The river level has returned to a fairly consistent flow of less than one generator (2,000 cfs). Bull Shoals Lake is currently 2 feet below power pool at 657.73 msl. Try any rainbow bait, especially the Mepps spinner or the silver Blue Fox both with the rainbow blade — they’re attracting a lot of attention since the recent rain.

Turn to the old faithful baits: the red-gold Thomas Buoyant Spoon caused a splash this past week, and the ever-successful shrimp/PowerBait brought in rainbows left and right.  Keep your bait near the bottom and expect the bite nearer the bank. If you’re not having any luck, try something different right away; change up the color you’re using or even just reverse the order.

The catch has been especially good this past week for browns. Although most were not officially ‘trophies’, there were many that fell just an inch or two short of the 24-inch requirement to earn a catch-and-release pin. The bait of choice was, again, sculpins, but crawdads are crawling out of the mud and adding to the mix.

Low-water times have been great for fly-fishers with many wading opportunities opening up.  Can’t miss with a silver/red midge. You’ll see hatches most every day with these sunny afternoons.

Don’t forget: the river level can change fast, so keep an eye on the water level if wade fishing.