Howard Prairie campgrounds and the resort are now open, as is the store. With low water levels, the marina boat ramp is closed. Access at Howard Prairie is currently limited to the gravel ramp near the dam. Unfortunately, irrigation drawdown has already begun and the lake is drawing down.

Anglers are still catching trout up at Howard Prairie both from the dam and still fishing off  the point across from the dam. There is also some bank access from the 37 road, but 4x4 is recommended. PowerBait and nightcrawlers, still fished from the bottom are producing, but it’s probably averaging 1.5-2 hours per fish as was seen this last weekend during a creel.  Fish are of good size though, and still are good table fair. Try smoking them for something different. Some fish can also be caught trolling and the gravel boat ramp near the dam is still accessible for smaller vessels.

Anglers should be prepared for toxic algae blooms. Learn how to recognize algae blooms and get tips for fishing safely.

No legal trout will be stocked this year due to another low water year. The lake is 12 percent full and already dropping. Wednesday morning it was approximately 7,422 acre feet.