Bull Shoals Lake is close to the targeted power pool of 659 feet msl, and releases from the dam are reflecting the lake level with about one unit (3,000 cfs) flowing around the clock — much healthier for the trout than the very low water earlier this autumn.

Successful catches this week started with mid-action spinners (Vibrax Blue Foxes were a hit, sliver with a blue blade or standard gold) and spoons (always start with the red-gold Thomas Buoyant). If you prefer bait, the guides are first using redworms; second, shrimp with orange or sunrise egg patterns. Pink-scented worms attracted a fair share of rainbows. We’re seeing healthy, good-sized rainbows with a lot of color, red cheeks and bright pink stripes.

The browns are not immune to bait now even during the spawn season, but they’re mostly striking in an attempt to get rid of the annoyance. Drift a sculpin and you’ll get more attention. Be careful not to disturb the spawning beds (the redds) if you motor through spawning areas around Rim Shoals and downriver from the catch-and-release at the dam.

Thanksgiving weekend is just around the corner so we’ll be seeing more visitors to the area and an increase in river traffic. Be thoughtful toward (and thankful for) other anglers and for the natural resources that are so well maintained here in our natural state of Arkansas. We look forward to seeing you and sharing fishing stories.