sowbugs and black zebra midges. The upper river at Quarry Park has fished a bit better than the lower river.

Dry Run Creek, as always, has fished particularly well during the past week. The key to success is to concentrate on deeper faster water. The best way to fish on the creek is to high stick nymphs with a strike indicator. The hot fly has been the sowbug. San Juan worms and woolly buggers have accounted for some nice fish. While you are there take a tour of the adjacent National Fish Hatchery. It is fascinating. Remember to remove your waders before entering the Hatchery to prevent the spread of aquatic diseases.

April 9, 2009 - Courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation

TROUT PARKS:

Bennett Spring State Park:

54 degrees, high, dingy; stream is up a few inches due to recent rains, somewhat off color; successful lures and baits include: jigs (black/yellow), ginger and pink; mini-jigs (brown roach and John Deere); glo balls (original tri-color and white); also successful are Rooster Tails, hot pink brassies, rainbow Power Baits and pink and black/yellow plastic worms. April fishing hours will be: 7:00 am to 7:30 pm. Weed cutting is planned for Tuesday, April 14 from 9am-3pm weather permitting. For current streamflow information check the streamflow gauge provided by USGS and DNR: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/mo/nwis/uv/?site_no=06923500&PARAmeter_cd=00065,00060 (Report made on 4/8/2009)

Maramec Spring Park:

58 degrees, falling, dingy; stream is up slightly and somewhat murky; still a greenish cast; use bright colors. (Report made on 4/9/2009)

Montauk State Park:

57 degrees, falling, clear; Fishing times are 7:00am to 7:30pm for the month of April. The water in the park is clear with good flow. Fishing is good. In the fly area scuds and mini marabou jigs suspended under a float are producing good numbers of fish, also Cracklebacks and brassies are producing well. Check at the lodge for other good fly choices; in the bait area, corn, doughbait and Power Baits in white, yellow, green, cheese and pink are producing good numbers of fish. Good fishing and good luck! (Report made on 4/9/2009)

Roaring River State Park:

57 degrees, rising, clear; water is up still but mostly clear; 2-3 lb test line is recommended; fishing is from 7:00 am until 7:30 pm; plastic eggs in white, brown and yellow or plastic worms in white, cheese, pink or orange are working well; Rooster Tails in black, skunk and brown are also working well; for current or detailed information call 417-847-2430. For current real time streamflow information check the streamflow gauge provided by USGS and DNR: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/mo/nwis/uv/?site_no=07050152&PARAmeter_cd=00065,00060 (Report made on 4/8/2009)

White River Levels are available at :
http://www.srh.noaa.gov/lmrfc/forecast/tributaries/status_white.shtml

Lindsey's Resort (501-302-3139) said two generators are running all day, but fishing is good from a boat. Drifting a nightcrawler or Power Bait below a float is working well. Casting spinners and Rapalas also is working well.

Jed Hollan at the Little Red Fly Shop said the Greers Ferry Powerhouse has been releasing copious amounts of water non-stop since March 30. The lake is near the preferred maximum (top power pool) of 461.44 feet above mean sea level and releases should soon be reduced. Instead of the 24 hour releases they've been doing, releases are now from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Wade fishing is possible at Winkley Shoal (Swinging' Bridge) and Libby Shoal each morning until the high water arrives (around 9:30 at Winkley and 11 at Libby).

John Berry from Berry Brothers Guide Service said the lakes in the White River system have all risen and all are currently above power pool. The pattern on the White was for heavy generation around the clock. Water levels for boating have been excellent. The big story has been the return of high water. The caddis are still coming off but with six or seven generators going on the White and two running on the Norfork, there is little if any top-water action. Local anglers reluctantly put away their four-weight rods and dry flies and pulled their heavier rods and high-water flies out once again. It is imperative that you not fish with a chain on water this high. It could grab the bottom and swamp your boat. The most effective way to fish during the past week has been to drift brightly colored San Juan worms and egg patterns. You need to use very long leaders and a lot of lead. Forget the small split shot. Use AAAs and heavily weighted flies. If you are not occasionally hanging up on the bottom, you are not doing it right. Of course, if you are using a lot of additional weight, you will need to use a very large strike indicator. The other killer technique is to bang the bank with large streamers on sink tip or full sinking lines. Several anglers have reported success with large streamers. The upper river at the Bull Shoals Dam catch-and-release area has been productive. There has been a lot of traffic here especially on the days after significant rainfall. When the water downstream is muddy or stained, you can always find clear water at the base of the dam. Rim Shoals has also been productive. Remember that this is the one place that has wadable water as long as the flows are below 17,000 cubic feet per second. The only way to access them is by boat. Arrange for a shuttle by water taxi at Rim Shoals Trout Dock.

Sportsman's White River Resort (870-453-2424) said the water is running high from generators running round the clock. Fishing from a boat is good with pink Power Bait and Little Cleos.

Jim Brentlinger at Linger's Guide Service and Fishing Lodge (870-499-5185) the last 10 days have been extremely difficult. Eight generators on at Bull Shoals and two on at Norfork dam have added to the difficult fishing. Normally when the bite gets tough you can still go to the bottom with Power Bait and enjoy success.

John Berry of Berry Brothers Guide Service said the water below Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River has been muddy and has not fished well. Fishing on Crooked Creek has improved as water temperatures climbed to fifty eight degrees. However, recent rain has muddied up the creek and it will take several days to clear.

John Berry from Berry Brothers Guide Service said there has been heavy generation on the Norfork with some brief periods of no generation. There was no generation on Sunday. The fishing on the Norfork has been slow. When the water was down last Sunday, the White was high and the Norfork was backed up far up stream from the Ackerman Access. Quarry Park fared a bit better and was fishing well. On the higher water, use the same high water tactics as on the White River. Dry Run Creek has fished particularly well during the past week, even when it was high and muddy. When the water was low and clear, the most productive fly was a sowbug.
Jim Brentlinger at Linger's Guide Service and Fishing Lodge (870-499-5185) said the fishing is just as slow on the Norfork tailwater as it is on the White River. A Rattling Rogue in Blue/Silver/Orange will produce nice Browns, but only a few on an all-day trip.

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS

Ken Richards at Just Fishing Guides said fishing has been a little slow. Trout are biting near the surface on midge emerger patterns. Soft hackle flies have been working as well. Midge pupae, sowbugs and scuds are working well under a strike indicator. When all else fails, tie on a woolly bugger in olive and black and work it along the bottom.

Spring River:
Mark Crawford at Spring River Fly Shop said water levels are low and water clarity is fair. Fishing has been most productive on streamers and nymphs. High stick nymphing on the bottom of the river is the key. Trout have so many food sources on the Spring River that they do not have to go far for food. Trout tend to stay on bottom and let the current bring the food to them.

WEST-CENTRAL ARKANSAS