Rebuilding the Fins of Beaver Lake: Arkansas Walleye Conservation Efforts
The Beaver Lake fishery in Arkansas has seen significant strides in reestablishing its walleye population, thanks to the tireless efforts of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Walleye, once a native species in the lake, have become a marquis species, attracting anglers from near and far.
The conservation journey began years ago, with a focus on reestablishing these iconic fish. This diligence has paid off, as anglers today are reaping the rewards of the Commission’s dedicated work. Walleye are thriving in the lake, and fishing enthusiasts have had excellent catches in the White River below Beaver Dam and in the Kings River arm of Table Rock Lake.
Anglers like Robert Smith have found great success using nightcrawler harness baits in the White and War Eagle river tributaries. Smith trolled his rigs slowly, around 1 mph, keeping the nightcrawlers near the bottom. This method has yielded impressive catches, including two walleye over 6 pounds each in the Kings River arm of Table Rock Lake.
Fishing guides like Jon Conklin have also reported excellent walleye fishing below Beaver Dam. The Army Corps of Engineers’ controlled water releases through the spillway gates have enhanced the catching, as these releases stimulate spawning walleye to move upstream.
Fishing pressure for white bass has been less impressive, despite their presence in the White and War Eagle tributaries. The lake’s white bass population is prone to sputtering, but efforts are in place to improve the catch rates. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission continues to monitor and fine-tune the conservation efforts, ensuring a thriving walleye population for generations to come.
