Sports
Beaver Lake tailwater fishing report
By Arkansas Game & Fish Commission
Jul 10, 2026
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Goshen, Arkansas -- Guide Austin Kennedy (479-244-0039) says the Beaver tailwater has been changing almost daily as the Army Corps of Engineers continues releasing water through both the spillway and hydropower units. Those releases have caused water temperatures to fluctuate more than usual, and the trout have definitely noticed.

The trout bite has been a bit of a roller coaster. During periods of cooler water and increased generation, fish have been more active. As temperatures climb between releases, trout tend to become less aggressive and hold in areas with stronger current and better oxygen.

If you’re targeting trout right now, focus on fishing early in the morning whenever possible. Target current seams, deeper runs and oxygen-rich water. Drift natural baits under a float or present them naturally along the bottom. Small spoons, inline spinners, marabou jigs and finesse soft plastics can also produce when worked slowly. Don’t be afraid to downsize your presentation during warmer parts of the day, as trout often become more selective.

Patience is the key right now. When the water cools with fresh releases, feeding windows can open quickly.

“If you’ve been looking for consistent action, now is a great time to take advantage of our new Beaver Tailwaters Multi-Species Trips. Instead of focusing solely on trout, we’re targeting walleye, crappie, bass and perch — and the fishing has been outstanding.

“Common techniques that have been producing include vertical-jigging soft plastics and hair jigs for walleye; live minnows or small jigs around timber and structure for crappie; Ned rigs, finesse worms, tubes and small swimbaits for bass; and light tackle with small jigs or live bait for perch.

“The biggest advantage of a multi-species trip is that if one bite slows down, there’s almost always another species ready to cooperate. It keeps rods bending, gives anglers the chance to catch several different species in one trip, and showcases just how diverse the Beaver tailwater fishery really is.

“As always, be sure to monitor generation schedules before heading out, as changing water levels and temperatures can quickly alter fish behavior. Stay safe, adapt to the conditions and good luck on the water!”

Visit the ‘Resources’ section of Austin’s new website, www.buschmountainfishing.net, to learn more.