Outdoor writer and photographer Corbet Deary is featured regularly in The Sentinel-Record. Today, Deary takes readers on a journey to Harris Brake Lake.
Sandy and I recently loaded our dog, Sydney, in the rig and struck out on an afternoon excursion. Our intentions were to visit a small recreation area nestled in the heart of the Ouachitas, which we did.
And as it turned out, we still had ample time to visit yet another destination before the evening light gave way to darkness. That in mind, we embarked upon a short drive to a location I had visited several times throughout the years.
In fact, this particular body of water was one of those spots where I try to wet a hook at least once or twice on an annual basis. And although I failed to carry a rod and reel along with me on this particular trip, I was more than satisfied with simply kicking around along sections of its shoreline, and experiencing a casual jaunt in the midst of the wonderful outdoors.
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Situated next door to the Harris Brake Wildlife Management Area, Harris Brake Lake is the third-largest Arkansas Game and Fish Commission-owned reservoir throughout the state.
The reservoir is located just south of Perryville, and can be seen from Highway 9/10 on occasions. There is actually a ramp on this side of the lake. However, most of the land alongside the highway is privately owned.
The lake can most easily be accessed from Highway 300. In fact, two public ramps are accessible from this particular stretch of road.
Those who are not familiar with the lake might find it advantageous to utilize the first ramp that is accessible from 300, as it is located within a stone's throw of a bait shop.
Of course, the proprietor will be more than happy to share the most up-to-date fishing report. And of course, many will likely be in need of live bait. And those who are more into casting artificial lures might just find the model that has recently proven effective on their shelves.
Those with physical limitations, and those who do not own a boat, might find Harris Brake Lake of interest, as it sports an impressive fishing pier.
One would think that the waters within casting distance of the pier see their fair share of fishing pressure, However, a local angler, who was utilizing the structure during our most recent visit, assured me that she catches her fair share of channel catfish from the structure. And I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if other native gamefish species frequent this particular section of the lake, as well.
I suppose one could find a few designated primitive camping sites along the water's edge. But it appears that many anglers consider the lake as a day-trip destination.
The reservoir was constructed in 1955 and is relatively shallow, in comparison to our area lakes. Although its deepest waters are 28 feet, it sports an average depth of 10 feet.
Standing timber is prominent throughout sections of the main bay, much of which protrudes above the surface. Other sections, however, are far easier to navigate. But one should bear submerged structures in mind within its perimeters until they become familiar with the body of water.
Speaking of structures, the fish swimming within its perimeters should have no issues finding their preferred cover. Along with large stands of dead timber, several cypress trees can be found growing in the lake, as well.
Artificial fish structures have been added to the mix, and those who prefer fishing alongside docks will have plenty of optimal waters awaiting them.
A few sunken islands lurk in the murky waters. Of course, the underwater points should never be ignored, nor should the channels winding along the substrate.
There are a few pockets strewn throughout the lake as well. And anybody who has spent much time fishing will likely be quick to agree that such waters are often effective. These indentures in the main body of water are often shaded and it is common to find water willow growing along their edges.
There are several houses situated along the shoreline's edge. However, other sections of banks are shaded by the canopy of native trees.
Now let's get down to the million-dollar question. What fish species seem to thrive most on this particular body of water? Well, one shouldn't be surprised if they notice a few rough fish in the shallows or swimming near the surface, as all of our lakes provide a habitat for such fish to thrive.
But it also sports a fair share of species that anglers notoriously pursue. Harris Brake is a great destination for those who enjoy coaxing panfish from the water.
I have actually visited this lake with intention of focusing predominantly on bream fishing. And I can't recall an outing when I didn't experience at least a little success. In fact, it is not uncommon to boat impressive yields when they are nesting.
Of course, it is essential to choose a time when they are actively spawning. But if one's timing is right they are nothing more than a tube of crickets from a memorable outing.
Although not an avid crappie angler, I have talked to several people who cast into these waters for this delectable table fare. Those who are planning to try their hand at crappie fishing on this particular body of water should certainly consider making a pit stop and chewing the fat with those manning the local bait shop.
Crappie can prove finicky at times and will be very particular. In turn, it might prove most advantageous to learn if they are hitting live bait or if they are most responsive to artificial presentations. And then comes the challenge of choosing the most effective colors and the proper depth.
I have also spent my fair share of time fishing within the perimeters of Harris Brake for largemouth bass. They too, can prove somewhat choosy. However, I would suspect that one can arrive at this body of water with a handful of lures with good odds of seeing some success.
A plastic worm is effective in just about any lake throughout the state. And my preferred choice of colors are watermelon/red and purple. But one doesn't necessarily have to cast soft plastics to entice a bass into biting. In fact, various topwater lures are often the ticket, while those who cast spinnerbaits are equally as apt to entice a few into the boat.
I have talked to several locals throughout the years who seem to enjoy soaking a nightcrawler or a chunk of chicken liver in its waters. And although most of the folks I have talked with catch predominantly channel catfish, I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if a few flatheads and blue cats can be found in the lake, as well.
Yep, the Harris Brake Lake has been serving anglers for more than 65 years. And I would suspect that it continues providing those who enjoy the sport with memories for years to come.
To get to Harris Brake Lake from Hot Springs, travel north on Park Avenue/Highway 5 for approximately 20 miles and turn left onto Highway 9 at Crow. Go 21 miles and take a left onto Highway 10/9 at Williams Junction. Travel 8.6 miles and take a right onto Highway 300. Drive eight-tenths of a mile and take a right onto Coffee Creek Landing Road. Travel 300 feet to the destination.
