John Berry

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 6/23/2011 During the past week, we have had a rain event, cooler temperatures and heavy winds. The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam fell eight tenths of a foot to rest at thirty six and seven tenths feet above power pool of 654.00 feet. This is four and three tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake fell one and two tenths feet to rest at nine and eight tenths feet above power pool or six and two tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake fell four tenths of a foot to rest at seven and eight tenths feet above power pool or one and eight tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, all of the flood gates have been closed and we have had moderate generation all day with no wadable water. Norfork Lake fell one and two tenths feet to rest at twenty three and one tenth feet above power pool of 552.00 feet or four and nine tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork the flood gated been closed and went to a summer generation schedule with moderate generation at night and high generation during times of peak demand. When the flood gates were open on the White and Norfork the seals around the flood gates were possibly damaged by debris flowing through them. As a result, there is more water flowing through the dam than normal. The Corps of Engineers is monitoring the situation and will inspect and repair them if necessary, when lake levels are low enough for them to do so. The best place to fish was the upper river from Bull Shoals State Park down to White Hole. The key to fishing the high flows has been to fish long leader/tippet combinations (twelve feet or longer), very heavy weight (two or more AAA split shot) and a large strike indicator set at the top of the leader. The go to flies have been brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns in pink or orange. There has been some sulphur action reported. The best fly for this hatch would be the sulphur parachute. Another hot spot was Rim Shoals. The hot flies were brightly colored San Juan worms and egg patterns. To increase the possibility of hook ups consider adding a copper John nymph. If you want to wade, Rim Shoals Trout Dock runs a water taxi and will ferry you to wadable water and bring you back for a moderate fee. The thirteen year Cicadas are hatching. These insects hatch every thirteen years. They are large dark insects that make a loud chirping sound. Many of these insects make their way into the river where they are large tempting morsels for trout to feed on. This provides for some fabulous dry fly fishing. There are good Cicada patterns at the local fly shops or you can use a black Chernobyl ant. Use a stout rod and a heavy leader to turn over the large flies. Work the bank and be prepared for a vicious take. Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are low and clear. The water temperature is right on and the small mouths action has been red hot! Several anglers have reported success with Clouser minnows and crawfish patterns. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The action has picked up a bit on the Norfork. With the generators back on line, the water temperature has dropped back to levels comfortable for trout. The ramp at Quarry Park was severely damaged when the flood gates were opened significantly to relieve the dam and is being repaired. Check the ramp before attempting to launch to ensure that it is usable. With the White fishing well, the Norfork received much less pressure this past week. On high water, the best technique has been to drift brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns (pink and orange). Some anglers have reported success banging the bank with thirteen year cicada patterns. Others have had success fishing sulphur dry fly patterns. Try size fourteen sulphur parachutes. Dry Run Creek has fished well. The hot flies have been sowbugs and various colored San Juan worms (worm brown, red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise). This spot is very popular with locals and visitors and can get a bit crowded. The fish are everywhere and you can achieve success anywhere on the creek. Remember to use heavy tippet (at least 4X) and carry a big net. Do not forget to take a camera. The water level on the Spring River is lower and clearer. This is a great place to wade fish. However, there are many canoeists there this time of year, particularly on the weekends. If you wish to escape them, fish the upper section near the Lassiter Access. If you do fish there, be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been the Dam Three Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise and hot pink San Juan worms and Y2Ks. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 6/16/2011 During the past week, we have had a couple of minor rain events, hot temperatures and moderate winds. The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam fell four tenths of a foot to rest at thirty seven and five tenths feet above power pool of 654.00 feet. This is three and five tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake fell six tenths of a foot to rest at eleven feet above power pool or five feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake fell four tenths of a foot to rest at eight and two tenths feet above power pool or one and four tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, all of the flood gates have been closed and we have gone to a summer schedule with lighter generation at night and heavier generation during peak power demand. There were significant periods of wadable water over the past weekend. Norfork Lake fell seven tenths of a foot to rest at twenty four and three tenths feet above power pool of 552.00 feet or three and seven tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork the flood gated been closed and they are also adopting a summer generation schedule. There has been some limited wadable water at night. When the flood gates were open on the White and Norfork, there were numerous warm water species that entered the river. Some are predators (walleye and stripers) and should be removed. If you catch one or more, you can harvest them as long as you comply with Arkansas Game and Fish Commission regulations. The best place to fish was the upper river from the Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam down to White Hole. The key to fishing the high flows has been to fish long leader/tippet combinations (twelve feet or longer), very heavy weight (two or more AAA split shot) and a large strike indicator set at the top of the leader. The go to flies have been brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns in pink or orange. On lower flows, many anglers did well with small midges and light tippets. The hot flies were zebra midges and Dan’s turkey tail emerger. Another hot spot was Rim Shoals. It has been receiving some productive flows in the morning and on low water fished particularly well. On higher flows the hot flies were brightly colored San Juan worms and egg patterns. On lower flows, traditional nymphs like copper Johns, sowbugs and midge patterns all did well. There were some respectable caddis hatches. Partridge and orange soft hackles have been the go to fly during this hatch. The thirteen year Cicadas are hatching. These insects hatch every thirteen years. They are large dark insects that make a loud chirping sound. Many of these insects make their way into the river where they are large tempting morsels for trout to feed on. This provides for some fabulous dry fly fishing. There are good Cicada patterns at the local fly shops or you can use a black Chernobyl ant. Use a stout rod and a heavy leader to turn over the large flies. Work the bank and be prepared for a vicious take. Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are much lower and clear. The water temperature is right on and the small mouths action has been red hot! Several anglers have reported success with Clouser minnows and crawfish patterns. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The action has picked up a bit on the Norfork. With the generators back on line, the water temperature has dropped back to levels comfortable for trout. The ramp at Quarry Park was severely damaged when the flood gates were opened significantly to relieve the dam and is not usable. With the White fishing well, the Norfork received much less pressure this past week. On high water, the best technique has been to drift brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns (pink and orange). Some anglers have reported success banging the bank with thirteen year cicada patterns. Others have had success fishing sulphur dry fly patterns. Try size fourteen sulphur parachutes. Dry Run Creek has fished well. The hot flies have been sowbugs and various colored San Juan worms (worm brown, red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise). The creek is located in a tight valley and is normally much cooler than the surrounding area. This is a great place to beat the heat. With school out for the summer, it is receiving a bit more pressure. Remember that there are trout everywhere. The water level on the Spring River is lower and clearer. This is a great place to wade fish. There are many canoeists there this time of year, particularly on the weekends. If you wish to escape them, fish the upper section near the Lassiter Access. If you do fish there, be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been the Dam Three Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise and hot pink San Juan worms and Y2Ks. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 6/09/2011 During the past week, we have had no rain, hot temperatures (some say hot) and generally mild winds. The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam fell one and seven tenths feet to rest at thirty seven and nine tenths feet above power pool of 654.00 feet. This is three and one tenth feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake fell two and three tenths feet to rest at eleven and six tenths feet above power pool or four and four tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake fell two tenths of a foot to rest at eight and six tenths feet above power pool or a foot below the top of flood pool. On the White, we had heavy generation with significant flows through the flood gates to compensate for two generators being offline for repairs. There has been no wadable water. Norfork Lake fell one and seven tenths feet to rest at twenty five feet above power pool of 552.00 feet or three tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, one of the generators is down for repair and six flood gates are open to lower the lake level. There has been no wadable water. The best estimate of when we would receive wadable water is late summer. With the flood gates open on the White, there are numerous warm water species that are coming through to the river. When the flood gates are open, the water going through them is drawn from the top of the water column. This water is warmer than the water lower in the lake, which is drawn through the generators. As a result, the temperature in the river is warmer than normal. This situation is worsened by the rising air temperatures, which were in the nineties this week. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is carefully monitoring the situation. This was recently mitigated by a decrease in the water flowing through the flood gates on the White and one of the two generators down for repair on the Norfork being brought back on line. Now that the White is back in its banks, several anglers have reported success. The best place to fish was the upper river from Bull Shoals State Park down to White Hole. The key to fishing the high flows has been to fish long leader/tippet combinations (twelve feet or longer), very heavy weight (two or more AAA split shot) and a large strike indicator set at the top of the leader. The go to flies have been brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns in pink or orange. The thirteen year Cicadas are hatching. These insects hatch every thirteen years. They are large dark insects that make a loud chirping sound. Many of these insects make their way into the river where they are large tempting morsels for trout to feed on. This provides for some fabulous dry fly fishing. There are good Cicada patterns at the local fly shops or you can use a black Chernobyl ant. Use a stout rod and a heavy leader to turn over the large flies. Work the bank and be prepared for a vicious take. Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are much lower and clear. The water temperature is right on and the small mouths are getting active. Several anglers have reported success with Clouser minnows and crawfish patterns. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The Norfork has had a constant but heavy flow. The ramp at Quarry Park was severely damaged when the flood gates were opened significantly to relieve the dam and is not usable. With the White back in its banks and fishing well, the Norfork received much less pressure this past week. On high water the best technique has been to drift brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns (pink and orange). Some anglers have reported success banging the bank with thirteen year cicada patterns. Others have had success fishing sulphur dry fly patterns. Try size fourteen sulphur parachutes. With the flood gates open, there have been reports of warm water species like stripers that have escaped into the river. They have been spotted in the area of the outflow from Dry Run Creek. Dry Run Creek has fished well. The hot flies have been sowbugs and various colored San Juan worms (worm brown, red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise). Use heavy tippet (at least 4X). Most fish are lost at the net. Bring a big net (a boat net is perfect). Carefully revive and quickly release all trout. While you are there take a few minutes to visit the adjacent National Fish Hatchery. Remember that it is involved in a budget crunch and could lose funding. Contact your Senator or Congressman and let them know how important it is to our fishery. The water level on the Spring River is lower and clearer. This is a great place to wade fish. If you do fish there, be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been the Dam Three Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise and hot pink San Juan worms and Y2Ks. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 6/02/2011 During the past week, we have had no rain, ever warmer temperatures (some say hot) and milder winds. The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam fell two and six tenths feet to rest at thirty nine and six tenths feet above power pool of 654.00 feet. This is one and six tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake fell five and one tenth feet to rest at thirteen and nine tenths feet above power pool or two and one tenth feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake remains at eight and eight tenths feet above power pool or eight tenths of a foot below the top of flood pool. On the White, we had heavy generation with significant flows through the flood gates to compensate for two generators being offline for repairs. There has been no wadable water. Norfork Lake fell six tenths of a foot to rest at twenty six and seven tenths of a foot above power pool of 552.00 feet or one and three tenths of a foot below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, the generators are down for repair and the flood gates are open to lower the lake level. The level of outflow is the equivalent of maximum generation or two full generators and there has been no wadable water. With the flood gates open on the White, there are numerous warm water species that are coming through to the river. When the flood gates are open, the water going through them is drawn from the top of the water column. This water is warmer than the water lower in the lake, which is drawn through the generators. As a result, the temperature in the river is warmer than normal. This situation is worsened by the rising air temperatures, which hit the nineties this week. On the White, the water temperature hit sixty three at Red Bud. On the Norfork, the water temperature hit sixty five below Norfork Dam and sixty six at the Ackerman access. Rainbow will generally not feed in water above sixty seven degrees and browns will not feed in water over sixty eight. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is carefully monitoring the situation. This could be mitigated by a planned decrease in the water flowing through the flood gates on the White and one of the two generators down for repair on the Norfork being put back on line. Despite the huge releases from Bull Shoals Dam, which caused flooding on the White, several anglers reported success. The best place to fish was the upper river from Bull Shoals Dam down to White Hole. The key to fishing the high flows has been to fish long leader/tippet combinations (fourteen feet or longer), very heavy weight (two or more AAA split shot) and a large strike indicator set at the top of the leader. The go to flies have been brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns in pink or orange. The most effective places to fish have been eddies behind breakwaters. Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are much lower and clear. The water temperature is right on and the small mouths are getting active. Several anglers have reported success with Clouser minnows and crawfish patterns. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The Norfork has had a constant but heavy flow. The ramp at Quarry Park was severely damaged when the flood gates were opened significantly to relieve the dam and is not usable. With the White flooded, most of the anglers were on the Norfork and it was crowded. On high water the best technique has been to drift brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns (pink and orange). Some anglers have reported success banging the bank with thirteen year cicada patterns. These are large dark insects that hatch every thirteen years. They have been using Chernobyl Ants as an effective pattern. With the flood gates open, there have been reports of warm water species like stripers that have escaped into the river. They have been spotted in the area of the outflow from Dry Run Creek. Dry Run Creek has fished well. The hot flies have been sowbugs and various colored San Juan worms (worm brown, red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise). Use heavy tippet (at least 4X). Most fish are lost at the net. Bring a big net (a boat net is perfect). Carefully revive and quickly release all trout. With the water temperatures rising on the Norfork, many trout have sought refuge on Dry Run Creek, particularly the lower section. The water level on the Spring River is lower and clearer. If you do fish there, be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been the Dam Three Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise and hot pink San Juan worms and Y2Ks. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 5/26/2011 During the past week, we have had heavy rain, warm temperatures and heavy winds (to include lake wind advisories, flash flood warnings and severe thunder storm warnings). The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam rose three and seven tenths of a foot to rest at forty two feet above power pool of 654.00 feet. This is one foot above the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake rose six and one tenth feet to rest at nineteen feet above power pool or three feet above the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake remains at eight and eight tenths feet above power pool or eight tenths of a foot below the top of flood pool. On the White, we had heavy generation with additional flows through the flood gates to compensate for two generators being offline for repairs and large inflows from Beaver and Table Rock. There has been no wadable water. The level of outflow is at flood stage and is extremely dangerous to navigate. Norfork Lake rose one and seven tenths of a foot to rest at twenty seven and three tenths of a foot above power pool of 552.00 feet or seven tenths of a foot below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, the generators are down for repair and the flood gates are open to lower the lake level. The level of outflow is the equivalent of maximum generation or two full generators and there has been no wadable water. All of the lakes on the White River System have risen are all are over or near the top of flood pool. The Corps of Engineers have opened the flood gates on all of the dams to prevent their failure. All of the ramps on the White are flooded. The water levels are too high for angling of any kind. It is not considered safe until the river level is lowered to its normal high water level of approximately 26,000 cubic feet per second or the equivalent of eight full generators. With the flood gates open on the White, there are numerous warm water species that are coming through the flood gates. Before the huge releases from Bull Shoals Dam, the best place to fish was the Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam. The key to fishing the high flows has been to fish long leader/tippet combinations (twelve to fourteen feet), very heavy weight (two AAA split shot) and a large strike indicator set at the top of the leader. The go to flies have been brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns in pink or orange. Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are high and stained. The water temperature is right on and the small mouths are getting active. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The Norfork has had a constant but heavy flow. The ramp at Quarry Park was severely damaged when the flood gates were opened significantly to relieve the dam and is not usable. With the ramp at the confluence flooded some anglers have been launching their boats from the road near Roses Trout Dock. This should be done with great care. With the flood gates open, there have been reports of warm water species like stripers that have escaped into the river. They have been spotted in the area of the outflow from Dry Run Creek. The best technique under these conditions is to drift brightly colored San Juan worms (hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns (yellow and orange) below an indicator. Use a sow bug dropper on the upper river and a copper John on the lower river to increase your hookups. Dry Run Creek has fished well. The hot flies have been sowbugs and various colored San Juan worms (worm brown, red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise). There is precious little room to cast and the most effective technique has been to high stick a nymph under an indicator. Use heavy tippet (at least 4X). Most fish are lost at the net. Bring a big net (a boat net is perfect). Take your time and do not try to rush the fish. Carefully revive and quickly release all trout. The water level on the Spring River is high and stained. If you do fish there, be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been the Dam Three Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise and hot pink San Juan worms and Y2Ks. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 5/19/2011 During the past week, we have had warm temperatures and milder winds. The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam fell nine tenths of a foot to rest at thirty eight and three tenths feet above power pool of 654.00 feet. This is two and seven tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake fell seven tenths feet to rest at twelve and nine tenths feet above power pool or three and one tenth feet above the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake rose nine tenths of a foot to rest at eight and eight tenths feet above power pool or eight tenths of a foot below the top of flood pool. On the White, we had heavy generation with additional flows through the flood gates (to compensate for two generators being offline for repairs) with no wadable water. The level of outflow is near the equivalent of eight generators. Norfork Lake fell eight tenths of a foot to rest at twenty five and six tenths of a foot above power pool of 552.00 feet or two and four tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, the generators are down for repair and the flood gates are open to lower the lake level. The level of outflow is the equivalent of maximum generation or two full generators and there has been no wadable water. All of the lakes on the White River System have fallen with the exception of Beaver (which rose slightly) and are all near the top of flood pool. With severe flooding downstream clearing, we will have high levels of generation throughout the entire summer. With the flood gates open on the White, there are numerous warm water species that are coming through the flood gates. On higher water the best technique was to drift brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns (orange and peach). Fishing a dropper (copper John or beadhead hare’s ear) improved their effectiveness. Other anglers reported success with large articulated streamers (zoo cougars, sex dungeons and butt monkeys have been effective patterns) with heavy sink tips. Our major mayfly hatch of the year, the sulphurs, is just beginning. The most effective way to fish it is to concentrate on all phases of the hatch. Before the hatch begins, use mayfly nymphs under an indicator. The best patterns will be copper Johns, pheasant tails and hare’s ears. When the nymphs rise to the surface to emerge and the trout begin keying in on them switch over to emergers like partridge and yellow or partridge and orange soft hackles. When the trout begin concentrating on adult insects switch over to dry flies. The best fly is a sulphur parachute. The best place to fish was the Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam. The key to fishing the high flows has been to fish long leader/tippet combinations (twelve to fourteen feet), very heavy weight (two AAA split shot) and a large strike indicator set at the top of the leader. The go to flies have been brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns in pink or orange. Another hot spot has been Rim Shoals. Several anglers have reported success with Y2Ks and brightly colored San Juan worms. The flows are too heavy to take advantage of the water taxi operated by Rim Shoals Trout Dock. Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are much lower and clearer. The water temperature is right on and the small mouths are getting active. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The Norfork has had a constant but heavy flow. With the flood gates open, there have been reports of warm water species like stripers that have escaped into the river. They have been spotted in the area of the outflow from Dry Run Creek. The best technique under these conditions is to drift brightly colored San Juan worms (hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns (yellow and orange) below an indicator. Use a sow bug dropper on the upper river and a copper John on the lower river to increase your hookups. Dry Run Creek has fished well. The hot flies have been sowbugs and various colored San Juan worms (worm brown, red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise). The fish are huge. You will need to carry the biggest net that you can lay your hands on (a boat net is perfect) and use at least 4X tippet. While you are there take the time to visit the adjacent national Fish Hatchery. The facility is facing severe a severe budget crunch. Let your congressman know just how important this hatchery is to you and our economy. The water level on the Spring River is still a lower and clearing. If you do fish there, be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been the Lassiter Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise and hot pink San Juan worms and Y2Ks. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 5/14/2011 During the past week, we have had warm temperatures and mild winds. The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam rose three and five tenths feet to rest at thirty nine and two tenths of a foot above power pool of 654.00 feet. This is one and eight tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake fell two and seven tenths feet to rest at thirteen and six tenths feet above power pool or two and four tenths feet above the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake fell one foot to rest at seven and nine tenths feet above power pool or one and seven tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we had light generation earlier and heavier generation later in the week with no wadable water. Norfork Lake rose seven tenths of a foot to rest at twenty six and four tenths of a foot above power pool of 552.00 feet or one and six tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, the generators are down for repair and the flood gates are open to lower the lake level. The level of outflow is the equivalent of maximum generation or two full generators and there has been no wadable water. All of the lakes on the White River System have fallen with the exception of Bull Shoals and are all near the top of flood pool. With severe flooding downstream there will be moderate levels of generation below Bull Shoals Dam until the flooding clears. We will have high levels of generation throughout the entire summer. On the White, we had low levels of generation at the beginning of the week that fished well. The best technique was to drift nymphs under an indicator. The best flies were prince nymphs, copper Johns, Y2Ks and beadhead hare’s ears. On higher water the best technique was to drift brightly colored San Juan worms (red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns (orange and peach). Fishing a dropper (copper John or beadhead hare’s ear) improved their effectiveness. Other anglers reported success with large articulated streamers (zoo cougars, sex dungeons and butt monkeys have been effective patterns) with heavy sink tips. Our major mayfly hatch of the year, the sulphurs, is just beginning. The most effective way to fish it is to concentrate on all phases of the hatch. Before the hatch begins, use mayfly nymphs under an indicator. The best patterns will be copper Johns, pheasant tails and hare’s ears. When the nymphs rise to the surface to emerge and the trout begin keying in on them switch over to emergers like partridge and yellow or partridge and orange soft hackles. When the trout begin concentrating on adult insects switch over to dry flies. The best fly is a sulphur parachute. The best place to fish was the Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam. On low water, the hot flies have been various midge patterns. The hottest flies have been black, silver or purple zebra midges with silver beads and silver wire. On higher flows brightly colored San Juan worms and egg patterns have been effective. Another hot spot has been Rim Shoals. On low flows, several anglers have reported success with Y2Ks and brightly colored San Juan worms. If you want to wade in high water, Rim Shoals Trout Dock will ferry you to wadable water and pick you up for a modest fee. They can do this in flows up to 17,000 CFS (cubic feet per second). Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are still high and clearing. The water temperature is right on and the small mouths are getting active. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The Norfork has had a constant but heavy flow. With the flood gates open, there have been reports of warm water species like stripers that have escaped into the river. They have been spotted in the area of the outflow from Dry Run Creek. The best technique under these conditions is to drift brightly colored San Juan worms (hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns (yellow and orange) below an indicator. Use a sow bug dropper on the upper river and a copper John on the lower river to increase your hookups. Dry Run Creek has fished well. The weather is great, the water is perfect and the trout are willing. The hot fly has been sowbugs and various colored San Juan worms (worm brown, red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise). The fish are huge. You will need to carry the biggest net that you can lay your hands on (a boat net is perfect). Use at least 4X tippet and have your youngster take their time when landing the big fish. Rushing a big fish is a great way to lose them. The water level on the Spring River is still a bit high and clearing. If you do fish there, be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been the Lassiter Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise and hot pink San Juan worms and Y2Ks. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 5/05/2011 During the past week, we have had more rain with cool temperatures and mild winds. The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam rose twelve feet to rest at thirty five and seven tenths of a foot above power pool of 654.00 feet. This is five and three tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake fell three and five tenths feet to rest at sixteen and three tenths feet above power pool or three tenths of a foot above the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake fell one tenth of a foot to rest at eight and nine tenths feet above power pool or seven tenths of a foot below the top of flood pool. On the White, we had light generation with no wadable water. Norfork Lake rose one and six tenths feet to rest at twenty seven and one tenth feet above power pool of 552.00 feet or nine tenths of a foot below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, the generators are down for repair and the flood gates are open to lower the lake level. The level of outflow has been significantly increased in the past week to lower the lake level below the top of flood pool. All of the lakes on the White River System have risen significantly and are all near or above the top of flood pool. Beaver, Table Rock and Norfork are particularly high, are generating at high levels and have flood gates open to draw their levels down quickly. The water is being held by Bull Shoals Dam. With severe flooding downstream there will be low levels of generation below Bull Shoals Dam until the flooding clears. We will have much higher levels of generation on the White at that time. After the heavy rain we received this past week, the river was severely stained but has now cleared on the upper river (above Crooked Creek). The best place to fish was the Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam. The water is always clear there, when the rest of the river is unfishable. The hot flies have been various midge patterns. The hottest flies have been black, silver or purple zebra midges with silver beads and silver wire, brightly colored San Juan worms and egg patterns.. Another hot spot has been Rim Shoals. The flows have been perfect for fishing here and the water is clear. Several anglers have reported success with Y2Ks and brightly colored San Juan worms. Remember that Rim Shoals Trout Dock will ferry you to wadable water and pick you up for a modest fee. As the water clears further downstream, the fishing should be good. One of the best flies to use after heavy rain is the San Juan worm. During heavy rain many worms are flushed into the river and the trout are accustomed to feeding on them. The best colors are worm brown, red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise. Our big hatch of the year, the Rhyacophilia caddis is on the wane. This is a fairly large caddis fly that is bright green. Before the hatch, try bright green caddis larva patterns like the fluttering caddis (in size 16 or 14). When the caddis rises to the surface of the water to emerge, switch to a partridge and green or green butt soft hackle (in size sixteen or fourteen). When you see trout taking adults on the surface, you should switch to green elk hair caddis (also in size sixteen or fourteen). This is our absolute best and most prolific hatch of the year. It can be sparse at times. Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are high and stained. The recent rains have resulted in heavy flooding on both streams and the White River below Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River is stained. The water temperature is right on and the small mouths are getting active. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The Norfork has had a constant but extremely heavy flow. Be extremely careful when navigating the river. With the flood gates open, there have been reports of warm water species like stripers that have escaped into the river. They have been spotted in the area of the outflow from Dry Run Creek. The lower river is backed up from the confluence with the White River due to the flooding there. Fishing should be limited to the upper river. The best technique under these conditions is to drift brightly colored San Juan worms (hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns (yellow and orange) below an indicator. Dry Run Creek has fished well. The water is low and clear. Now is a great time to take your youngster there. The weather is great, the water is perfect and the trout are willing. The hot fly has been sowbugs and various colored San Juan worms (worm brown, red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise). While you are there take a few minutes to tour the adjacent National Fish Hatchery. It is currently suffering through a budgetary crisis. Let your congressman know how important it is to us and our economy. The water level on the Spring River is still high and stained. If you do fish there, be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been the Lassiter Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise and hot pink San Juan worms and Y2Ks. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 4/28/2011 During the past week, we have had six days of unrelenting storms that resulted in widespread flooding, generally cooler temperatures and extremely heavy winds (to include lake wind advisories almost every day). The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam rose twenty three and seven tenths of a foot to rest at twenty three and seven tenths of a foot above power pool of 654.00 feet. This is seventeen and three tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake rose twenty one and one tenth feet to rest at twenty and one tenth feet above power pool or four and one tenth feet above the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake rose twelve and five tenths feet to rest at nine feet above power pool or six tenths of a foot below the top of flood pool. On the White, we had light generation with some wadable water. Norfork Lake rose twenty four and seven tenths feet to rest at twenty five and five tenths feet above power pool of 552.00 feet or two and five tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, the generators are down for repair and the flood gates are open to lower the lake level. The outflow is the equivalent of two full generators. All of the lakes on the White River System have risen significantly and are all near or above the top of flood pool. Beaver and Table Rock are particularly high, are generating at high levels and have flood gates open to draw their levels down quickly. The water is being held by Bull Shoals Dam. With severe flooding downstream there will be low levels of generation below Bull Shoals Dam until the flooding clears. We will have much higher levels of generation on the White at that time. After the heavy rain we received this past week, the river was severely stained. The best place to fish was the Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam. The water is always clear there, when the rest of the river is unfishable. The hot flies have been various midge patterns. The hottest flies have been black or silver zebra midges and Dan’s turkey tail emerger As the water clears, the fishing should be good. One of the best flies to use after heavy rain is the San Juan worm. During heavy rain many worms are flushed into the river and the trout are accustomed to feeding on them. The best colors are worm brown, red, hot fluorescent pink and cerise. Our big hatch of the year, the Rhyacophilia caddis is still going on. This is a fairly large caddis fly that is bright green. Before the hatch, try bright green caddis larva patterns like the fluttering caddis (in size 16 or 14). When the caddis rises to the surface of the water to emerge, switch to a partridge and green or green butt soft hackle (in size sixteen or fourteen). When you see trout taking adults on the surface, you should switch to green elk hair caddis (also in size sixteen or fourteen). This is our absolute best and most prolific hatch of the year. It can can be sparse at times. Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are very high and heavily stained. The recent rains have resulted in heavy flooding on both streams and the White River below Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River is very muddy and unfishable. The water temperature is right on and the small mouths are getting active. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The Norfork has had a fairly constant but heavy flow. With the flood gates open there have been reports of warm water species like stripers that have escaped into the river. They have been spotted in the area of the outflow from Dry Run Creek. The lower river is backed up from the confluence with the White River due to the flooding there. Fishing should be limited to the upper river. The best technique under these conditions is to drift brightly colored San Juan worms (hot fluorescent pink and cerise) and egg patterns (yellow and orange) below an indicator. Dry Run Creek has been the bright spot. The water is clear and at a fishable level. This is the place to go now. The hot flies have been sowbugs and worm brown San Juan worms. Remember to use heavy tippet (at least 4X) and carry a big net. Do not forget the camera. This is where memories are created. The water level on the Spring River is very high and heavily stained. If you do fish there, be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been the Lassiter Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise and hot pink San Juan worms and Y2Ks. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 4/21/2011 During the past week, we have had a significant rain event, generally warmer then cooler temperatures and extremely heavy winds (to include lake wind advisories almost every day). The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam rose two and one tenth of a foot to rest at power pool of 654.00 feet. This is forty one feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake rose one and three tenths of a foot to rest at one foot below power pool or seventeen feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake rose one and five tenths of a foot to rest at three and five tenths feet below power pool or thirteen and one tenth feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we had light generation with significant periods of wadable water. Norfork Lake rose two and one tenth feet to rest at eight tenths feet above power pool of 552.00 feet or twenty seven and two tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, we have had a pattern of very limited generation and significant periods of wadable water. All of the lakes on the White River System have risen several feet and are all near or above power pool. After the heavy rain we received this past week, the river was severely stained. The best place to fish was the Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam. The water is always clear there, when the rest of the river is unfishable. Our big hatch of the year, the Rhyacophilia caddis is in full swing. This is a fairly large caddis fly that is bright green. Before the hatch, try bright green caddis larva patterns like the fluttering caddis (in size 16 or 14). When the caddis rises to the surface of the water to emerge, switch to a partridge and green or green butt soft hackle (in size sixteen or fourteen). When you see trout taking adults on the surface, you should switch to green elk hair caddis (also in size sixteen or fourteen). This is our absolute best and most prolific hatch of the year. I have received reports from several anglers expressing significant success from using caddis larva, emerger patterns and dry flies on the White River. The hatch can be sparse at times. The hot spot has been Wildcat Shoals. On lower flows, the key to success has been to fish dry flies or swing soft hackles and emergers. The go to flies have been elk hair caddis (size 14-16), partridge and green soft hackles and green butts. Other effective flies have been caddis larva, green copper johns and partridge and orange soft hackles. There has been many caddis hatching in this area on the lower flows. There are numerous brown trout in this section. On higher flow this is a great place to bang the bank with large streamers. Flies like circus peanuts or sex dungeons have been the ticket to success. Deliver them with 250 grain or heavier sink tip fly lines. You will need an eight weight rod to cast them. This is hard work and not an easy day but it can generate some big fish. Another hot spot has been Rim Shoals. The dry fly action has been heavy at times when the caddis are hatching and the wind lies down for a while. Elk hair caddis (in size 14 and 16) has been the top producer. There has also been some nice fish caught on partridge and green soft hackles and green butts. Before the hatch the hot flies have been green caddis pupa. Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are still high and a bit stained. The recent rains significantly raised the water level on both streams and the White River below Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River was very muddy and unfishable for several days. The water temperature is right on and the small mouths are getting active. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The Norfork has continued to fish well this week. We have had wadable water every day. There has been some decent midge action at the Ackerman access. Try Dan’s turkey tail emerger. Caddis nymph and emerger patterns are also taking a lot of fish. Try green butts or green caddis larva patterns. On high water, try brightly colored San Juan worms (cerise and hot pink) or egg patterns (orange and peach). Try using a dropper (a sowbug on the upper river and a caddis pupa on the lower river) to increase your chances for a hook up. Dry Run Creek has fished well. The hot flies have been sowbugs and worm brown San Juan worms. The mild weather has drawn several young anglers here in the past week. There are plenty of trout and lots of places to fish. The creek is located in a narrow valley and is a great place to escape the heavy winds we have experienced lately. While you are there, take a minute and tour the adjacent National Fish Hatchery. It is an important component of our local economy and it is in peril. Let your politicians know that we need it to stay open. The water level on the Spring River is high and stained. Be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been the Lassiter Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise and hot pink San Juan worms and Y2Ks. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

I fish soft hackles regularly. Yesterday my wife, Lori, and I fished Wildcat Shoals. She fished dries while I fished soft hackles. I landed thirty with a twenty one inch brown being the big fish. Lori landed ten. I might add that she generally out fishes me!

I fished Rim Shoals yesterday with two clients. i pumped two trout's stomaches and they were full of caddis adults. i have been doing well with green butt soft hackles.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 4/14/2011 During the past week, we have had a significant rain event, generally warmer temperatures and heavy winds (to include lake wind advisories). The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam dropped two tenths of a foot to rest at two and one tenth feet below power pool of 654.00 feet. This is forty three and one tenth of a foot below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake rose seven tenths of a foot to rest at two and three tenths feet below power pool or eighteen and three tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake rose one and one tenth of a foot to rest at five feet below power pool or fourteen and six tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we had light generation with some wadable water. Norfork Lake rose nine tenths of a foot to rest at one and three tenths feet below power pool of 552.00 feet or twenty nine and three tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, we have had a pattern of very limited generation and significant periods of wadable water. All of the lakes on the White River System are still lower than we have seen them for several years at this time of the year and we should continue to receive wadable water. Our big hatch of the year, the Rhyacophilia caddis has begun. This is a fairly large caddis fly that is bright green. Before the hatch try bright green caddis larva patterns like the fluttering caddis (in size 16 or 14). When the caddis rises to the surface of the water to emerge, switch to a partridge and green or green butt soft hackle (in size sixteen or fourteen). When you see trout taking adults on the surface, you should switch to green elk hair caddis (also in size sixteen or fourteen). This is our absolute best and most prolific hatch of the year. I have received reports from several anglers expressing significant success from using caddis larva, emerger patterns and dry flies on the White River. The hatch can be sparse at times. The hot spot has been Round House Shoals in Cotter. On lower flows, the key to success has been to fish dry flies or swing soft hackles and emergers. The go to flies have been elk hair caddis (size 14-16), partridge and green soft hackles and green butts. Other effective flies have been caddis larva and green copper johns. There has been many caddis hatching in this area on the lower flows. On the higher flows, brightly colored San Juan worms and egg patterns fished below an indicator with plenty of lead have been quite effective. Try a caddis larva dropper to increase your chances for success. Another hot spot has been the section from White Hole down to Wildcat Shoals. The dry fly action has been heavy at times when the caddis are hatching. Elk hair caddis in size 14 and 16 has been the top producer. There has also been some nice fish caught on partridge and green soft hackles and green butts. Before the hatch the hot flies have been green caddis pupa. On higher flow this is a great place to bang the bank with large streamers. Flies like circus peanuts or sex dungeons have been the ticket to success. Deliver them with 250 grain or heavier sink tip fly lines. You will need an eight weight rod to cast them. This is hard work and not an easy day but it can generate some big fish. Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are still high and a bit stained. The water temperature is right on and the small mouths are getting active. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The Norfork has continued to fish well this week. We have had wadable water every day. There has been some decent midge action at the Ackerman access. Try Dan’s turkey tail emerger. Caddis nymph and emerger patterns are also taking a lot of fish. Try green butts or green caddis larva patterns. On high water, try brightly colored San Juan worms (cerise and hot pink) or egg patterns (orange and peach). Try using a dropper (a sowbug on the upper river and a caddis pupa on the lower river) to increase your chances for a hook up. Dry Run Creek has fished well. The hot flies have been sowbugs and hot pink San Juan worms. Some of these fish are huge and the use of heavy tippet (4X or better) is recommended. I frequently see healthy adults fishing here. They take their children there and the kids lose interest. The adults see the big fish and cannot resist taking a few casts at them. Please remember that this is illegal and you could earn yourself a stiff fine. Dry Run Creek is reserved for children less than sixteen years of age and the handicapped. The water level on the Spring River is a bit high and stained. Be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been Bayou Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise and hot pink San Juan worms and Y2Ks. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 4/07/2011 During the past week, we have had a significant rain event, cooler then warmer temperatures and heavy winds (to include lake wind advisories). The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam dropped two tenths of a foot to rest at two and two tenths feet below power pool of 654.00 feet. This is forty three and two tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake rose three tenths of a foot to rest at three feet below power pool or nineteen feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake rose four tenths of a foot to rest at six and one tenth feet below power pool or fifteen and seven tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we had light generation with some significant periods of wadable water. Norfork Lake rose nine tenths of a foot to rest at two and two tenth feet below power pool of 552.00 feet or thirty and two tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, we have had a pattern of very limited generation and significant periods of wadable water. All of the lakes on the White River System are still lower than we have seen them for several years at this time of the year and we should receive even more wadable water. Our big hatch of the year, the Rhyacophilia caddis has begun. This is a fairly large caddis fly that is bright green. Before the hatch try bright green caddis larva patterns like the fluttering caddis (in size 16 or 14). When the caddis rises to the surface of the water to emerge, switch to a partridge and green or green butt soft hackle (in size sixteen or fourteen). When you see trout taking adults on the surface, you should switch to green elk hair caddis (also in size sixteen or fourteen). This is our absolute best and most prolific hatch of the year. I have received reports from several anglers expressing significant success from using caddis larva, emerger patterns and dry flies on the White River. The hatch can be sparse at times. The hot spot has been the section from Wildcat Shoals down to Cotter. On lower flows, the key to success has been to fish dry flies or swing soft hackles and emergers. The go to flies have been elk hair caddis (size 14-16), partridge and green soft hackles and green butts. Other effective flies have been caddis larva and green copper johns. There has been many caddis hatching in this area on the lower flows. On the higher flows, brightly colored San Juan worms and egg patterns fished below an indicator with plenty of lead have been quite effective. Try a caddis larva dropper to increase your chances for success. Another hot spot has been the Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam. On low flows the best flies have been small dark midge larva patterns (size twenty two or smaller in brown or black with dark beads) and Dan’s turkey tail emergers. On high flows the best flies have been brightly colored San Juan worms and egg patterns. Rim Shoals has fished well. There have been some decent caddis hatches on low water when the heavy winds would lie down for a while. Size sixteen elk hair caddis have been the hot flies. Other effective flies have been green butts, partridge and green soft hackles and caddis larva (tan and green). Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are still high and a bit stained. The water temperature is around fifty four degrees and the small mouths should be active soon. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The Norfork has continued to fish well this week. We have had wadable water every day. The hot spot has been Quarry Park just below Norfork dam. The hot flies have been sowbugs suspended below hot pink worms. There has been some decent midge action at the Ackerman access. Try Dan’s turkey tail emerger. Caddis nymph and emerger patterns are also taking a lot of fish. Try green butts or green caddis larva patterns. On high water, try brightly colored San Juan worms (cerise and hot pink) or egg patterns (orange and peach). Try using a dropper (a sowbug on the upper river and a caddis pupa on the lower river) to increase your chances for a hook up. Dry Run Creek has fished well. It has been a bit busy this week, with spring break, but there was still plenty of fishable water and some great catches. The hot flies have been sowbugs and hot pink San Juan worms. Some of these fish are huge and the use of heavy tippet (4X or better) is recommended. Always carry a camera and the biggest net that you can lay your hands on. Most big fish are lost at the net. While you are there take a few minutes to tour the adjacent National Fish Hatchery. Remember that the hatchery is facing severe budget cuts that could adversely affect our fishing. The water level on the Spring River is high and stained. Be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been Dam 3. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise and hot pink San Juan worms and Y2Ks. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 3/30/2011 During the past week, we have had several rain events, cooler temperatures and heavy winds (to include lake wind advisories). The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam rose two feet to rest at two feet below power pool of 654.00 feet. This is forty three feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake rose four tenths of a foot to rest at three and three tenths feet below power pool or nineteen and three tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake rose two tenths of a foot to rest at six and five tenths feet below power pool or sixteen and one tenth feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we had more generation with some periods of wadable water. Norfork Lake rose one and seven tenths feet to rest at three and one tenth feet below power pool of 552.00 feet or thirty one and one tenth feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, we have had a pattern of very limited generation and significant periods of wadable water. All of the lakes on the White River System are still lower than we have seen them for several years at this time of the year and we should receive wadable water. The Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam was closed from November 1, 2010 to January 31, 2011 to accommodate the brown trout spawn. The State Park from the bottom of the Catch and Release section down to the wing wall was seasonal Catch and Release for the same period. These sections are now open. There are spawning beds in various locations. Please try to avoid these areas. On high water, do not drag chains through them. On low water, carefully wade around them. Our big hatch of the year, the Rhyacophilia caddis has begun. This is a fairly large caddis fly that is bright green. Before the hatch try bright green caddis larva patterns like the fluttering caddis (in size 16 or 14). When the caddis rise to the surface of the water to emerge, switch to a partridge and green or green butt soft hackle (in size sixteen or fourteen). When you see trout taking adults on the surface, you should switch to green elk hair caddis (also in size sixteen or fourteen). This is our absolute best and most prolific hatch of the year. I have received reports from several anglers expressing significant success from using caddis larva, emerger patterns and dry flies on the White River. The hatch is sparse at times. The hot spot has been the section from Wildcat Shoals down to Cotter. On lower flows, the key to success has been to fish nymphs under an indicator or swing soft hackles and emergers. The go to flies have been caddis larva in green, sowbugs, and green copper Johns. Other effective flies have been green butts, partridge and green soft hackles and Y2Ks. There has been a few caddis hatching in this area on the lower flows. On the higher flows, brightly colored San Juan worms and egg patterns fished below an indicator with plenty of lead have been quite effective. Another hot spot has been the Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam. On low flows the best flies have been small dark midge larva patterns (size twenty two or smaller in brown or black with dark beads) and Dan’s turkey tail emergers. On high flows the best flies have been brightly colored San Juan worms and egg patterns. Rim Shoals has fished well. There have been some decent caddis hatches on low water when the heavy winds would lie down for a while. Size sixteen elk hair caddis have been the hot flies. Other effective flies have been green butts, partridge and green soft hackles and caddis larva (tan and green). Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are high and stained. The water temperature is around fifty four degrees and the small mouths should be active soon. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The Norfork has continued to fish well this week. With more generation on the White, there have been more anglers there. We have had wadable water every day. The hot spot has been Quarry Park just below Norfork dam. The hot flies have been sowbugs suspended below hot pink worms. Caddis nymph and emerger patterns are taking a lot of fish. Try green butts or green caddis larva patterns. On high water, try brightly colored San Juan worms (cerise and hot pink) or egg patterns (orange and peach). Dry Run Creek has fished well. It has been a bit busy this week, with spring break, but there was still plenty of fishable water and some great catches. The hot flies have been sowbugs and hot pink San Juan worms. Some of these fish are huge and the use of heavy tippet (4X or better) is recommended. Always carry a camera and the biggest net that you can lay your hands on. Most big fish are lost at the net. The water level on the Spring River is high and stained. Be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been Dam 3. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise San Juan worms, pheasant tail nymphs and Y2Ks. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 3/26/2011 During the past week, we have had warm temperatures and heavy winds (to include lake wind advisories). The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam fell three tenths of a foot to rest at four feet below power pool of 654.00 feet. This is forty five feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake rose six tenths of a foot to rest at three and seven tenths feet below power pool or nineteen and seven tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake rose four tenths of a foot to rest at six and seven tenths feet below power pool or sixteen and three tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we had little generation with significant periods of no generation. Norfork Lake rose eight tenths of a foot to rest at four and eight tenths feet below power pool of 552.00 feet or thirty two and eight tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, we have had a pattern of very limited generation and significant periods of wadable water. All of the lakes on the White River System are lower than we have seen them for several years at this time of the year and we should receive more wadable water. The increased periods of wadable water that we have had during the past week were a result of mild weather and reduced power demand. The Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam was closed from November 1, 2010 to January 31, 2011 to accommodate the brown trout spawn. The State Park from the bottom of the Catch and Release section down to the wing wall was seasonal Catch and Release for the same period. These sections are now open. There are spawning beds in various locations. Please try to avoid these areas. On high water, do not drag chains through them. On low water, carefully wade around them. Our big hatch of the year, the Rhyacophilia caddis has begun. This is a fairly large caddis fly that is bright green. Before the hatch try bright green caddis larva patterns like the fluttering caddis (in size 16 or 14). When the caddis rise to the surface of the water to emerge, switch to a partridge and green or green butt soft hackle (in size sixteen or fourteen). When you see trout taking adults on the surface, you should switch to green elk hair caddis (also in size sixteen or fourteen). This is our absolute best and most prolific hatch of the year. I have received reports from several anglers expressing significant success from using caddis larva, emerger patterns and dry flies on the White River. The hatch is just beginning and is sparse at times. The hot spot has been the section from Cotter down to Rim Shoals, particularly Roundhouse Shoals. On lower flows, the key to success has been to fish nymphs under an indicator or swing soft hackles and emergers. The go to flies have been caddis larva in green, sowbugs, and green copper Johns. Other effective flies have been green butts, partridge and green soft hackles and Y2Ks. There has been a few caddis hatching in this area on the lower flows. On the higher flows, brightly colored San Juan worms and egg patterns fished below an indicator with plenty of lead have been quite effective. Another hot spot has been the Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam. On low flows the best flies have been small dark midge larva patterns (size twenty two or smaller in brown or black with dark beads) and Dan’s turkey tail emergers. On high flows the best flies have been brightly colored San Juan worms and egg patterns. Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are higher and a bit stained. The water temperature is around fifty four degrees and the small mouths should be active soon . Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The Norfork has continued to fish well this week. There have been many anglers there . We have had wadable water every day. The hot spot has been Quarry Park just below Norfork dam. The hot flies have been sowbugs suspended below hot pink worms. Caddis nymph and emerger patterns are taking a lot of fish. Try green butts or green caddis larva patterns. On high water, try brightly colored San Juan worms (cerise and hot pink) or egg patterns (orange and peach). Dry Run Creek has fished well. It got a bit crowded during sowbug but was not as busy this week. The hot flies have been the sowbug and worm brown San Juan worms. Other hot flies have been size sixteen zebra midges in red with silver wire and silver bead and Y2Ks. If you are a handicapped adult that is authorized to fish on the creek, please remember that you must confine your fishing to the boardwalk. The water level on the Spring River is higher and a bit stained. Be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been Dam 3. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise San Juan worms, pheasant tail nymphs and Y2Ks. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 3/17/2011 During the past week, we have had a rain event, cooler temperatures and heavy winds (to include lake wind advisories). The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam rose nine tenths of a foot to rest at three and seven tenths feet below power pool of 654.00 feet. This is forty four and seven tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake rose one and two tenths of a foot to rest at four and three tenths feet below power pool or twenty and three tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake rose seven tenths of a foot to rest at seven and one tenth feet below power pool or sixteen and seven tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we had moderate generation with significant periods of no generation. Norfork Lake rose one and seven tenths of a foot to rest at five and six tenths feet below power pool of 552.00 feet or thirty three and six tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, we have had a pattern of very limited generation and significant periods of wadable water. All of the lakes on the White River System are lower than we have seen them for several years and we should receive more wadable water. The increased periods of wadable water that we have had during the past week were a result of mild weather and reduced power demand. The Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam was closed from November 1, 2010 to January 31, 2011 to accommodate the brown trout spawn. The State Park from the bottom of the Catch and Release section down to the wing wall was seasonal Catch and Release for the same period. These sections are now open. There are spawning beds in various locations. Please try to avoid these areas. On high water, do not drag chains through them. On low water, carefully wade around them. Our big hatch of the year, the Rhyacophilia caddis has begun. This is a fairly large caddis fly that is bright green. Before the hatch try bright green caddis larva patterns like the fluttering caddis (in size 16 or 14). When the caddis rise to the surface of the water to emerge, switch to a partridge and green or green butt soft hackle (in size sixteen or fourteen). When you see trout taking adults on the surface, you should switch to green elk hair caddis (also in size sixteen or fourteen). This is our absolute best and most prolific hatch of the year. I have received reports from several anglers expressing significant success from using caddis larva, emerger patterns and dry flies on the White River. The hot spot has been the section from Wildcat Shoals down to Cotter. On lower flows, the key to success has been to fish nymphs under an indicator or swing soft hackles and emergers. The go to flies have been caddis larva in green, sowbugs, and green copper Johns. Other effective flies have been green butts and partridge and green soft hackles. There has been a few caddis hatching in this area on the lower flows. On the higher flows, the most consistent technique to catch good fish has been to bang the bank and any heavy cover with large streamers. The hot flies have been zoo cougars, circus peanuts and sex dungeons cast on two hundred fifty grain lines or heavier. Be sure and pinch down the barbs on these big flies. To toss this rig all day is heavy work and you will need a stiff eight weight rod and heavy tippet, at least 3X. Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are higher and a bit stained. The water temperature is low and the small mouths are not active. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The Norfork has continued to fish well this week. There have been a few anglers except on the weekends. We have had wadable water every day. The hot spot has been Quarry Park just below Norfork dam. The hot flies have been sowbugs suspended below hot pink worms. Caddis nymph and emerger patterns are taking a lot of fish. Try green butts or green caddis larva patterns. On high water, try brightly colored San Juan worms (cerise and hot pink) or egg patterns (orange and peach). Dry Run Creek has fished well. Now is a great time to visit the creek and take advantage of this great weather. The hot flies have been the sowbug and worm brown San Juan worms. During the past week, I have heard of several instances of adults (non handicapped) fishing and the use of bait. Both situations are illegal. Report any unlawful activity immediately by calling the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission poaching hotline 1 800 482-9262. The water level on the Spring River is higher and a bit stained. Be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been Dam 3. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise San Juan worms, pheasant tail nymphs and Y2Ks. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 3/10/2011 During the past week, we have had a couple of rain events, mild temperatures and heavy winds (to include lake wind advisories). The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam rose one foot to rest at four and six tenths feet below power pool of 654.00 feet. This is forty five and six tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake rose one and two tenths of a foot to rest at five and five tenths feet below power pool or twenty one and five tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake rose eight tenths of a foot to rest at seven and eight tenths feet below power pool or seventeen and four tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we had moderate generation with significant periods of no generation. Norfork Lake rose one and four tenths of a foot to rest at seven and three tenths feet below power pool of 552.00 feet or thirty five and three tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, we have had a pattern of light generation and significant periods of wadable water. All of the lakes on the White River System are lower than we have seen them for several years and we should receive more wadable water. The increased periods of wadable water that we have had during the past week were a result of milder weather and reduced power demand. The Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam was closed from November 1, 2010 to January 31, 2011 to accommodate the brown trout spawn. The State Park from the bottom of the Catch and Release section down to the wing wall was seasonal Catch and Release for the same period. These sections are now open. There are spawning beds in various locations. Please try to avoid these areas. On high water, do not drag chains through them. On low water, carefully wade around them. The hot spot has been the section from White Hole down to Wildcat. On lower flows the key to success has been to fish nymphs under an indicator or swing soft hackles and emergers. The go to flies have been caddis larva in green, sowbugs, and green copper Johns. Other effective flies have been green butts and partridge and green soft hackles. On the higher flows, the most consistent technique to catch good fish has been to bang the bank and any heavy cover with large streamers. The hot flies have been zoo cougars, circus peanuts and sex dungeons cast on two hundred fifty grain lines or heavier. Be sure and pinch down the barbs on these big flies. If you duff a cast and have to remove one of them from yourself, it could be painful. To toss this rig all day is heavy work and you will need a stiff eight weight rod and heavy tippet, at least 3X. Our big hatch of the year, the Rhyancophylia caddis should begin any day now. This is a fairly large caddis fly that is bright green. Before the hatch try bright green caddis larva patterns like the fluttering caddis (in size 16 or 14). When the caddis rises to the surface to emerge, switch to a partridge and green or green butt soft hackle (in size sixteen or fourteen). When you see trout taking adults on the surface, switch once again to green elk hair caddis (once again in size sixteen or fourteen). This is our absolute best and most prolific hatch of the year. It usually coincides with the Sowbug Roundup, which begins next week. I have received reports from several anglers expressing significant success from using caddis larva and emerger patterns throughout the river. Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are low and a bit stained. The water temperature is low and the small mouths are not active. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The Norfork has continued to fish well this week. There have been a few anglers except on the weekends. We have had wadable water every day. The hot spot has been Quarry Park just below Norfork dam. The hot flies have been sowbugs suspended below hot pink worms. Caddis nymph and emerger patterns are taking a lot of fish. Try green butts or green caddis larva patterns. On high water, try brightly colored San Juan worms (cerise and hot pink) or egg patterns (orange and peach). Dry Run Creek has fished well. Now is a great time to visit the creek and take advantage of this great weather. The hot flies have been the sowbug and worm brown San Juan worms. While you are there take a few minutes to tour the adjacent National Fish Hatchery. Remember that there is a current funding crisis and the hatchery is very important to our fishery and economic health. The water level on the Spring River is low and a bit stained. Be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been Bayou Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise San Juan worms, pheasant tail nymphs and Y2Ks. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

I second the referral for Blue Ribbon Fly Shop and Dry Run Creek. I also recommend that you buy the Home Waters book. It has a lot of great information. As a combat veteran, let me thank you for your service and wish you luck on our rivers.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 3/05/2011 During the past week, we have had a couple of rain events, milder temperatures and heavy winds (to include lake wind advisories). The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam rose one and two tenths of a foot to rest at five and six tenths feet below power pool of 654.00 feet. This is forty six and six tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake rose one and five tenths of a foot to rest at six and seven tenths feet below power pool or twenty two and seven tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake rose one and one tenth of a foot to rest at eight and six tenths feet below power pool or eighteen and two tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we had moderate generation with significant periods of no generation. Norfork Lake rose one and seven tenths of a foot to rest at eight and seven tenths feet below power pool of 552.00 feet or thirty six and three tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, we have had a similar pattern of moderate generation and significant periods of wadable water. All of the lakes on the White River System are lower than we have seen them for several years and we should receive more wadable water. The increased periods of wadable water that we have had during the past week were a result of milder weather and reduced power demand. The Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam was closed from November 1, 2010 to January 31, 2011 to accommodate the brown trout spawn. The State Park from the bottom of the Catch and Release section down to the wing wall was seasonal Catch and Release for the same period. These sections are now open. There are spawning beds in various locations. Please try to avoid these areas. On high water, do not drag chains through them. On low water, carefully wade around them. The hot spot has been the section from Wildcat down to Cotter. On the higher flows, the most consistent technique to catch good fish has been to bang the bank and any heavy cover with large streamers. The hot flies have been zoo cougars, circus peanuts and sex dungeons cast on two hundred fifty grain lines or heavier. Be sure and pinch down the barbs on these big flies. If you duff a cast and have to remove one of them from yourself, it could be painful. To toss this rig all day is heavy work and you will need a stiff eight weight rod and heavy tippet, at least 3X. On lower flows try sow bugs and zebra midges (camel with copper beads and copper wire). As the temperatures warm, the conditions required for a shad kill, are just not there. The lake levels are much lower than the last few years at this time, which has affected generation levels. We have not experienced a shad kill but several guides have reported success with shad patterns on high levels of generation. Our big hatch of the year, the Rhyancophylia caddis should begin any day now. This is a fairly large caddis fly that is bright green. Before the hatch try bright green caddis larva patterns like the fluttering caddis (in size 16 or 14). When the caddis rises to the surface to emerge, switch to a partridge and green or green butt soft hackle (in size sixteen or fourteen). When you see trout taking adults on the surface, switch once again to green elk hair caddis (once again in size sixteen or fourteen). This is our absolute best and most prolific hatch of the year. It usually coincides with the Sowbug Roundup, which begins next week. Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are low and a bit stained. The water temperature is low and the small mouths are not active. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The Norfork has continued to fish well this week. There have been a few more anglers particularly on the weekends. We have had wadable water every day. The hot spot has been Quarry Park just below Norfork dam. The hot flies have been sowbugs suspended below hot pink worms. On high water, try brightly colored San Juan worms (cerise and hot pink) or egg patterns (orange and peach). Dry Run Creek has fished well. Now is a great time to visit the creek and take advantage of this great weather. The hot flies have been the sowbug and worm brown San Juan worms. It is imperative that all trout be handled with care. Keep them in the water until you are ready to take your photograph, minimize their time out of the water and carefully revive them. The water level on the Spring River is low and a bit stained. Be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been Bayou Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise San Juan worms, pheasant tail nymphs and Y2Ks. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Local fishing icon, Forrest Wood, will speak at the White River Trout Unlimited meeting at El Chico’s on Monday Night at 7:00 PM. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

There is a trout tournament on the upper White (State Park down to Rim). The sponsors have requested generation for the 26th. The Norfork should be down.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 2/24/2011 During the past week, we have had a couple of rain events, milder temperatures and heavy winds (to include lake wind advisories). The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam rose five tenths of a foot to rest at six and eight tenths feet below power pool of 654.00 feet. This is forty seven and eight tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake fell four tenths of a foot to rest at eight and two tenths feet below power pool or twenty four and two tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake rose three tenths of a foot to rest at nine and seven tenths feet below power pool or nineteen and three tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we had moderate generation with significant periods of no generation. Norfork Lake fell four tenths of a foot to rest at ten and four tenths feet below power pool of 552.00 feet or thirty eight and four tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, we have had a similar pattern of moderate generation and significant periods of wadable water. All of the lakes on the White River System are lower than we have seen them for several years and we should receive more wadable water. The increased periods of wadable water that we have had during the past week were a result of milder weather and reduced power demand. The Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam was closed from November 1, 2010 to January 31, 2011 to accommodate the brown trout spawn. The State Park from the bottom of the Catch and Release section down to the wing wall was seasonal Catch and Release for the same period. These sections are now open. These trout have not been fished over for three months; they have finished their spawn and are ready to feed. There are spawning beds in various locations. Please try to avoid these areas. On high water, do not drag chains through them. On low water, carefully wade around them. The hot spot has been the recently opened Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam. On lower flows, there are some great midge hatches on sunny afternoons. Before the hatches, try small zebra midges. The reported hot colors have been camel and pink. Once you observe trout hitting the top of the water, give Dan’s turkey tail emerger a try. Several anglers have reported success with small Adams parachutes. Sowbugs and mohair leeches have also accounted for some fine fish. On higher flows egg patterns and San Juan worms have been the hot flies. Several anglers have reported success on shad patterns. As the temperatures warm, the conditions required for a shad kill are slipping through our fingers. The lake levels are much lower than the last few years at this time, which could affect generation levels. We have not experienced a shad kill, as of yet, but several guides have reported success with shad patterns on high levels of generation. On the higher flows, the most consistent technique to catch the big browns has been to bang the bank and any heavy cover with large streamers. The hot flies have been zoo cougars, circus peanuts and sex dungeons cast on two hundred fifty grain lines or heavier. Be sure and pinch down the barbs on these big flies. If you duff a cast and have to remove one of them from yourself, it could be painful.To toss this rig all day is heavy work and you will need a stiff eight weight rod and heavy tippet, at least 3X. Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are very low and clear. The water temperature is low and the small mouths are not active. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The Norfork has continued to fish well this week. There have been a few more anglers particularly on the weekends. We have had wadable water every day. There have been some spectacular midge hatches. Try black zebra midges in size twenty or olive Norfork bead heads the same size. Dan’s turkey tail emerger has been the hot fly and several anglers have had substantial success with size twenty parachute Adams. Some anglers have reported success on caddis emergers like the green butt. On high water, try brightly colored San Juan worms (cerise and hot pink) or egg patterns (orange and peach). Dry Run Creek has had a few more anglers that stopped by to appreciate the warmer weather and spectacular fishing. Now is a great time to visit the creek and catch the fish of a life time. The hot flies have been the sowbug and worm brown San Juan worms. It is imperative that all trout be handled with care. Keep them in the water until you are ready to take your photograph, minimize their time out of the water and carefully revive them. The water level on the Spring River is very low and clear. Be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been Bayou Access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise San Juan worms, pheasant tail nymphs and Y2Ks. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 2/17/2011 During the past week, we have had no measurable precipitation, milder temperatures and heavy winds (to include lake wind advisories). The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam remained steady at seven and three tenths feet below power pool of 654.00 feet. This is forty eight and three tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Upstream, Table Rock Lake rose three tenths of a foot to rest at eight and six tenths feet below power pool or twenty four and six tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake rose four tenths of a foot to rest at ten feet below power pool or nineteen and six tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we had moderate generation with significant periods of no generation. Norfork Lake fell seven tenths of a foot to rest at ten and eight tenths feet below power pool of 552.00 feet or thirty eight and eight tenths feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, we have had a similar pattern of moderate generation and significant periods of wadable water. All of the lakes on the White River System are lower than we have seen them for several years and we should receive more wadable water. The increased periods of wadable water that we have had during the past week were a result of milder weather and reduced power demand. The Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam was closed from November 1, 2010 to January 31, 2011 to accommodate the brown trout spawn. The State Park from the bottom of the Catch and Release section down to the wing wall was seasonal Catch and Release for the same period. These sections are now open. These trout have not been fished over for three months; they have finished their spawn and are ready to feed. There are spawning beds in various locations. Please try to avoid these areas. On high water, do not drag chains through them. On low water, carefully wade around them. The hot spot has been the recently opened Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam. On lower flows, the blue wing olive hatch is on the wane but there are some great midge hatches on sunny afternoons. Before the hatches, try small zebra midges. The reported hot colors have been camel and pink. Once you observe trout hitting the top of the water, give Dan’s turkey tail emerger a try. Several anglers have reported success with small Adams parachutes. On higher flows egg patterns and San Juan worms have been the hot flies. Several anglers have reported success on shad patterns. As the temperatures warm, the conditions required for a shad kill are slipping through our fingers. The lake levels are much lower than the last few years at this time, which could affect generation levels. We have not experienced a shad kill, as of yet, but several guides have reported success with shad patterns on high levels of generation. On the higher flows, the most consistent technique to catch the big browns has been to bang the bank and any heavy cover with large streamers. The hot flies have been zoo cougars, circus peanuts and sex dungeons cast on two hundred fifty grain lines or heavier. Be sure and pinch down the barbs on these big flies. If you duff a cast and have to remove one of them from yourself, it could be painful.To toss this rig all day is heavy work and you will need a stiff eight weight rod and heavy tippet, at least 3X. Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are very low and clear. The water temperature is low and the small mouths are not active. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The Norfork has continued to fish well this week. There have been a few more anglers particularly on the weekends. We have had wadable water every day. There have been some spectacular midge hatches. Try black zebra midges in size twenty or olive Norfork bead heads the same size. Dan’s turkey tail emerger has been the hot fly and several anglers have had substantial success with size twenty parachute Adams. Some anglers have reported success on caddis emergers like the green butt. On high water, try brightly colored San Juan worms (cerise and hot pink) or egg patterns (orange and peach). Dry Run Creek has had a few more anglers that stopped by to appreciate the warmer weather and spectacular fishing. Now is a great time to visit the creek, get some fresh air and shake off the cabin fever. The hot flies have been the sowbug and worm brown San Juan worms. While you are there, take a tour of the adjacent National Fish Hatchery. It is fascinating. Please remove your waders before entering to prevent the spread of aquatic diseases. The water level on the Spring River is very low and clear. Be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been downstream from the Dam Three access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise San Juan worms and pheasant tail nymphs. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

JOHN BERRY FISHING REPORT 2/10/2011 During the past week, we have had a major snow event, extremely frigid temperatures and heavy winds. The lake level at Bull Shoals Dam fell six tenths of a foot to rest at seven and three tenths feet below power pool of 654.00 feet. This is forty eight and three tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Up stream, Table Rock Lake fell two tenths of a foot to rest at eight and nine tenths feet below power pool or twenty four and nine tenths feet below the top of flood pool. Beaver Lake fell four tenths of a foot to rest at ten and four tenths feet below power pool or twenty feet below the top of flood pool. On the White, we had moderate generation with a few significant periods of no generation. Norfork Lake rose two tenths of a foot to rest at ten and one tenth feet below power pool of 552.00 feet or thirty eight and one tenth feet below the top of flood pool. On the Norfork, we have had a similar pattern of moderate generation and a significant period of wadable water. All of the lakes on the White River System are lower than we have seen them for several years and we should receive more wadable water. The generation we had for the past few weeks was due to the increased power demands brought on by the frigid temperatures. The Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam was closed from November 1, 2010 to January 31, 2011 to accommodate the brown trout spawn. The State Park from the bottom of the Catch and Release section down to the wing wall was seasonal Catch and Release for the same period. These sections are now open. These trout have not been fished over for three months; they have finished their spawn and are ready to feed. There are spawning beds in various locations. Please try to avoid these areas. On high water, do not drag chains through them. On low water, carefully wade around them. The fishing has been good for those anglers willing to brave the elements. The hot spot has been the recently opened Catch and Release section below Bull Shoals Dam. We have been getting some decent blue wing olive hatches. The best imitation has been a parachute Adams. This is usually a pretty small insect but there have been reports of a wide range of sizes. Carry a variety of sizes from fourteen to twenty two and match the hatch. Pheasant tail nymphs will work well before the hatch. With the cold weather, the lake surface temperatures are at or near those required for a shad kill. The lake levels are much lower than the last few years at this time, which could affect generation levels. We have not experienced a shad kill, as of yet, but several guides have reported success with shad patterns on high levels of generation. Our best bet for a shad kill will be late February. On the higher flows, the most consistent technique to catch the big browns has been to bang the bank and any heavy cover with large streamers. The hot flies have been zoo cougars, circus peanuts and sex dungeons cast on two hundred fifty grain lines or heavier. Be sure and pinch down the barbs on these big flies. If you duff a cast and have to remove one of them from yourself, it could be painful.To toss this rig all day is heavy work and you will need a stiff eight weight rod and heavy tippet, at least 3X. Crooked Creek and the Buffalo River are low and clear. The water temperature is low and the small mouths are not active. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly. The Norfork has continued to fish well this week. There have been few anglers. We have had wadable water every day. There have been some spectacular midge hatches. Try black zebra midges in size twenty or olive Norfork bead heads the same size. Dan’s turkey tail emerger has been the hot fly and several anglers have had substantial success with size twenty parachute Adams. On high water, try brightly colored San Juan worms (cerise and hot pink) or egg patterns (orange and peach). Dry Run Creek has been abandoned. The brutal weather has kept everyone from fishing here. If you have a tough youngster with some proper cold weather gear, now is a great time to find some solitude and a perfect opportunity to land a huge trout. Try to catch a sunny day with little wind. That will make it much more comfortable. While you are there, take a tour of the adjacent National Fish Hatchery. It is fascinating. Please remove your waders before entering to prevent the spread of aquatic diseases. The water level on the Spring River is very low and clear. Be sure and wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot spot has been downstream from the dam Three access. The hot flies have been olive woolly buggers with a bit of flash, cerise San Juan worms and pheasant tail nymphs. Remember that the White and Norfork Rivers are infected with didymo, an invasive alga. Be sure and thoroughly clean and dry your waders (especially the felt soles on wading boots) before using them in any other water. Many manufacturers are now making rubber soled wading boots that are easier to clean and are not as likely to harbor didymo. Practice water safety and always check conditions before you leave home. John Berry is a fly fishing guide in Cotter, Arkansas and has fished our local streams for over twenty five years.

Goop takes twenty fours to cure. Go to a fly shop and get UV Wader Repair by Loon. It cures instantly when exposed to sunlight. I have used it several times and it works like a charm.