Savoy, Arkansas -- While a lot of fishermen are focused on fishing in the north half of the state this week, the AGFC Fisheries Division points out that if you're looking for a fun float trip in far reaches of northwestern Arkansas, consider giving the Illinois River a try.

AGFC staff in that region are evaluating the sport fish population in the Illinois River, from the Arkansas Highway 16 bridge in Savoy to the Arkansas Highway 59 bridge near the Oklahoma border, and the results of a recent survey were good. The majority of fish collected were smallmouth bass (64 percent), but spotted bass (20 percent) and largemouth bass (14 percent) were also well represented in the sample.

Although most black bass caught were less than 9 inches, anglers have an excellent opportunity to catch larger fish. The largest smallmouth bass was 18 inches, the largest largemouth bass was 17.5 inches, and the largest spotted bass was just over 15 inches. Biologists noted that other species caught included bluegill, longear sunfish, warmouth, shadow bass, channel catfish and a bonus 21-inch walleye.

Some of the best places to catch fish were within swirling and slower-moving pockets of water immediately downstream of fast-moving shoals and riffles, near large boulders in deeper water, and around large instream wood that had flowing water around it. Many of the larger fish were caught near large instream wood. Bottom-type lures in dark-green or brown that imitate crayfish are excellent choices during the day, while crankbaits and swimbaits can be very effective after sunrise and before sunset.

The Illinois River is an excellent choice for floaters and anglers during these abnormally dry conditions when other rivers run low and slow. Treated effluent from water treatment plants across northwest Arkansas maintains reliable water levels in the Illinois River compared to other rain-dependent streams. Kayakers and waders can head out with confidence, as regulators heavily monitor and test the treated wastewater to ensure water quality.

A combination of consistent water levels, abundant large instream wood and adequate food resources contributes to excellent habitat conditions that support a high-quality fishery. The scenic river views aren't too bad either.