Water flowing with some warm spring rains moves fish that spawn in current, going as far up the creeks and rivers as far as they can go. Start looking for the white bass to be in the back of the creeks as soon as the mud clears, and the mud will clear in the back before the main channels which is happening as you read this.
Find a spot where you can fish from the shoreline or go up by boat. They will hit about anything that looks like a minnow. When you get into them expect to fill your live well or stringer fast which can put a lot of fresh meat in your freezer.
Look for walleye to be feeding in the water pretty close to the whites as their spawn comes to an end. Look for crappie to be moving into the shoreline brush. A jig and minnow under a float is a good way to find them.
Look for bass to be moving up into the shallower water as the sun warms it up first. Stripers on Beaver Lake are doing as the whites here at Holiday Island. They are being caught shallower up the White and War Eagle Arms and above the midline north of Hwy. 12 bridge near Rogers.
Shad and brood shiners are your best live bait. Top water baits are also putting them in the boat.
Spoonbill season will be open April 15. I will be getting back into it this year with snagging tackle for sale here at Dogwood Corner and below the dam when I’m snagging. Will share more on the rules next week.
Dogwood Market will not be opening with the dogwoods due to this virus But we will be open as soon as it’s safe.
I am still doing guide trips so if you need to get out in some fresh air, I believe fishing is safe. I am also giving a special rate till this is over. If you want to get out on your own here’s a bit of info for you that can change at anytime.
Lake Leatherwood park hiking trails and launch is open 9 to 5, so grab a pole and go. Their number is (479) 253-7921. Corps Park boat launches are open on Beaver Lake. Camping is not.
Let’s enjoy our outdoors, folks. If you don’t fish, find a trail. Walk in the woods. Just sit and take it all in. Be thankful you live in the Ozarks. That’s what made this town and that we still have. Be safe.