Butlas Fish population lokoing good according to MDWFP

[DonDon]

Fish Populations Rebound in Arkabutla Reservoir

MDWFP fisheries biologists saw dramatic increases in the numbers of fish during fall electrofishing efforts on Arkabutla Reservoir this year. Compared to 2012, catch rates of Largemouth Bass during these surveys increased from three to 73 bass per hour, and crappie catch rates increased from 17 to 33 crappie per hour. Bluegill catch rates also increased from 14 to 84 fish per hour. Not only are the numbers much greater, but growth of Largemouth Bass and White Bass spawned this year is also excellent.

"Some of these fish have already reached harvestable size," said MDWFP Fisheries Biologist Keith Meals. According to Meals, the number of fish have increased due to low water levels during 2012 which allowed the growth of vegetation on thousands of acres of exposed lake bottom. "Arkabutla is a very dynamic system, with water levels that change regularly," said Meals. "This vegetation flooded during spring 2013, which created excellent spawning habitat. Anglers should catch the benefits of this large spawn during the next few years."

[KDAVID1]

no doubt it will be on the upswing this year forward--but it still needs some time imo.

[bird down]

So if u like bass and bream fishing u should have a ball. In 2012 50% of the fish shocked were crappie, 41% bream, and 9% bass. In 2013 38% of the fish shocked were bass, 44% of the fish shocked were bream, and 18% were crappie.

[canebreaker]

Now everyone that checks our site will be on the lake catching everything they can. I'll let it rebound a bit more before going.

[Takeum]

Personally, I'd like to see lake view open once again,,,,, anyone hear anything about of that might happen?

[feelay]

Personally, I'd like to see lake view open once again,,,,, anyone hear anything about of that might happen?

It's open every day....if you are one of the fortunate few who has a key.

[jimfish]

Have never caught a bream from butla.

[ATM]

These are the same goobers that said the last shocking showed great numbers of fish too.

[jimfish]

They work for Obama and you can keep your current ins to.

[slabin]

We shall find out shortly wont be long, but you better get ready to get humbled cause butla is one tough lake to fish. Here today gone tomorrow