Guess who’s fishing our waters this time of year? Eagles. Many have never seen one, so here are some hot spots for you to get your eyes full of these magical birds.
SWEPCO’s Flint Creek Power Plant in Northwest Arkansas has been home to the Eagle Watch Nature Trail since 1999. SWEPCO Lake attracts wintering American Bald Eagles. The half-mile Eagle Watch Nature Trail leads to two pavilions along the lake. Hwy. 12, Gentry, Ark.
If hiking is not on your agenda, you might want to try this alternative. Described below is a 23-mile long driving route through Benton County. This tour starts at the intersection of Hwys. 12 and 59 in Gentry. It ends at the intersection of Hwys. 43 and 72 in Maysville. Snacks, gas, and bathrooms are available at both ends, but not along the 23-mile route.
The Kings River is my all-time favorite place to see eagles. I have seen the most on a float that a group of us used to take every year on January 1 and it was always spectacular. My highest count in one setting was 22. We put in at Golden, Mo., and got out at Stoney Point.
A nice roost is located every year in a bluff-lined bend about a mile upstream from where Rockhouse Creek enters the river. Trigger Gap also has a riverside roost that can be seen from Hwy. 221.
And finally, Beaver Lake and our beautiful White River are some of best places. Bald eagles mate for life. This year we have seen one eagle all year long and all by itself. I’m guessing the other partner has deceased and this one decided to stay and keep us entertained all year. And he/she has put on a show. Swooping down to get the catch of the day and then swinging by the boat to show off.
Hey, call me if you want to float together Jan. 1, whether you have a canoe or kayak. It’s a Happy Holidays float in search of more eagles.
Get more info and pictures on Facebook. Custom Adventures Guide Service (479) 363-9632 Take kid eagle watching!