MILLWOOD

From page A9

Arkansas. On Saturday, Jodie Raffaelli (with bass in the top left photo) and his 12.3-pound largemouth took Big Bass honors in the 7th annual Big Bass Fishing Tournament sponsored by Cooper Tire and benefiting the United Way of Greater Texarkana.

On Sunday, the Mr Bass tournament put boats on the water and a couple of anglers pulled out some monsters. Keith Lanier (center photo) caught an 11.6-pound largemouth, while Buzz Sawyer (far right) brought in one that weighed 10.6 pounds.

If this has you itching to wet a hook, plan a trip to Millwood Lake and some big bass or one of any other lakes and rivers.

There are also good reports from throughout the state, despite this recent spate of chilly weather between storms.

Around the Boathouse

• The AGFC on March 10 temporarily removed the courtesy dock at the Lakeview Access on Bull Shoals Lake (photo right) due to the high water level.

Bull Shoals as of this Thursday was 7 feet over normal pool. At this particular access, the boat ramp and parking lot become flooded when the lake level rises to an elevation of approximately 665 feet (normal pool is 659 feet msl). Also, at this lake level AGFC staff cannot install the courtesy dock straight due to the curve in the access road, which means it impedes access.

Therefore, the staff temporarily removed the courtesy dock and will reinstall it once the lake level recedes to the boat ramp's top or rises onto the access road. The AGFC apologize for any inconvenience this may cause while anglers try to access Bull Shoals Lake.

The access site is still open; however, if you plan to launch at this access, be mindful of underwater obstacles (signs and guardrails) from the submerged parking lot. Also, the AGFC Fisheries Office in Mountain Home is still seeking a volunteer or more to adjust and maintain this courtesy dock. If interested, please contact the supervisor at jeremy.risley@ agfc.ar.gov or (870) 706-0150.