The water level has returned to a fairly consistent flow of one generator (3,000 cfs) for now, although Bull Shoals Lake is rising and is nearly 18 feet above power pool, sitting at 679.32 feet msl.
D2 jigs with orange heads (Peaches or the Brown Trout D2) have been the wonder baits on this lower water. Don’t stray too far from any rainbow-patterned baits (Rooster Tails, Rapala Countdowns No. 5 or 7 or red/gold hammered spoons) for a quick bite. A red wiggler or a juicy nightcrawler tied on in the afternoon, if generation flow increases, will always attract some trout.
“Low water levels on some mornings make it easy to catch a sculpin or two to put at the end of your line and lure the larger browns. There have been numerous days with catches of 10 browns or more. Shad or shad-wannabe baits continue to cause a stir, too.
Visit the White River in Arkansas Ozark country — take time to slow down, catch your breath and relax. Concede to the peace and leave it be for a day or two while you catch a few trout.
Calico Rock Area
(updated 5-8-2025) Dave McCulley, owner of Jenkins Fishing Service in Calico Rock, said, “Beginning last Friday, we have seen reduced water releases from both Bull Shoals and Norfork dams. Our water levels have gone from over 14 feet to around 8 feet. The water conditions have improved significantly, and we are seeing great fishing as a result. The water remains dingy but not dirty. Drift-fishing with silver-colored inline spinners with two Uncommon Bait UV eggs and tipped with either shrimp, corn or worms has worked well. On average, we are seeing some nice limits of rainbows with many fish just under 14 inches and one fish over 14 inches. Drift-fishing with sculpins resulted in some bigger rainbows and brown trout being caught.
“With the lower water, we are seeing more success with Rapala Countdowns or Dynamic J-Spec lures in rainbow trout colors.
“The weather forecast (as of Wednesday) shows days with rain chances, but as of now, most of the rain is late afternoon into the night with not much accumulation. Good for the hay fields without the river rising and becoming muddy.
“This week, we received one stocking of rainbow trout at the Calico Rock boat ramp. Mother’s Day is this weekend, and we wish all mothers to have a great day.”
