Get ready for an exciting fishing adventure in Arkansas, where the waters are teeming with life despite the chilly weather! Grandfather Martin Nichols and his grandson, Thadius, recently braved the cooler temperatures at Millwood Lake in southwestern Arkansas, reeling in crappie and bass with the help of Millwood Lake Guide Service. But here's the kicker: their success story is just the tip of the iceberg. Crappie and bass are putting up a fierce fight across the state, even as winter tightens its grip. And this is the part most people miss: the Arkansas Wildlife Weekly Fishing Report is your secret weapon to stay ahead of the game, offering bi-weekly updates through February (except for Christmas and New Year’s Day).
Controversially, the AGFC has implemented temporary harvest rules for trout on the Little Red River, limiting anglers to a two-trout catch with no fish over 14 inches allowed until at least February 16. This move, sparked by the loss of stocking trout at two hatcheries, has divided opinions among anglers. Some see it as necessary to protect the fishery, while others feel it unfairly restricts their enjoyment. What’s your take? Should conservation take precedence over angler freedom, or is there a middle ground? Let’s spark a debate in the comments!
For those targeting bass, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Bass Fishing Team reports that shad-colored bladed jigs and spinnerbaits are your best bet on wind-blown points. But here’s a pro tip: don’t overlook the power of small dark-colored jigs and soft plastics in calmer conditions, especially near wood and docks. And here’s where it gets even more intriguing: the cold weather might push fish into deeper waters, but they’ll still bite for a few more weeks before the winter slowdown.
Over at Lake Overcup, John ‘Catfish’ Banks notes that bass are still chasing shad, and bream are taking crickets and redworms. Meanwhile, Lake Maumelle is giving up its secrets for black bass, with largemouths lurking in depths of 15-20 feet. Jigs, Alabama rigs, and crankbaits are your go-to lures here. But here’s the twist: spotted bass are mixing it up with the largemouths, and they’re responding best to drop-shot rigs, Carolina rigs, jigs, and cranks.
For the fly-fishing enthusiasts, the Little Red River is a winter wonderland. Mike Winkler of Little Red River Fly Fishing Trips recommends nymphing in the morning and streamer fishing or deep-water nymph rigs in higher flows. But here’s the catch: the brown trout spawn is in full swing, so you’ll need to tread carefully to avoid disturbing the redds. Handle all trout with care, especially the spawners, and remember the temporary harvest rules.
As we wrap up, let’s not forget the smaller waters. Lake Poinsett is holding steady, with anglers using minnows to land bass and catfish. And at Spring River, despite a tough year for trout, other species like spotted bass and rock bass are stepping up to the plate. But here’s the question: with the trout population taking a hit, should we be doing more to protect these iconic fish, or is it time to embrace the diversity of species in our rivers? Share your thoughts below—let’s keep the conversation going!
