It’s shaping up to be a hot week here in Arkansas, with forecasted highs staying in the mid to upper 90s and very little chance of rain. With those above-average temps, the SWPA (South West Power Administration) has been running a little more water to meet power demand. Lately, we’ve been seeing 2 units of water coming online around 4 p.m. and running for about 4 hours. My hunch is this schedule will stay consistent throughout the week.
The good news is those extra releases are keeping water temps cool all the way downriver, which is great for both the trout and the anglers. The flows have been setting up excellent fishing conditions whether you’re floating from a boat or wade fishing in the right spots.
The nymph bite has been solid and should stay that way with the added water. Some hot flies right now include:
Pheasant Tail Soft Hackles
Guide’s Choice Hare’s Ears
Midges
Attractor patterns like Eggs and San Juan Worms
If you’re looking to get out, this week offers a great window—just plan around the afternoon generation schedule, and you’ll find some quality fishing.