Pictured is Kalan from Kansas with a trophy rainbow he caught on his birthday!
Water levels on the Beaver Tailwaters remain low as we continue to wait on some much-needed rainfall across Northwest Arkansas.
The trout bite has been fair, but with the lower water conditions, fish are becoming more spread out. Anglers should concentrate on deeper holes, current seams, and areas where moving water meets deeper pockets. Covering water is important right now rather than spending too much time in one location.
For trout, Pautzke Fire Bait remains a good option, along with small spoons, jigs, and other presentations that allow you to work different depths. With the clear, low water, a lighter line and a more natural presentation can make a noticeable difference.
Walleye continue to be worth targeting farther downstream toward Holiday Island. White grubs and paddle tails worked slowly along the bottom are good choices, particularly around deeper holes, current breaks, and structure.
The biggest thing the tailwaters could use right now is rain. A good round of rainfall would help increase flow and change conditions throughout the system. Until then, expect lower water, scattered trout, and a bite that rewards anglers willing to move and locate active fish.
Beaver Lake is beginning its fall transition, and we’re starting to see signs of turnover. That means conditions can change quickly from one part of the lake to another, and fish may not always be where you found them a few days earlier.
The good news is the striper bite is still going strong. Anglers targeting stripers should continue watching their electronics closely for both bait and active fish. Don’t be afraid to move—finding the bait is one of the biggest keys right now. Live shad continues to be an excellent option when fish are located.
As turnover progresses, expect some areas of the lake to temporarily become tougher to fish as oxygen levels and water temperatures begin mixing. Other areas may remain productive, so covering water and paying attention to what your electronics are showing will be increasingly important.
Walleye and other species will also begin adjusting as water temperatures continue falling. Look for fish around points, channel edges, brush, and other structure where bait is present. Fall can produce some excellent multi-species fishing on Beaver Lake once conditions begin settling down.
We’re officially entering one of the most interesting transitions of the year. Stay mobile, follow the bait, trust your electronics, and don’t assume yesterday’s pattern will be today’s pattern.
Austin Kennedy, Busch Mountain Fishing Guide Service