Hardy, Arkansas -- Mark Crawford with springriverfliesandguides.com (870-955-8300) said water levels are running at 300 cfs (350 cfs is average) and water clarity is mostly clear. Thursday and Friday of last week, there was enough rain to stir the water up and mess up fishing for two days, then it was back to low and clear by Monday. “The river is still well below average flows. I need it to get up another foot for some of the lower smallmouth stretches. Thankfully with a raft, there is no problem floating down trout waters, but I would advise loading light.
“The trout have been hitting nymphs and, on a good day, dry flies. Hopper droppers have been productive and a lot of fun, with nymphs in smaller sizes for droppers, with the clearer clarity. Cloudy days are perfect for streamer/Woolly action. Not much weight is needed on flies with the low-water conditions. On the bright sunny days, drop a Y2K or pink worm below a hopper and let it ride.
“The smallies are hitting good and have been focusing on baitfish along the shoreline. Low water has the bass herding the baitfish in the shallows. Perfect popper conditions on the really good days when it works. Big, unweighted Woollies can be the ticket in the shallows, but go heavy with flies below falls to chase the big fish. And you’ve got to get down.
“The ‘canoe hatch’ has been light with the overcast conditions. Fishing with a relatively quiet river can be had through the week and on a Sunday. Please be safe on Saturdays when the paddling folks are having fun.
Access areas in town tend to be float-free of folks. Fish early to miss the canoe hatch, take a break and it should pass by 4 p.m., grab the rod and go back to it. Late evening has had the best caddis and mayfly hatches, just before dusk.
“The low water has allowed for easier wading on the river. As always, be safe out there, the river bottom is very slick. A wading staff can really help with wading and scaring away pesky critters.”
Crawford’s website includes regular updates on his blog along with videos and photos. Check it out.
