Bull Shoals Lake measured 662.01 feet msl Wednesday, fast approaching desired power pool elevation, with generation continuing with three units (9,000 cfs) in the morning, rising a little earlier than it has been, to almost 12,000 cfs (four generators) by midafternoon.

“Browns have been hiding in the deep holes and biting on sculpin and crawdad tails. Wouldn’t hurt to tie on a Rebel WeeCraw or TeenyCraw and watch for a chase. There’s been a late-afternoon surge in the brown bite this past week, which is a little uncommon but might be attributed to the changing pressure systems and the occasional pop-up showers.

“Rainbows are hitting gold spinners and pink and white PowerBait mousetails. The always popular red/gold hammered Thomas Buoyant Spoon is living up to its reputation by adding to the count. Keep a cup of nightcrawlers or redworms on hand and play them close to the banks just a foot or so below the surface, especially in rising water. Try inflating a nightcrawler for more buoyancy and for a heck of a catch.

“Treat yourself to some time on the river. You’ll return home refreshed, revived and thankful for all the great outdoors in The Natural State has to offer.”

Calico Rock Area

(updated 7-9-2026) Dave McCulley, owner of Jenkins Fishing Service in Calico Rock, said, “Last week we saw the river crest in the morning around 10 feet, dropping throughout the day to about 8 feet. We continue to have success drift-fishing using silver inline spinners with a No. 2 hook with two Uncommon Bait UV eggs and tipped with shrimp. Put a sinker, about a size 7 split shot, 8-12 inches above the hook. The key is to get the bait to the bottom, if needed, add an additional size 7.

“Rapala Countdowns in CD5 or CD7 in brown trout and rainbow trout colors and Dynamic HD Trout Ghost Brown have worked well when fishing near the bank or up into the creeks. In addition to some nice trout being caught, we have had a few smallmouth and largemouth bass caught.