Fishing Reports 2007

Real cold start at 27 degrees, clear, and calm. Forecast to get to 56. I guess I’ll give the dock and a
couple of locations on the lake, one more try, before pulling out the boat.

Well, that was a Cold, right next to miserable, 40 minutes. Took 3 poles to the platform,whose deck
was covered with a heavy frost. First white jig, nothing, second white jig, a few bumps. I saw something
come up and bump it, then drop back down. With the rising steam and watery eyes, I couldn’t tell what
it was. So, into the minnow bucket. Caught the largest Sunfish of the trip. Another minnow, or two,
then back to the warm cabin.

Barb and I would like to thank Teresa and Jeff, owners of Red Arrow, for their hospitality and friendship.
It’s greatly appreciated!!

Due to the overwhelming demand, from all across the country, the fishing reports will resume in Feb. ’08. Surprisingly, no one has ever questioned whether these reports are fact or fiction?!? Well, maybe Red,
from Hackensack, MN./Cabin #4, but….we all know Red. Besides, everyone knows the honesty of fishermen.
Or, maybe everyone knows if these reports were fiction, there would be a whole lot more catching going
on.

Today will be devoted to cleaning, packing, loading, and getting ready for tomorrow’s departure. We’re
leaving Thursday morning, and will stay over in Iowa Thursday night, then continue to MN. on Friday.

These Fall trips don’t always result in lots of fish, but they always result in a super good time. The sights
and sounds of the Ozark’s are beautiful this time of year. The birds, deer, owls, eagles, geese, turkeys,
the resident groundhog, an occasional fish, mixed with the colorful trees, flowers, scenery….great!!

This year the weather provided a real variety, some hot days, some cold days, some wet days, and some
windy days. The fishing offered a variety too, with some good-catch days, and some not-so-good-catch
days, but that’s what fishing’s all about. And then there’s the golf. Well, one of us thought it was great,
super, fantastic!! She’s talked about it continuously since last Sunday, and the almost hole-in-one. If she
ever really gets a hole-in-one, I’m in big trouble. Probably donate my clubs to the first garage sale on the
block. And, if she doesn’t stop blabbing about that lucky shot, her clubs may get to the sale first.

Actually, the golf was very enjoyable. It’s a great setting…along the White River and the fly fishermen
after trout, the colorful trees covering the Ozark hills and bluffs…hard to beat. I think I was distracted
by the beautiful scenery, or I would’ve shot much better.

Another great year at Red Arrow...thanks Teresa and Jeff for everything, including boat sitting
duties ‘til Feb. We’re looking forward to our return.

Last night at 6 o’clock, the temp was 69, and we were grilling in short sleeve T’s. Hard to believe this
morning’s temp had dropped to 39, with a wind chill of 35. About 2 steps out the cabin door…and I was
a believer. Since this may be my last early morning fishing for a while, decided to go for it.

Took two poles to the dock/platform, both with small jigs. No minnows, didn’t want to start with wet,
cold hands. Tossed the white jig, with a dark strip on the tail, about 2 inches long. Let it swing down
towards the dock, and brought it up near a tree, right under the light.

As I lifted the jig along the tree, in the light, I was admiring the lifelike action, when this Gar shot out
from under the dock, nailed the jig, and took off. I thought the jig may pop out of it’s boney mouth.
Even though this wasn’t the larger Gar which I’ve seen hanging around the dock area, I didn’t want to
break the Microlite #1 pole, from Gander Mtn.

On the other side of the platform, there’s a large, long handled landing net. So, I decided to walk the Gar
around the dock to where I could reach the net. If it broke the line before then…that’s okay. It took a
while circling the platform, trying to keep the fish out of the trees, but finally reached the net. And, landed
the Gar, plus the pole. line, and little white jig…all made it back intact. But, so much for keeping the hands
dry and warm.

After spending too much time on the dock, left for stop #1….nothing, so went to #2, the trees, where the
Sunnies were waiting. Changed from the plain hook and minnow, to the “Gar jig”. As the sun came up, it
felt real good, however the winds also increased. It was hard to keep the small jig (1/16^th) deep enough,
so went back to the minnow & split shot. And, the Sunfish were waiting.

The boat ride back was very refreshing, with eyes watering & nose running ….arriving at the dock @ 8. If
the winds continue as forecast, this could be it for today’s fishing.

It’s warm this morning, 59 degrees, SSW wind at 6, high of 73 forecast. The wind will shift to the W
during the day, and pick up to 15-25 mph, then shift to WNW this evening bringing colder weather
tomorrow. A Front is coming….tomorrow’s low 34, high 55.

I plan to get today’s fishing in early, 5:30 start, before the winds increase too much. It’s really difficult
fishing over/around the brush piles without a trolling motor, and next to impossible when windy. I’m
hoping the battery holds out for an hour or two. Then, back to Wal-mart for a new battery for the
trolling motor.

What a surprise…very little wind at the dock, and just a light haze hanging over the lake.

At the first stop, had a nice hit before I even got organized….missed it. Went to the trees. No wind
there either, perfect for hanging in there, with minimal use of the trolling battery. Marked lots of fish.
Caught a small Crappie (9 inch), using plain hook and small minnow. Then the Sunnies took over. Caught
half dozen, and missed at least that many. Switched to a small white Crappie Killer, tipped with small
minnow, and after a while caught a 11” keeper finally.

Finally a branch caught the CK, so switched to the silver/pearl Finn S. I could feel some light “taps”,
assume the Sunnies were involved. Ran the bait a little deeper, and it now joins the other half of my
tackle box…in the trees.

About 8:30, out of minnows, 2 poles in need of re-rigging, a trolling motor that could barely move…time
to go in. A fun fish/catch morning, much more enjoyable than golf.

Speaking of golf, my wife left me a note, actually a drawing, showing the green, the pin, and her ball,
which appeared to be at least ten feet from the hole.

After returning to the dock, Jeff and Donnie (part-time guide) witnessed my release of the keeper
Crappie, which I would say conservatively, measured 15-16 inches.

Yesterday, Jeff and Donnie commented that the water in the dock area was quite a bit clearer, possibly
marking the final phase of the “lake turnover”. And, that fishing should pick up in a few days. Let’s see…
that would put the “bite” returning about the time we’re leaving (Thursday.) Actually, I think the fish will
be jumping in the boats about Wed. afternoon, since I’m pulling my boat Wed. morning. We’re heading
north on Thursday.

It’s noon and very warm, 79 at Mtn. Home, 81 degrees on the way to the dock with a new battery.
Unfortunately, the W winds have also increased, but had to try the new battery. Everything worked okay,
but way too windy and the gusts were trouble. Caught a nice Sunfish on the first speed drift over the trees.
By the time I released the fish, re-bait, I was ½ a block from where I caught it. Enough sailing, going in.
Probably it for the day.

Plan to hit the dock about 6 o’clock, or is it 7?, I know it’s 5 somewhere. It’s 42, clear and calm, with
humidity at 89%. I can already see from the cabin, there’s heavy fog/steam hanging over the lake valley.
I’ll probably limit this morning’s fishing to the dock. Maybe later I’ll try the boat for a while, depending
how long the battery holds up.

We’re planning to golf later this morning, at the Rivercliff Course. 73 is the high forecast for the day,
with winds 5-10 mph. Should be a great day for golf, with each day the trees getting more beautiful.

Not quite so calm on the dock. The only action in an hour and 15 minutes….a flock of geese went over,
a couple of owls hooting, and some deer hunters were apparently having good action, according to the
nearby gun shots.

To the golf course for a 8:45 start, looking for those birdies. On the very first hole, we not only got a
birdie, but almost a hole-in-one. Barb hit the green with her tee shot. She figures about 18 inches from
the hole. Being a fisherman with lots of experience in estimating measurements, I say closer to 65 inches
from the hole.

Okay, maybe she’s right, and that was a great shot. Of course, I’ve been hearing about it ever since. And,
it’s really not that big a deal, not like catching a big fish. Think I’ll watch some football, then go fishing.

The football was great (although I missed the game, while in the boat), Vikings beating the highly favored
San Diego Chargers 35-17. Go Vikes!! The fishing wasn’t so great, but it was warm, peaceful, nobody
blabbing about golf….. really enjoyable!!

Warmer start than yesterday, 47, calm and foggy. Gave the dock an hour. Spent most of that time playing
“try to catch me” with a small bass. Didn’t catch it. A boat launched about 7 o’clock, and as it passed
nearby could see the guy putting on a blaze orange vest. About 15 minutes later, heard two shots. Not
sure how he could see to shoot.

Yesterday I only saw 2 other boats all day, and neither was fishing…. One, a group on a pontoon, and the
other apparently testing his outboard motor.

Out from 8:30-10:45, beautiful day, but no catching. Appears the lake is in it’s “turn over mode”, and
fishing is definitely in it’s “turned off mode”. To add to the problem, my week old battery for the trolling
motor, isn’t holding a charge. So….back to Wal-Mart, but not on the weekend, will wait until Monday.

Great day for watching lot’s of NCAA football today. After football, a fish fry. Love those Crappies, and
looks like enough left over for tomorrow.

We have the season’s first Frost Advisory for the area! It’s clear, calm and 36 degrees.

And that was a Frosty start! Figured steam would be rising off the lake. The water temperature at the
surface yesterday, was 66.2 in one area, 65.7 in another. Tossed a couple of baits around the platform,
back to the cabin after 45 minutes. Cold, I’ll wait for the sun to warm things up. Forecast: high of 66,
with light, variable winds.

We had thought about a round of golf, however my wife woke up with a pain in the neck this morning
(no, not me). She had a stiff neck, not good for swinging the golf clubs. Re-scheduled the golf for Sunday,
with a high of 72 forecast.

Boating from 8:30-10…no fish, a couple of nibbles, probably Sunnies. Not warming up real fast, still some
clouds, and 46.

Out again from 1:30 – 3:30, no fish…becoming reminiscent of last Fall. But the trees are looking beautiful,
and came around the corner by the point, saw three deer swimming across the lake. They were about
half way across, when the buck, and 2 does turned around and went back towards the point.

At starting time, 6:45, 48 degrees, cloudy, NNE wind at 8 mph. The wind was at least 8, maybe more,
from the E. Supposed to pick up to 15, with a high of 62, so switching golf dates to tomorrow…. slight
winds and mid-sixties.

Took two fishing poles to the dock/platform, turned on the light, when a pair of ducks swooped in,
landing at the edge of the lights, scaring all 3. Mr. and Mrs. Duck were apparently having a bit of a “tiff”.
She was really chewing him out , and they no more than hit the water and they took off…heading in
opposite directions.

Fished until 8:30; 4+2 = 0 (poles, stops, fish). It started out windy, then very calm, making for beautiful
reflections where the water meets the shoreline. Then the wind came up again, getting stronger, so
went in.

After a trip of errands, bank and Wal-Mart, went out at 1 pm and spent an hour trying to find a spot that
was somewhat protected from the wind. Didn’t find any….tried to fish along the point, but after a couple
of speed drifts, and called it a day.

Little warmer start this morning…. clear, 48 degrees, with a 3 mph wind, high forecast of 74. To the
dock at 6:15, foggy, but not as bad as yesterday. It was chilly with a fairly strong N wind, coming right
in your face. The temp is the Mtn Home reading, and their wind gauge must be inside. 6:45; back to
the cabin to add a layer & wait for daylight. Returned to the dock at 7:30, knowing the fog was still
hanging around, actually, thicker. Staying in sight of the dock, interchanged trolling/ drifting back
and forth along the dock. Still windy. A boat launched at the public access, I could hear the guys
talking, but couldn’t see them, so the next trip past my boat stall, pulled in, & back to cabin.

Saw a deer standing in the middle of the road as I went up the hill, then 3-4 more standing in the ditch
and near by trees. Must be that time of year. Yesterday, one roamed around the cabin, about 10 in the
morning.

Went to the #1 stop, down the hill from the cabin, caught 13 ½” smallmouth. Using a white jig head,
with one of the larger minnow. A number of year’s ago, Bud E. and I make this our first stop each
morning, and each morning, for 4-5 days in a row, we started the day with a smallmouth. Believe those
were bigger, meeting the 15” minimum.

After a lunch break, it was totally calm, so went around the corner, past the docks of the other resorts.
At one time, caught quite a few Crappies, near an underwater tree. It’s best to go in there when there’s
no wind, or you can get hung-up, not only the poles, but the motors. Never did locate the tree, maybe
gone by now. For about 45 minutes, lots of geese passing overhead….only located 1 group of 3 strings.
Hard to see against the blue sky. The higher temps, has definitely increased the boat traffic. My
informal survey showed the “catch” has not increased. Moved across the lake by the steeper bank, then
to the “ledge”. Marked a lot of fish on a couple of passes, filling the screen. Not sure how I missed
catching, or snagging one.

Finished at the trees, and came in after a good hit, that took me into a tree, leaving fish and black jig & minnow. Arrived at cabin at 4:10, with no fish.

Looks like a repeat of yesterday, 39 and calm, but doesn’t appear to be foggy, looking out the cabin
window. Will check things out on the dock about 6:30. Plan a quick try on the dock, then head out in
the boat.

It was quite foggy at lake level, so stayed at the dock, tried the smoke colored jig, then the silver one,
and finally a minnow….no action. Between the clouds of fog, saw some shad, then the resident gar. The
fog became more dense with daylight, so decided to wait it out at the warm cabin. The fog had now
spread to the cabin area, and the temp dropped to 35 (today’s high forecast at 71).

Clear at the cabin, but some fog still hanging over the lake at 8:45. So…. the Crappies had their chance.
Besides, I’m now in the pursuit of birdies. We have a 11 o’clock tee time at the Rivercliff Course, so
have to get mentally prepared.

What a great day for golf…in the valley, with the dam behind us, the White River (including fly fishermen)
and bluffs on one side, the Ozark hills on the other. And, the leaves are changing…. probably a week, two,
or three from peak, an absolute beautiful setting. And, didn’t see a single birdie, only some buzzards along
the river and circling above. Great day! Had a great time!!

After getting back to the cabin, decided to see if any Crappies missed me….one did, 11’+, in about 15
minutes, nothing for the next 1 ½ hours at the trees.

A cool start at 6:30… 37 degrees, calm, but foggy….very foggy. High of 67 forecast for today. Took 3 poles
to the platform, the Finn S, a pearl Swimming minnow, and the plain hook, for minnows. With the fog and
wind, looking down at the water, next to the light hanging over the water, was like flying through the
clouds in a plane.

The jig combos produced nothing, so put on a minnow. Tossed it out, and let it swing in to the dock, next
to one of the hanging trees. I like this method, come in a little low, then bring the minnow up along side
the tree (Crappies go up to hit bait). First try, a Crappie…but, just under the minimum. Then nothing for a while, and I was getting quite cold. Then another bite….this Crappie gets the Smallest of the Trip Award
(5inches ??).

The fog was mostly burned off by 8:30….replayed the same 3 poles as earlier…nothing.

Went to stop #1. Watched a gang of noisey crows chase a hawk out of the neighborhood. After about
15 minutes, headed to the trees. On the way, saw a herd of deer, on the side of the bank, about 2 blocks
away. They weren’t overly concerned, but did head up the bank towards the tree line. Counted 7, and
sure several more had run into the woods.

There was no wind, the lake was like glass. I could hang over the trees, between the trees, around the
trees, perfect, just like I wanted…no excuses now. Actually, I ended up in the trees more than when it’s
windy. And, not a bite. It was so calm (maybe too calm?)… maybe I should try a second pole….Naaaa!
To the “ledge” instead. The only other boat on the entire lake, was already at the ledge…so came in
at 10:40.

Out at 1 pm, went past the ledge to try another area, returned to the ledge, and then went to the trees. Following the guidelines on color selection, as reported in the Fishing Manual: Chapter 13, I had 2 poles
with the light, white/silver jigs, and two with the darker lures, a smoke colored Split Tail on one, and a
charcoal Swimmin’ Minnow on the other.

Also brought out the plain hook/split shot combo. The slight breeze was good. The fishing was good,
the catching, was not so good, except for a branch or two. I tend to stay in one place too long, but it
takes that long to let each pole have it’s turn. Came in at 3:30, with zero keeper Crappies for the day.
Wait till tomorrow!

Jeff stopped by to say he had gotten some larger minnows. And, with the new bait, and nice warm evening,
he was going to sit on the bench at the dock, and fish!?. Funny….but I never see Jeff’s fishing report.

Out at 6:15; and as I went out the door…saw a deer standing in front of our car. Not sure who scared who,
the most. Tried the dock, the pearl Finn S, then the small pearl jig, a winter favorite, that has great tail
action. Not so great this morning….no taker’s.

Hit the first two spots, couldn’t get a Crappie to bite. Went to a plain hook and minnow, and couldn’t
get the Sunnies to stop biting. Came in at 8:30, going to sort out some larger minnows, see if that works
a little later.

Just found out Daylight Savings time ends next Sunday, so scratch my comment of a couple days ago. I
thought I had totally lost it; sure glad to find out about the change to the first Sunday in Nov. (and
before I changed all the clocks).

Back out at 1 pm, went directly to the trees. The wind was deceiving, a breeze at the cabin, but windy
and gusty at #1. Had a hard time holding the boat in the area, but during a speed drift picked up a 11 ½
Crappie.,, no shut out, Yes!! The larger minnows seemed to work, not a lot more fish, but no Sunnies.

Decided to see if there’s a more sheltered spot, went down along the point, but didn’t mark many fish,
and still windy. It’s amazing, the wind comes down Howard Creek, into the arms, like a funnel/tunnel.
Seldom find a protected area, no matter which direction the wind is actually coming from. Next stop,
#1 morning stop…marked quite a few fish, a little deeper…35 to 45 feet. Tried the whole tackle box…
nothing, but maybe a bass hit right at the boat, actually, underneath the boat, thanks to the wind.

About ready to go back to the trees, however a large bass boat (250 HP) came cruising in, at slightly less
than the speed of sound, and went directly to the trees. Didn’t see their net out. Back to the cabin at 3:45.

Slight wind and 42 degrees this morning, with a sunny forecast, and high of 66, great! Long range looks
like sun every day with highs ranging from mid-60’s to 70’s for the next 5-6 days. Maybe that “back side”
stuff has moved out of here. Heavy fog (94% humidity) hanging over the lake this morning, delaying my
start a bit.

To the dock to check out the fog, a little before 7. A boat was launching, then very slowly

Disappeared. I decided not to go out yet, instead try the dock. On the 2-3 toss, got a good hit, as the
pearl & silver Finn S swung into the tree. Missed it, but I left it hang there, did my shiver jig (developed
in the Feb. cold), and it hit again. This time I got the very nice Crappie, probably 13”, will check later.
Saw an eagle soaring in the sun, always a beautiful sight.

After ½ hour around the platform and boat stalls, decided to come back to the cabin and wait to see
when the fog lifts. Returned to boat just after 8, went to #1 spot…nothing on two different jig rigs,
went with a plain jig, white, with minnow. Caught 3-4 Sunnies, about ready to head out, then caught a
Crappie, However, no matter which way I measured it, it came up 1/8^th inch short….so,, back it went.
Stayed another 15 minutes, took off towards the dam. Didn’t go as far as Marker 2, not a whole lot of
fuel left.

Back out at 2, caught two nice Crappies, one with the Finn S, the other with the Split tail. Plain jig rigs,
didn’t add the minnow. Measured the 3 latest Crappies…..11 ½, 12 ¼, and 12 ¾….nice group. Cleaned fish,
back to the cabin by 4:45.

It rained some last night and during the night, cloudy, calm and 47 degrees this morning.

I’m going out a little later, about 6:30, to get set-up by daybreak. All these times will change next week,
with the end of Daylight Savings Time. It usually takes me a while to adjust to the new times, but not sure
the fish care much about it.

It was very calm, but a slight mist when I reached the dock, and still very dark/cloudy.

Went to #1 spot, which is #2 stop, and virtually no wind. Caught a few Sunnies. Thought about using a
second pole in the rod holder, but….remembering my past experience using two poles, decided against it.

These are all proven facts. You Do Not catch twice as many fish, using two poles. There’s a 99% chance,
that 50% of your poles at any given time, will encounter major trouble…a snag, wrap the line around the
motor, tangle the two lines together. And, if you do get a bite, it will be on the other pole. And, to
increase the “trouble factor” to 100% on all poles, reach in the storage compartment for the Lil’ Jon….
aka P-Can.

So, with my one line, I caught 2 Crappies, one just over 11”, the other just under. After a while, switched
to a small white Crappie Killer, tipped with a minnow, and immediately caught another Crappie, however,
just under 10 inch minimum. The winds picked up, lost the CK to an under water tree, and the rain became
more serious…so, came in at 9:30.

Hopefully the rain stops this afternoon, as forecast. Till then….more togetherness, and most likely, the daily
trip to Wal-Mart.

It rained on the way to Wal-Mart, but quit by the time we left. This “back side flow” weather pattern
certainly has the appropriate name…back side.

Went back to the water before 2, trying several spots different spots, including what I call the ledge.
There’s an area, maybe a block long, where the depth is 22-26’, and if you move a foot or two further
from the bank, the depth drops to 35+. Marked fish on both sides. The low NW wind, made it possible to
drift, while trolling back and forth across the ledge, for it’s entire length….perfect, except for one thing,
no fish.

The water surface temp is now 67, the lake is probably in it’s “turn over” stage. Some say you may as well
put the fish poles away, and get out the golf clubs. And, that’s exactly what we plan, as soon as the sun
comes out, and winds slow down.

Looks like the winds have gone down some, forecast at 10-20 today, but could be in for a rainy day. The
radar shows a large green mass circling in from the NE, so, plan to head out shortly before 6, hopefully
before the rains arrive.

As I went to the car, changed my mind about going out right now. The winds are very strong by the cabin,
meaning they’ll be even stronger down at the lake. Darkness with strong winds, are not a good mix. The
temp is 44.

I should mention that the weather info… temps, winds, etc. that I report, are based on the WC’s report for
downtown Mtn. Home (about 15 miles from here). Sometimes things can be quite different out here,
especially down near the water.

This could be one of those “Togetherness Day’s”. I know Barb really likes those days!! Maybe I should
wake her, to tell her. Hmmmm, maybe not.

About 7:15 the wind appeared to lessen a bit, and not too bad straight across from the cabin. So, to the
dock. It wasn’t very pleasant, but decided to give it a try. Within minutes, hooked into the trees and
lost the first rig….the re-rigged 3/8 oz split tail. Marked fish, but maybe not as many as yesterday.
Continued to supply the Sunnies with minnows, before finally catching a fairly nice one. On occasion
the sun would peek over the cloud bank in the east…felt good. I was running out of minnows, cold, the
wind was increasing, and a couple of poles needed new set-ups. Plus, I figured the ham, eggs, and
hashbrowns would be ready by now.

Saw a deer standing in the road right by the office, as I returned to the cabin at 8:20. And, the
semi-warm cup of coffee and 3 day old brownie, wasn’t all that bad. The clouds are rolling in, so not
sure about the rest of the day…60% chance of rain this afternoon and evening. No major rain by 4 pm,
…a few sprinkles, some light mist. Went to the dock, not to fish, but to get things ready for tomorrow
(60% chance of rain).

I did get out for a couple of hours yesterday. Grabbed the raingear mid-morning, during a a light mist.
We were on the back side of an upper level low. You all know what that means for fishing? Me neither,
but apparently not good for big fish. Caught a small bass, a few small sunnies, and a small, but very
colorful Pumpkinseed. The highlight was watching a couple of long strings of geese pass over, just under
the clouds. Amazing how far their “honk” carries. It was quite cold, then the NW wind picked up, so came
in and cleaned ½ dozen Crappies for fish fry before tonight’s (Wed.) World Series game. Barb was busy
reading a book, and I don’t think it related to cleaning fish.

Another cold start at 5:45, 42 degrees, with a LWA forecast for 9-6, so heading out before the winds come
up. The NWB does an excellent job forecasting these LWAs, and they are quite accurate as to timing. Lot’s
of steam rising from the lake. The water temp at the surface was 72.8 degrees near the boat dock when
we arrived. It was 68.3 on the lake this morning.Because of the low visibility, I started on the dock, then
went to the boat, trolled/drifted back and forth along the dock, waiting for daylight. The depth along the
dock is 30-35 at one end, 45-55 at the other. Marked fish, but didn’t even get a nibble.

Went to the trees….it was beautiful as the sun came up. Very calm, hard to believe the LWA. I could move
back and forth with no wind, hanging right where I wanted. Caught two 12 inch keeper’s, and 2 under size
9” in maybe ½ hour. This had the start of a very good day. However, the wind started to pick up, and then
I could hear and see the wind waving the tree tops on shore. I lost my lucky lure…a silver speckled Bobby
Garland Split Tail, with a 3/8 oz. jig head. I think the heavier weight helped get down near the sunken trees.
I know it also got down into the trees, but got it out when it was more calm. I decided to try a lighter rig,
but hooked up right away, so decided to head in about 9:15.

Maybe the “little woman” would want to hit the links for a round of golf. A little wind doesn’t affect my
game, actually, a lot of wind doesn’t bother it either. We passed on the golf, nice (57) and sunny, but just
way to windy, 17 mph, with gusts to 25!?! Hard to relate to the force of the Santa Ana winds and the major
fires they are experiencing in So. California. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Steve and Penny Held,
Barb’s brother and sister-in-law, who have been evacuated from their home in the San Diego/Del Mar
area. And, to all others who are experiencing such a tragic disaster.

Afternoon update: Super news!!! Barb received a call from her brother….and they have been allowed to
return to their home. And, there is no damage, but lot’s of ash & soot outside around the neighborhood.

It’s 5:30 and a cold (45), rainy morning. The radar looks pretty green, looks like on & off rain all day today.
May skip fishing, unless there’s a break later this afternoon. The dock isn’t producing anything. Guess I
might as well pay some bills.

To finish yesterday…installed a new battery for the trolling motor. Had to give it a test run, even thought
it was turning colder by the hour during the afternoon. Also, with a front coming through, thought it might trigger a “bite”. Back to the trees.

The wind came up, so it was great to have the fully loaded trolling motor. After no action for a while, I
just had to get right in the brush that was sticking out of the water, in about 15-18 feet of water.
Temptation got the best of me, and the brush got the best of my chartreuse Finn S, with a gold plated jig
head. Actually, I didn’t mind losing that rig. Must’ve put that combo together after a beverage, or two.
It might look pretty good on a Christmas tree, or maybe it does on the under water tree. As I moved out
of the branches, picked up a small bass, and that was it. Time to go, as the mist started, it was cold
(temp est. @ 55.375 per my rusty, trusty thermometer), and it was becoming quite miserable. Fished in
shorts a few days ago.

Left early for fishing this morning, 5:45, gave the dock 10 minutes, then went out in the boat. It was very
dark, the few stars I saw when leaving the cabin, were no longer visible. Started fishing at the same place as
previous days, straight down from the cabin….no action. Decided to go to the “forest”, even though still
quite dark. Marked lots of fish, mainly in the 30-34 foot range. Very little wind, so could hang right over the
structure, which was 15-20 feet down. Managed to get a “close up ” of the brush pile, losing a white
Crappie Killer. Decided to put one rod in the holder, with a bare hook and minnow, and jigging another
rod, with pearl Finn S tipped with minnow, knowing this could be double trouble. It was, lost the bare
hook rig. After several fair Sunnies, caught a nice 12” Crappie, while coming up along the brush. The
Sunnies and trees cleaned me out of minnows, so decided to go in at 8:30.

Rain forecasted for later today….may not get back out. Need gas, minnows, and the trolling battery isn’t
holding a charge (may be going to Wal-Mart).

Hit the dock at 6:15, slight wind and 60 degrees. Turned on the light on the fishing platform, while
getting the boat ready. Came back to the platform, where a major school of Shad had gathered. I ran
a small pearl jig in among the shad, dropping it down through the mass, hoping to pick up a largemouth,
or Kentucky. A Gar came cruising out from under the dock, then a second one. As they came up after the
shad, their long nose would actually come out of the water…4-5-6 inches. Quite a sight. Prehistoric looking!!
I left before one decided to snack on a small pearl jig.

Stopped at the usual place, trolling in and out over some brush. I was really waiting for it to get a little
lighter, then go across to the tree pile. There was very little wind, it was a pleasant morning…..heard
owls, maybe a cougar, the croaking of a heron, and a number of sounds.

Caught a 12” Crappie, one just under the 10 inch minimum, and several sunnies. I would have kept the
Sunnies, had Barb completed Fish Cleaning 101, last Feb. A LWA was issued for 9 am to 6 pm. I came in
about 9:30, and the wind was picking up. Watched football, and enjoyed the 80 degree temps the rest
of the day.

It was 49 degrees at 6 am as I left for fishing. The wind is expected to pick up…15-25mph, so went
directly the forest, directly across from the cabin, where the AR Fish and Game put in lots of cedar
trees last March. I had one of my better ½ hour’s of Crappie fishing, in a very long time (back to
fishing the Mississippi River days at Lansing).

Very little wind at this time, I could hang right over the brush, pretty much vertical jigging. I caught
10-12 Crappies in a very short period of time. I actually lost track of the exact number, Honest!! Each
time I caught one, then re-positioned the boat, I caught another. Fun, fun. While the quantity was good,
only one keeper, at 12 inches. All others were between 8-9 inches.

Came in at 9:45, then back out from 10:30-12:15…caught one keeper at 10 ½. Watched some college
football, and took in an Art Fair at the fairgrounds.

At 6:15, it was a windy start, more than the WC report of 8 mph, and a temp of 56. Tried the dock
for ½ hour….nothing. The LWA started at 9 am, but by 8:15, when I came in, it was already getting
quite windy. I did catch one Crappie just over the minimum, at 10 ½ inches, and one just under. The
wind did reach the 20-30mph forecast, the temp was great at 71, so we went to Springfield and the
Bass Pro Shop.

Took the boat out at 6:20am, cloudy, temp at 70 degrees, and muggy. Another LWA for noon today.
Caught a 11” Crappie, a small bass and several Sunnies. It became very windy, hard to stand on the
dock, when checking to make sure the boat was staying tied. The temp reached a high 81.

Woke up to rain showers, skipped the early morning fishing. Rain stopped, went out in the boat from
10:15-12:30. Caught a few Sunnies, fair size, but not the jumbo’s. Before I went out, I suggested to
my wife, that she check out the storage area below the cabin, and then bring up only those items that
we would need for our Fall stay. There was a Lake Wind Advisory (LWA) issued for the afternoon, and
the winds arrived shortly after noon. It stayed cloudy all day, with a high temp of 80. A good day for me
to check out the storage area, and haul up the stuff we may need.

Just had to dig out a couple of fishing poles and try the dock…see if a Crappie or two might be hanging
around. Fished an hour, 6-7, caught 1 Sunnie, also called Bluegill, Bream, etc.

Spent the rest of the day unloading/unpacking, getting groceries, supplies, hooking up the pc, and
launching the boat.

We left Des Moines area at 8:15, arrived at Red Arrow 4:30. Great to see Teresa and Jeff. We did unload
the car, and a partial unpacking, before calling it a day. Great to be here, looking forward to fishing, golf,
and other fun things.

The Fall fishing hasn’t always been that good….probably 2 good years out of 8-10. It seems that when the weather’s good, the fishing isn’t, and when the weather’s not good, the fishing is. That’s my scientific observation, so, we’ll see what this Fall brings.

3/29th Report-Final of the season.

Made a quick trip to the dock....tossed a couple of jigs, had a small crappie on, looked like a larger fish
followed it up, then the small one got off.

My locker on the dock is fully loaded, so started to organize that a bit, getting ready to pull out the boat
this morning.

This will be a day of major packing and loading....car, boat, and downstairs storage area. If we keep much
more "stuff" here, sometime we may not have to bring everything from MN., including the kitchen sink. Our storage items now include baskets, candles, and other treasures my wife found at Wal-Mart, Dollar General,
and all gift shops in Arkansas, Florida, and all stops in between.

It was another great year, enjoying the sights and sounds of the area, the unusually warm weather, the
early flowers and spring colors. Although my fish numbers are down from some year's, caught a quality
walleye and smallmouth, some nice crappies, several 14 1/2 inch were the largest (Red of cabin #4, caught
a 15 1/2 inch crappie yesterday). But as we all know, it's all about fishing, not catching.

The friendship of the other Red Arrow guests is always a highlight, look forward to seeing them each year.
And, a Big thanks to you and Teresa for your friendship and hospitality. Also, thanks to Donnie for rewiring
my boat, and upgrading the trailer.

I'll be leaving in the morning, the 30th, and am anxiously looking forward to seeing my wife. Barb had a
great time too, and enjoyed her stay very much. We'll be back in the Fall, probably Oct. 15th, but will
firm the exact dates later. Thanks again.

March 28th

It had just quit raining as I went down to the dock, a warm muggy 60 degrees. No crappie action at dock. Maybe the 5,000 released trout in the area, plus the carp, and now some white bass, is too much for the
"spooky" crappies. Left with boat after 15-20 minutes.

Tried the spot along the point, then to the tree mass. Didn't get a fish in either location. While fishing
in the trees, between 15-20 feet of water, noticed a fish come up, with what looked like a white spot
on it's head. Later when it was light, saw this crappie come up out of the trees, it had a white jig head
in it's mouth. That jig didn't look familiar, maybe it's Richard's, but there's one hanging on a branch, that
may have been in my tackle box a one time.

A dozen casts from the dock with the centipede didn't produce anything, so returned to the cabin before
8, just in time to miss the rain. A good day for washing clothes and towels (while Barb's in Des Moines on
R & R), pay bills, run errands, etc. The amount of fishing today will depend on the amount of rain.

It rained again before noon, then became very warm and muggy. Tried a centipede off the dock, then a
slurpie worm, and jigged for crappies a few minutes....nothing. The white bass are in the area....must be spawning time, or pre-spawn, they are racing through the boat stalls, sometimes 1 fish, but quite often 4
or 5 in a group. They are extremely fast, darting in and out, and could care less about picking up a meal
on the way.

Took a boat ride to the trees.....pretty windy, marked fish, saw trees, one close up, lost a hook and split
shot. Thought I could dropped a minnow down near the trees, but too windy, and caught a tree. If one
would have hit it, I probably would've been able to get it without snagging up.

So, came in and started the packing process. I'll be leaving Friday morning, staying over a night or two in
Des Moines, pick up Barb, then head to MN.

March 27th

Had one very light hit, maybe a branch or carp passing through, so missed my one fish limit. Tried the
Rapala off the dock. Nothing along the shoreline, tried under the light, where a few shad had gathered.
A nice bass came out from under the dock, checked out the red hook/red bill lure, and decided against it.
After a couple more casts....took off in the boat at 6:15.

Made one pass before heading to the tree pile. Very little wind, perfect for maneuvering between the snags,
but still managed to lose two jigs. The third pole was rigged with a 3 1/2 inch green (light bottom, darker top) Finn S. In a matter of 5 minutes, caught two keeper crappies. Thought I had something going, but that was it. Came in, back to the cabin a little after 8.

Before feeding the trout about noon, cast the Texas Rig 10-12 times along the ledge. No takers...it's
definitely for a Texas size bass. Changing back to a Slurpie on one pole, and the pumpkin color centipede
on the other. This may be the last feeding of the trout. Arkansas Game and Fish are coming out this
afternoon, to determine when they will be released.

The trout were released by 3, when I went down to give the worm and centipede some practice. There
are trout all over and a number of boats in the area. I left after about 20 minutes...get ready for the
Red Arrow cook-out.

March 26th

To the dock at the usual time...63 degrees, light wind. Caught one keeper quickly, then felt a bump, and
that was it.

First stop with boat, just down the hill from the cabin....nothing, so moved to the forest before day break.
Took quite awhile but finally caught one...too small at 9 1/2". It came up and made a pass at the jig, right
at the top of the water. To dark to see what it was, figured a small bass, so let the jig free fall 5-6 feet,
and it made contact this time. Nothing from thereon. Lot's of early boat traffic this morning.

Returned to the dock about 9 to feed the trout, and try the centipede (different pole) off the dock...
nothing, switched to a large roadrunner, more nothing. Re-rigged a couple of poles, one with a centipede
looking worm and spinner, the other with a Texas Rig worm. Will try these later today.

During mid-day, spent an hour and forty-five minutes on the lake....no fish, quite windy and difficult to
hold over brush piles. The barometer has been falling, not sure of the impact. Another day of 30% chance
of rain, with no rain. Increases to 40% late afternoon and evening.

Will cast along the ledge later, if winds continue.

The winds did continue. No rain...had a small bass on , with the centipede, but it got off as Chuck
grabbed the net Beautiful day....but should have quite fishing after the first 15 minutes.

March 25th

It was 61 degrees when leaving for the dock at 5:30, with wind more than the 5 mph as reported for
Mtn. Home. Second or third try, caught a crappie....too small at 9 3/4 inches. Tried a bit longer...nothing,
so packed up the boat.

The wind died down, so after several passes in one area, went to the major brush piles/trees. Could
maneuver around and between the trees pretty good, no snags, in spite of the darkness. Started with a
3 inch Finn S, pearl with silver flecks. Felt a fish, or branch, then again, then nothing, then another hit,
finally a very large crappie. Probably the largest of the trip. Unfortunately, just as I got the net in hand,
or was reaching for it, the fish got off. Probably didn't set the hook properly. Ended with that sick feeling
we've all experienced. Just wanted to know ....how big?

Same jig, a pass or two later, caught a nice keeper crappie. Couldn't get another bite as the sun came up.
Lot's of bass jumping right next to shore, 3 to 4 feet out, about daybreak. The warm nights, and yesterday's
high of 82 degrees has helped increase the water temp, surface temp has increased to 57.5 degrees.

Quite windy all day, so decided not to go boating, but between half time, and commercials of the NCAA
BB game, returned to the dock. Decided on the centipede, off the dock's platform, along the ledge.
Ken (cabin #2) was there, and so was Chuck (cabin #8).

Thankfully there were witnesses to this story!! After only one or two casts, let the centipede hit the
bottom. slowly lift, drop, lift, drop, then repeat. I learned this from Donnie....guide. I got a hit. I knew
it was a fish, but it got tangled in some brush...so didn't know how big, At first...thinking real big. There
was a major strain on the line, and pole. About the time Ken was going for the net, all H--- broke loose.

At the same time, not only the super large fish got off, but the Mitchell pole broke....in half. Hmmmm!!
How big??

Ken, who also saw the fish, estimates it was at least a 9 lb. bass. Chuck didn't actually see it, but by the
splash, etc., he went on the low side, guessing 8 lbs 15 oz. Me... being a true fisherman, and not one to
exaggerate, I would say it was a Kentucky, closer to 2 lbs. True story!!

March 24th

Richard and I hit the dock before 6, caught a keeper crappie in the first couple of minutes...then nothing.

Left in the boat before sunup, returning to yesterday's locations. Marked fish, but caught none. Maybe we
needed Susan.

She and Richard are returning home to Indianola, IA. today, so we didn't fish too long. Wife Barb is going
with them, not to get away from me, I'm sure, but to spend some time with her family and friends in the
Des Moines area. I'll be leaving AR. next Friday, stopping over in Des Moines for a couple of days before
Barb and I head back to MN.

With the wife gone, it was unusually quiet in the cabin (just kidding Barb), so went back out fishing....
caught 2 nice crappies, before the winds came up, making it difficult to hang over the forest.

Later afternoon, tried the same areas.....nothing... it was way too windy. Then came in, had a diet coke
before heading to the library. Was home in time to watch some of the NCAA BB games.

P.S. I miss my wife! I had to clean the fish, clean out the boat, make dinner (delicious hot dogs), do
dishes, pick up stuff, and on, and ....

March 23rd

To the dock at 5:45, warm at 66 degrees. Caught one crappie right off the bat, then nothing more from
the dock. Richard and I left the dock to hit the brush piles, this time going shallow side of brush ....
20-26 feet. We ended with 3 nice crappies, +-12 inches, plus 4-5 bass. the bass were small, the biggest
a Kentucky at 14 inches.

If the weather holds consistent for a few more days, with no major fluctuations, fishing may continue
to improve.

Susan, Richard and I went back out in the boat at 4, to the same brush piles. Susan caught a 12 1/2 inch
crappie, and one that'll be a keeper next year. Richard was kept quite busy, since Susan doesn't put on
her bait, or take off her fish, or net fish for others, then mix in a few tangles with the trees, and he
came in quite worn out. We did bring in 4 nice crappies, making a total of 8 for the day.

March 22nd

Sixty-five degrees at 5:50 when Richard and I hit the dock. Tried a variety of baits, after an hour,
1 crappie hit the small white jig, but didn't have the net with me and lost it trying to lift it to the dock.

Everyone's wondering where the fish are, especially since the weather is warmer, and stabilized over
the past few days. Will try the boat and brush piles/points next.

Tried some mid-day trolling...we started with Rapala's, switched to larger Storm Shad on white jig head.
First cast picked up a nice fish.... 19 inch, 3 1/2 lb. smallmouth.

Next stop, the golf course. Barb and Susan took lessons from the resident pro, while Richard and I golfed
the 2nd nine. The second nine is very scenic, going up and down the Ozark hills. We shot quite well
considering the narrow, challenging course. And...Susan and my wife are ready to join the touring pro circuit.

March 21st

Slept in following Hawaii Night (which was great!!). Besides, we decided we would teach those fish a
lesson for ignoring us the past few days. Only spent 15 minutes being ignored this morning, prior to
feeding the trout.

And, going golfing today.....more frustration!?!

Golfed great!! Well..... didn't get hurt. Weather was good, actually quite warm. It was the busiest day
of the year at the course.

Will fish tomorrow, but may golf in the afternoon.

March 20th

To the dock at 6, with a temp of 59, muggy, and rain forecast. It did rain on and off, ranging from
sprinkles to fairly heavy down pours. We saw a few crappies and a nice size bass, but coax anything
into biting. Tried various baits.....nothing.

Took to the boat at 11 am, got 1 crappie at the first stop, then nothing the rest of the time. Even
tried some trolling, still nothing, so showed Richard some of the other areas....by marker 2. Returned
to cabin at 2:30 to get ready for Hawaii night.

March 19th

Warmer this morning....46 degrees at 5:50 am, and 56 degrees when we returned, about 7:30. Only
one fish....Tom picked up a 10" crappie. Teri and Tom are leaving for Tunica this morning, then on to
Biloxi on Tuesday.

Richard and I went out in the boat around 10:45, came in at 1:00, he caught a 9 1/2 inch crappie....that
was it for the day.

March 18th

Richard Dunn, Barb's son-in-law, Tom and I went to the dock at 6 this morning, 34 degree start.

We started with 3 crappie, then Tom hooked into something bigger. With a great/lucky net job
(hook came out while the fish was in the net). It measured in at 22 1/4 inches....a Walleye!

Took the boat to several spots, where Richard caught a 12 1/4 inch crappie. Later, after a 10 minute
battle, Richard made the biggest catch of the day, an estimated 15 lbs....Carp. He refused to have his
picture taken with the fish.

About 2 in the afternoon, Nick, Lennie's grandson, from cabin #1 and Illinois, caught a 6 1/2 lb Largemouth.
Very nice!!!!

March 17th

Tom and I were at the dock at 6 am....a cool 34 degrees, bit of a wind. We caught 4 crappies, all keepers,
but not braggers. One caught on a hook and minnow combo, 3 caught on small single tail jig, no minnow. Returned to cabin at 7:50.

We took the boat out, for 2 1/2 hours....a little windy, and not exactly balmy.... Tom caught a 15" largemouth,
I caught a 10 inch bass, plus back to back sunken trees.

However, the bad luck award of the week goes to Don...cabin #7 & WI. After catching and measuring a nice
12 inch Crappie, he was trying to get his jig back from the fish. He took it to the better lighting at the fish cleaning station. He got the jig out, but his line was wrapped around the gill plate. No problem, except the crappie took a giant flip off the table, back in to the lake....along with the jig.

March 16th

Fished from 5:50 to 8, this morning.....caught one right away using the split-tail, tipped with minnow.
Looks like another <11". After nothing, switched to plain hook and minnow. Caught one close to the top,
saw a shadow coming near the bait, but thought it had passed on my offering. Actually it had picked up the
bait, so needless to say, it swallowed hook/line/and sinker.

Tom Meister and I tried the dock for about 1/2 an hour......very windy...no fish.

March 15th

Went to the dock a little later....about 5:50, warm at 60 degrees. Started with a variety of jigs.....nothing.
Since the crappies seem to be quite fussy the past several days, went to a plain hook and minnow. Finally got one. After a time, as I was checking to see if the minnow was still alive, a crappie hit right at the top water level. So tried that again, and picked up a third fish. They were all +/- 11 inches.

I saw several more crappies, they were all smaller, and were not interested in my minnow. Tried another
tree, saw two very nice ones, but they weren't interested either

Back to the cabin at 7:45...will be getting ready for daughter Teri and Tom Meister's arrival tomorrow.
Saturday, Barb's daughter Susan, and son-in-law Richard will arrive....hopefully they'll pick up one of those
nice ones, 14-15 inches.

To the dock to feed the trout (and Carp, the seagulls must've found a new meal site). Before serving lunch,
went to each tree with hook and minnow. Saw a nice one hanging out, so eased my minnow down towards
it, I decide to wait this one out. My minnow was about 10-12 inches from the crappie. I didn't move, or
breathe for about 10 minutes, okay a long minute. The crappie finally slowly swan up behind the minnow,
opened it's mouth, and slowly moved towards deeper water. I let the line tighten, and set the hook......
have one nice 12-13 inch crappie in the fish basket. Yes!!!! I outsmarted, or out waited one finally.

Spent about an hour casting off the platform for Bass ....tried various baits including Slurpie centipede, a crawdad looking bait, 6" worm......no takers. Lost the almost weedless Slurpie, so meal #3 for trout, cleaned
the crappies (1 a 10 1/12, 2 @ 11, 1 at 12, and 1 at 12 1/2"), and went to the cabin.

March 14th

A bit of trivia.......this is "Pi Day"; 3.14

Went to the dock at 5:15, went through the regular routine....first for crappies, then cast along the ledges....nothing. Returned to the cabin at 6:50. My back has been a little stiff/sore the past day, or
so. So, decided to give it a rest. I do know it's not from lifting too many fish.

Plus, this was a designated "work" day...with emails, reports to and from, a conference call, etc., so
I'm taking a break from the fish......that'll teach them. Just wait until tomorrow.

March 13th

Left for the dock at 5:45, caught two crappies fairly soon after arriving.... 1 about 12", the second too
small. Tried a number of bait combos, then used the roadrunner and Rapala along the ledges.....nothing.

Went out in the boat about 7 o'clock. There was a little top water action in various areas, nothing major.
Looked like some shad showing on the new fish finder, or schools of something. Still becoming familiar
with how to read the screen. Hit a few brush piles, but couldn't get a bite.

Guess the white bass are hitting at the far end of the arms. The surface temp of the water I was fishing,
was just over 50 degrees. Probably warmer in the shallow end of the arms. The air temp was 60 degrees
when I left for the dock this morning.

Will try later this afternoon, at least take a boat ride around the brush piles. I'll add any fish action, to
tomorrow's report.

March 12th

To the dock at 5:30 CDT. Again, took a while to catch a fish....nice crappie on a plain jig with minnow.
At daybreak tried the large roadrunner along the ledges....nothing. Tried the Rapala from the dealers sale,
the one with red hooks and red "bill".....nothing.

Then back to crappies. About ready to leave when 2 crappies came after the split tail. They didn't like
what they saw. Tried a variety of poles/baits, but couldn't convince them to bite, so left for the cabin
at 7:45.

Took the boat out for an hour, or two......nothing.

March 11th

Left for the dock at 4:30 am (I have no idea which time zone we're in, standard/daylight savings time ??).

It took a while, but finally caught 2 nice crappies....1 on a jig, 1 with slip bobber and minnow. Missed 1,
as it came up, grabbed the minnow, in plain sight. My success ratio on those that I see bite....maybe 25%;
I set the hook by sight, not feel.

At daylight, tried a large, white roadrunner from the dock's platform, casting along the deeper ledges.
After a few casts, something hit it and kept coming towards me. I set the hook, but probably not real good.
The fish went by me, heading under the docks.....it was good size, and I couldn't hold it back from going
under the docks. I had called to Don, thinking I may need help landing it from the dock, but about that time
it got off. Never got a chance to see what it was, but last year caught several nice bass using the large RR,
in this same area. It was probably a world record largemouth.

Launched the boat.... with new wiring, fish finder, trolling motor, etc...... checked out a few places,
becoming familiar with the new fish finder. Will need a few more sessions learning how to use all the "stuff".

March 10th

Returned from Florida....arriving at Red Arrow at 4:50 pm. Had a great time visiting Joe and Sandy.
Had a busy week taking in the sights, sounds, and tastes of the Sunshine State, including a Twins spring
training game at Fort Meyers (Pirates 5, Twins 2).

Feb. 28th

This is the last report for 10 days.....Barb and I leave for Florida tomorrow morning. Also, you'll have to
cover the early morning breakfast duties.... feeding the trout.

5:20 at the dock, left at 6:45....lot's to get ready for the trip. Tried 4 different baits.....no fish. The
pearl Swimming Minnow picked up a nice branch......thought walleye for a brief moment, but no fight
and no fish. The branch looked familiar, I think I've relocated it several times.

Don (#7), and I went to the Bass Pro Shop yesterday afternoon, after attending the sporting goods sale
with you. We bought new fish finders, so while my boat is dry-docked, can have the wiring/transducer
replaced.

On the way to Springfield, Don mentioned taking his aqua view camera to the dock, and saw about 20
Crappies, hanging in and around the trees. This morning, I envisioned those crappies sitting there laughing
at this jerk on one end, waiting for the jerk on the other end. This jerk fooled them..... picked up my poles
and left.

See you in a week or so.

Feb. 27th Report

To the dock at 5:30...30 degrees, but not too bad, super calm. My boat stall looks very lonesome, we pulled
the boat yesterday afternoon, to get the wiring worked on. Bought a trolling motor Sunday, hope to get a
Fish Finder today. Thanks Jeff for the invite to the dealers/resort owners warehouse sale. Maybe they'll
have locators, if not, off to Springfield and the Bass Pro Shop.

Back to the dock.... On maybe the 4th-5th retrieve, I felt something, maybe a branch or maybe a fish
checking out the Crappie Split-tail, salt/pepper, tipped with a minnow. Tried the same area, this time
hooked onto a 11-12" Crappie. As I was netting the crappie, noticed a splash, that seemed right next to the
net, and at first thought the fish jumped out of the net. Quite dark, but I did have the crappie in the net.

Came back to the same spot, running the jig deep, and as I started jigging it up, still deep, and right below
the dock, got a hit, a good hit. I was pretty sure this was a walleye. It was, and will probably measure in
the 20-22 inch range. In the same area, but turning to the other side of the dock, letting the jig swing down
from the out-lake side, got another hit, and again thinking walleye. It kept heading for the trees, but finally
convinced it to come into the net. This walleye is smaller, but a quick measure with tape, shows it just over
the 18 inch minimum, maybe by 1/2-1 inch.

I hadn't noticed how cold it was getting, the wind came up, the temp went down, and the poles began icing,
and I didn't dress for this cold. So, fished the split-tail a while, then tried a fuzzy grub, before returning to
the cabin at 7.

Update on the weekend theft/vandalism...with the help of a helicopter, police found the stolen boat abandoned, at a nearby (Cty Rd 15) landing. The police investigation continues.

Feb. 26th

Hadn't fished for a couple of days......so left at 5;40 to try the dock.....no wind at all today, what a
difference a day makes. And, glad to see my boat's still there.

Took two poles, and after a bit, caught a nice (12-13 inch) crappie on the Crappie Split-tail, nothing
else. Actually, I just couldn't get into fishing this morning. Still wondering about the weekend incident.
I was back at the cabin at 6:10.

I probably won't fish much today, and of course if I do, it will be from the dock. I do plan to take the
boat out to see if it runs okay. I know it starts, hopefully runs. Will have to take the boat out, where it
can be checked, repaired, and new stuff/wiring installed.

Today will pick up a copy of the Sheriff's report, go to the insurance company, and scheduled an oil
change/lube for the car, to get ready for our Florida trip....leaving Thursday morning.

I did buy a trolling motor yesterday, upgrading from a 44 lb thrust, to 50 lbs. Also purchased a cable and
padlock. And, plan to go to Springfield (Bass Pro Shop) tomorrow, to check out their large selection of Depth/Fish Finders.

If I do any further fishing today, I'll include the info in tomorrow's report.

Feb. 25th

Another LWA....probably no fishing. 5:30 AM, arrived at the dock to very strong winds from the west, with
major white caps & all. As I crossed the walkway, the dock and the boat's were really bouncing around. Noticed Don's (cabin 7) boat was untied at one end, and the top to the boat motor was off, and was laying
nearby. Wind?

Then to my boat... noticed things on the floor that had been on the bench seats and tray under the
windshield. And, saw the cover to the trolling battery had been partially removed. The wind was very
strong, but....

While there are lights on the dock, it's still quite dark at that time of day, especially at the ends of the
boat stalls. As I looked around, saw that my trolling motor was gone, the depth/fish finder was gone, got
the spotlight from the storage area, it was still there, checked under the dash and steering wheel. The
wires to the depth finder had been cut. Later found that they also cut the wires to the aerator and bilge
pump.

Back to Don's boat...I noticed his fish locators were also gone, and they had pulled out a bunch of wires
from his console. Decided to see if my boat motor would start. It did, so that was good.

Went down the dock to the rental boats....they had tried to remove the trolling motors, but those were
chained on. On Jeff's boat they tried to take the in-dash radio, and on the pontoon, broke other radios,
tape players, etc.

Found out that these "Ozark Outlaws" hit docks of two other nearby resorts, involving at least 10 individual boats.....including taking one boat motor, and one entire boat is missing.

Talked with the county Sheriff's office, giving him a list of stolen items and damages. Can pick up an
official report on Monday.

Not a good day! The boats will have to be pulled out, to repair and replace wiring, and look for other
problems, etc. Another "No Fishing Day", and it may be awhile before any fishing from the boat.

Feb. 24th

About ready to leave for the dock at 5:30, it was raining, but that's okay. Well, a major bolt of lightning
changed my mind. A LWA had already been issued, and ran through tomorrow at 6 PM.

Winds and rains continued, making for a "No Fishing Day". Not a good day to start the Bass Tournament on
Bull Shoals.

Feb. 23rd

Hit the dock at 5:15...left the dock after 15-20 minutes, and went boating. The temp of 42 was a bit
deceiving, coupled with the 9 mph wind, it was cold on the lake.

About daylight, I was searching for a flock of noisy geese overhead...when a 17 inch crappie stole the
minnow from the Salt & Pepper, Bobby Garland Crappie Split tail/red line rig. This had been a favorite
combo the past couple of days. But nothing today. The size of the crappie is an estimate.

It was quite cold, so after trying 2 other locations, and after losing two baits to the underwater trees,
decided it was time to feed the trout, and head to the cabin (for some major re-rigging).

The past couple of days, the Arkansas Game & Fish, has been adding brush in this area, to the designated,
blue sign locations. It's quite an operation to observe. Using only natural materials, trees/brush weighted
down with rock from the shoreline, they pull it from shore by boat, then drop it in the lake. The only
non-natural item is the wire used to hold the weigh to the trees. I think they do this replenishing every
few years, as the trees & brush decay/rot away.

There's two, one-day bass tournaments on Bull Shoals this weekend. I feel sorry for those working the
Saturday contest, if the forecast is correct....90% chance of thunderstorms, some could be severe, and
winds 20-25 mph. Sounds ugly.

The winds were already picking up when I went back out about 2 PM, tried several places, couldn't find
a protected area, and after battling the winds for a while, decided to come in....about 3. This is known
as a "Skunked Day".

Barb and I checked out the Bulls Shoals dock area, to see how the bass tournament was proceeding.....
quite a few big rigs in town. I mean Big; 225-250 HP motors, tandem axle trailers, trolling motors about
the size of my boat motor (40 HP), very impressive. Can't wait to see how well the pros do.

I plan to get out early again tomorrow, wind & weather permitting....and before the big guys hit the
water.

Feb. 22nd

Temp at 40, 5 mph wind, at 5:20 when I left for fishing. Spent maybe 15 minutes, using two different
poles, on the dock, which produced nothing. Boated down the shoreline, and with the help of a spotlight,
found the large flat rock on the bank, the start of the area I want to fish.

Before coming into the main structure, and before marking any fish, picked up a nice crappie. It isn't
quite as easy as daytime fishing...from trying to catch a minnow in the bucket, grabbing the landing net,
hooking the rubber net while unhooking the fish (which never happens when you can see), and on & on.

A couple more passes, another crappie, 11 1/2", same as 1st one. After a while with no action, went to
the Fuzzy Grub, and caught a bass, the same 11-13 inch range as yesterday. Seems there's a two crappie
max, per hole. Crossed to the other side, and before long caught another bass, same size. I held it up to
show my wife, before returning it to the water. I knew Barb would be watching today, after missing all of yesterday's fun.

I stayed in the area for a while, and circled some massive under water structure. Figured I would get a fish,
or a snag. The latter won out.... stealing the Fuzzy Grub.....so decided to head in, and feed the trout. It
was 8:15.

Guess what....Barb did see me "battle" the lunker? bass, and I know she was super impressed (she didn't
actually say so, but I know).

Went back out around 3....this time the "two crappie max" was waived...nothing. Lots of boat traffic,
great weather, and tournament time is approaching. As I hung around the brush pile, a bass boat was
casting in a nearby dock area. Just as he decide to leave, revving up his mega motor (which stands the
boat on end), at that very moment, I had a hit on the Fuzzy Grub. I was pretty sure it would be a bass,
but didn't want to put it in the boat, until the bass guy left. I'm sure he saw my pull bent, but in about 3
seconds, he was outta the county. He missed it....I know he'll be envious, but he'll never know just how
big it was.

I came in just before 5, and packed up for another day. Oh, the bass..... it measured at least 11, maybe
12 inches.

Feb. 21

Left for the dock at 5:30, temp 42, with little wind. After a bit, caught a 9 inch non-keeper, a little later
a 12" keeper crappie. It was so nice, decided to go out in the boat before daylight, be in place at daybreak.
I stayed on the south side, past the deep ledge area, where I had marked fish before.

They were in there, and I had 2 nice crappies before too long. With the slight wind, I could hang right
over the structure and fish, and then caught a 15 3/4 largemouth, barely over the minimum (15). That was
fun, with the ultralight rod. Nothing for a while, so went straight across, to an area that can be seen from
our cabin window.

In a matter of minutes, caught 5 bass, all in about 10 minutes. The bass were small, but that was really fun. Between bass 4 & 5, a 14+ crappie. Things slowed, so went across, down along the point. Marked fish here
too. but couldn't get a bite. Back to the previous spot, and caught more small bass. Actually, I lost track of
how many bass. Most bass fun for a long time, even though they were small.

Came in at 9, fed the trout, back to the cabin, and couldn't wait to see if my wife had seen any of my
catches. We have binoculars sitting right on the table. She has watched me fish this area before, when
I haven't caught anything, and she's seen a variety of birds, even an armadillo. But today, did she see me
catch one single fish. NO!!

I even held up some of the fish, including the very nice crappie, but she didn't see anything. Oh...she
did see me boating between different locations, and said it looked like I was speeding.

Out at 1 .... back to this morning's spot, caught two nice crappies in a short period of time, and then
several bass, but less than 15". Hit the next spot, again catching several bass. Most of the bass for the day
were in the 11-12 inch range. There are two bass tournaments in the area this weekend, and a number of fishermen are pre-fishing, with their 200-250 horse motors, and $40-$50K boats.

Probably a good time for a tournament, great weather, the bass seem to be very active, maybe triggered
by the warming water. This was the my best bass catch in a very long time....no size, but good numbers
and lot's of FUN!!! Returned to the cabin at 3:30, and couldn't wait to hear Barb's reaction to all my catches.

Well....once again, Barb missed every catch that happened in plain view of the cabin's window..... but
she'll watch tomorrow, she said.

Feb. 20th

It was 52 degrees when I left for the dock, wind at 10 mph. Once again they're issuing a Lake Wind
Advisory, from 9 to 4 PM. They may miss the times a bit (large area), but they are quite accurate in
forecasting these advisories.

Again, on the dock at 5:30, it didn't seem as warm as the Mtn Home numbers, which is probably 15
miles away & inland. And the high humidity at 82% combined with the wind, ....makes it feel cold.
Also making it feel cold....I didn't get a fish, not even a bite, not even a good snag. Well, I did get
one good snag......got out of it without losing line/bait. Returned all 4 pole/bait combos to the locker
about 7 o'clock, planning to head out in the boat, prior to the LWA arriving.

Fed the trout at 8, took the boat to 5 different locations. Marked lots of fish at the first stop, tried
numerous baits.... not even a bite. Moved to the next, and next, and..... same results, nothing.
When I came in at 10, the winds had picked up but were not at advisory levels yet.

The day turned out beautiful.....we had a high of 78 when in Mtn. Home, and while it stayed windy
all afternoon, it never reached advisory levels, and as of 4:30, not a hint of the scattered thunderstorms.

Zero fish for the day, but a great day.

Feb. 19th

There's a LWA for today, from 8 AM to 6 PM, with gusts to 40 mph forecast. I left for the dock at
5:20, the 39 degree temp was misleading....it was cold, even though the wind was only 5 mph.

Don, of cabin 7 & WI. had arrived at 4 AM, and caught 3 crappies in a short period, was trying to
get a 4th before leaving. I got 1 keeper shortly after arriving, and tried until 7:35 to get another....
but didn't. Don left about sunrise without the 4th.

After trying for crappies, I spent some time with a jig/shiner combination, then cast a large, white
Road Runner from the dock's platform along the deep ledge (have caught some nice Bass on occasion),
..... neither worked. Returned to the cabin.

Fed the trout at 8:45, and since the winds were still in the 5 mph range, decided to take advantage
of the LWA reprieve. Went back to yesterday's first stop, marked lots of fish in 28-40 feet of water,
hanging around, over, and between brush piles. With the help of the trolling motor, could hang right
over the brush. In a matter of minutes, caught a 12" crappie, followed by 2 small, 12 inch, largemouth.
It was fun, and working just like it's suppose to.....for a while.

With nothing for 10-15 minutes, and the winds increasing a bit, switched to a little larger bait, chartreuse
Fuzzy Grub. Had 1 hit, but missed it. And, the winds were increasing, so decided to give one more place
a quick shot. Didn't last long there, about 10:30 the LWA had arrived. Back to the cabin about 11.