Pickthorne Lake near Jacksonville: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Set in Lonoke County, Arkansas, this is Pickthorne Lake. Height above sea level is 256 feet. The water covers around 326 acres, which puts most of it out of reach from the bank. The bank runs about 3.1 miles all the way round, so one visit can cover most of it. Supplies mean a trip to Jacksonville, 4.3 miles off. After that come Cabot at 4.8 miles and Little Rock Air Force Base at 5.6 miles. A county line runs close by, so local bylaws can differ within a short drive.

• Where to Fish on Pickthorne Lake

  There is no published depth for this one, so start shallow and work out. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. Records held for Lonoke County cover black bullhead, rainbow trout, spotted gar and yellow bullhead. County data is a starting point rather than a guarantee. Pickthorne Lake gives up its fish to patience rather than distance.

• Seasonal Patterns

  July runs about 81°F on average, January about 39°F. The season runs year-round, with the peak either side of summer. Spring and autumn carry the fishing; summer squeezes it into the edges of the day. The cooler months are the comfortable ones to fish here. On Pickthorne Lake the same rules apply, with local timing.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing on record says whether the bank is open or closed. A made slipway is half a mile from here, which settles the boat question. There is recorded parking some half a mile off. A pier or jetty stands half a mile away, which helps on a crowded bank. Where a permit is needed, the nearest town usually sells it. Where tickets apply, they are sold in the nearest town rather than on the bank. Taton Lake sits 4.8 miles off and takes the overflow. Signs at Pickthorne Lake carry more weight than any list.