The lake level is 554.38 and has dropped 3.3 inches in the last 24-hours with sluice gates open equivalent to a little over one generator. The White River at Newport is 7.44 feet and still low. The level is down almost 3-feet from when they stated dropping on August 14th. This is good even though the water is wasted and not generating anything as the generators have been broken for several weeks. Maybe they do not know how to fix them or are waiting for the parts from China. It is costing several million dollars but it is just tax payers money and there is no incentive. The surface water temperature is 90 degrees and the thermocline is at 30-ft. with very cold water at 33. The visibility is poor and the water is stained green and not good for diving. It will get better as things cool and that is to start Saturday Night with a cold front. If you are planning a fishing trip I would advise coming after Labor Day. Stay tuned and I will let you know when things get better. I am getting a few fish both pole fishing and diving but not very many.The lake is at a good level and excellent for boating and swimming. It looks to be a very busy holiday as Blackburns has been full for a couple of months and having to turn people away. They are taking advantage of the best prices in the Ozarks and a free stall for their boat. You best chance to catch fish is to go out early or late and drop a spoon in and around main lake brush at 25-35 feet especially on points. Give Debbie a call at 870-492-5115 for a reservation and remember Blackburns has $59/day one bedroom cabins starting September 5th and they are filling up fast. Some weeks are already sold out. You can save a minimum of $25/day from staying elsewhere.
