Wadefishing Norfork?

[txspecks04]

Anyone know what the conditions have been like out at Norfork lately? I am not from the area, but I will be in Mountain Home this weekend so I was hoping to try and wade fish a good portion of the tailwater for some trout.

Any tips or links to resources would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,

tx

[snagged in outlet 3]

This is From John Berry's report.

"The Norfork River has fished a bit better this week. We have been getting a substantial period of wadable water daily. Generation for the rest of the day was near maximum levels. On low water, small midge patterns have been the ticket. The upper river at Quarry Park has fished particularly well. Try black zebra midges or partridge and Dan’s turkey tail emerger. Grasshoppers have also been producing. On high water, the most effective tactic is to fish brightly colored San Juan worms or egg patterns under an indicator. This past week enforcement officers from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission have been observed at Quarry Park and at the Ackerman access. We appreciate their presence."

I personally think the Norfork is barely a shadow of what is was just 3 years ago. Run off from housing developement, poor O2 levels and the low overall water quality coming through the dam. Add to that, the fact that it gets so much pressure because the White generates around the clock and what you end up with, is a very poor tailwater compared to what it was. Just my oppinion. Good luck.

SIO3

[Danoinark]

I personally think the Norfork is barely a shadow of what is was just 3 years ago. Run off from housing developement, poor O2 levels and the low overall water quality coming through the dam. Add to that, the fact that it gets so much pressure because the White generates around the clock and what you end up with, is a very poor tailwater compared to what it was. Just my oppinion. Good luck.

SIO3

Absolutely what Snagged said..dittos

Dano

[txspecks04]

Thanks for the heads up guys. I have never actually been out there, but only heard legends of it from friends here in NW Arkansas. After your tips, I think I might try and head out to Rim Shoals instead....

thanks

tx

[snagged in outlet 3]

Don't get me wrong, The Norfork would probably rank in the top ten nation wide for trout per mile and average size, even at this point. But it is a far cry from what it was.

Do both. Hit Norfork in the morning, then go to Rim Shoals Resort and talk to Gary. He'll hook you up with everything you need to know on the White. Either river taxi or rent a boat. I'd rent, considering they will probably run water around the clock like they have been for two years. Good luck!

SIO3