Fishing at Lake Ouachita, Garland County, Arkansas

• Overview

  Lake Ouachita sits in Garland County, out in Arkansas. It stands 594 feet above sea level. At roughly 59.7 sq miles it ranks among the larger waters in the region. Its shape is complex, and the arms fish like separate waters. Of the waters listed here in Garland County, this is the largest. Nearest town is Piney, 14 miles off. Rockwell follows at 15 miles, then Mount Ida at 17 miles. Rules can differ a short way off, since the county line is near.

• Where to Fish on Lake Ouachita

  Depth on file is 200 ft. The old creek line under the surface is the feature worth finding. Rip-rap along the wall holds fish that the open bank never does. Fish documented in Garland County include largemouth bass, orangebelly darter, longear sunfish and bluegill. The list covers the county rather than this water alone, so treat it as a guide. Lake Ouachita fishes better once you know its edges.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warm month here averages 80°F; the cold one sits at 39°F. Cooler months are the productive ones on most of this water. March through May is the strongest run, with autumn a second stretch. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. It holds true on Lake Ouachita more years than not.

• Tackle & Baits

  The bank is open to all, according to our records. Nothing built is recorded close to the bank here. For the bass here, soft plastics worked slow along cover and a spinnerbait for searching do most of the work. Season dates differ by species, so read the table. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. Hot Springs Reservoir at 14 miles is the sensible second choice. Treat Lake Ouachita as unsettled until someone local tells you otherwise.