September 18, 2024 Arkansas Trout Fishing Report

Pictures taken September 11, 2024 thru September 18, 2024.
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Bull Shoals Lake is currently at 654.23 msl, five feet below the established goal of 659. Releases from the dam satisfy power demands and have been nominal, sticking to their recent pattern of minimum flows during the late evening and morning, followed by a quick rise to almost five units (15,000 cfs) later in the afternoon.

The brown trout bite is getting tricky, patience wins out and is required to get their attention. Soft shell crawdads are a favorite in addition to the familiar sculpin. Consistent water levels have allowed the trout to settle down into a normal feeding routine, so early morning and early evening are the best times for reliable catches. Float your bait just above the bottom, best to keep it in or near the river channel during low-water generation. The changes in water level will naturally necessitate revamping your bait and placement; cast a live worm or a dandy San Juan fly near the bank as the water rises.

The rainbows continue to chase a shrimp/PowerBait merger, with orange and pink leading the color choice. Under an overcast, cloudy sky, work a Rooster Tail with a gold blade, pink body or a Blue Fox with a rainbow blade, gold bell. When the sun comes out, put the artificial baits away and return to the scented or live baits.

Early fall is a great time to get on the water without having to sweat the temperatures or the catch. Keep angling and we'll see you on the river.