What Lake Conway offers and when to fish it

Lake Conway is a 22,000-acre reservoir in Faulkner County, about 30 miles north of Little Rock. The lake holds largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill, with largemouth bass the primary draw for most anglers. The water is relatively shallow — average depth around 12 feet — which means bass relate closely to structure: fallen timber, grass beds, and channel ledges. Summer heat pushes bass deep and into shade; spring and fall produce the most consistent action across the lake.

The lake has two main public boat launches: the Conway City Park launch on the north end and the Faulkner County Park launch on the south end. Both have parking and are free to use. The north end tends to be shallower and grassier; the south end has more timber and deeper channels. Weather and water clarity shift throughout the year — spring runoff can muddy the water, while summer heat can create algae blooms in the shallows.

Key Takeaways

  • Lake Conway holds largemouth bass year-round, with spring and fall offering the most reliable fishing across shallow flats and timber.
  • Two free public launches serve the lake: Conway City Park on the north end and Faulkner County Park on the south end.
  • Summer heat pushes bass into deeper water and shade; focus on channel ledges, submerged timber, and grass edges during hot months.
  • Catfish bite well at night year-round, especially in deeper holes and near the old river channel that runs through the lake.

Spring fishing: shallow flats and spawning bass

March through May, largemouth bass move into shallow water to spawn. Water temperature between 60 and 75 degrees triggers the spawn, and bass position themselves on flats with hard bottom — gravel, clay, or sand — in 2 to 6 feet of water. The north end of Lake Conway, near the Conway City Park launch, has extensive shallow flats that warm quickly in spring and hold spawning fish.

Fish shallow-running crankbaits, soft plastics rigged on light jig heads, and topwater lures early in the morning and late in the afternoon. The middle of the day can be productive too, since spawning bass are territorial and will strike out of aggression. Sight-fishing — looking for beds in clear water — works well if you have polarized sunglasses and a shallow-draft boat or canoe.

Summer: deep channels and night catfishing

By June, water temperature climbs above 80 degrees and largemouth bass retreat to deeper water and shade. The old river channel that runs through Lake Conway becomes the primary holding area; this channel averages 25 to 35 feet deep and holds bass throughout the summer. Fish deep-diving crankbaits, Carolina rigs, and vertical jigging presentations along the channel ledges, especially where timber or rock provides additional cover.

Summer is prime time for catfish. Channel catfish and flatheads are most active at night, when water temperature is cooler and they hunt actively. Fish cut bait, chicken liver, or live bluegill in deeper holes and along the channel after sunset. A simple three-way rig with a sinker and a short leader to your hook works well; cast near timber or deep banks and wait. Many anglers fish two or three rods and stay until midnight or later.

Fall: transition zones and mixed action

September through November, water temperature drops and bass move back toward shallower structure. The transition from summer to fall is often the most productive time on Lake Conway because bass are actively feeding to build reserves for winter. Fish the edges of grass beds, timber in 8 to 15 feet of water, and the transition zone between shallow flats and deeper channels.

Crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics all produce during fall. Early morning and late afternoon are peak times, but midday fishing can be good too. Crappie also become more active in fall, especially around brush piles and standing timber in 10 to 20 feet of water. If you enjoy panfish, bring light tackle and small jigs or live minnows.

Winter: deep holes and patient fishing

December through February, largemouth bass are sluggish and concentrated in the deepest parts of the lake. The old river channel and the deepest holes near the dam hold most of the bass. Fishing is slower, but patient anglers using slow presentations — drop-shot rigs, small jigs, and live shiners — can find fish. Expect fewer bites but larger average size, since only committed bass are feeding.

Catfish remain active throughout winter, though they too move deeper. Night fishing for catfish continues to produce, especially in the deepest holes. Winter is a good time to focus on structure and location rather than covering water; mark your GPS coordinates of productive holes and return to them consistently.

Tackle and technique for Lake Conway

For largemouth bass, a 6.5 to 7-foot medium-power rod with a baitcasting reel works well for crankbaits and jigs. A 7 to 7.5-foot spinning rod handles lighter soft plastics and topwater lures. Line choice depends on cover: 12 to 17-pound fluorocarbon for open water and grass, 20 to 25-pound braid for timber and heavy vegetation. The shallow, weedy nature of Lake Conway means you will spend time picking vegetation off your lure — this is normal.

For catfish, a medium-heavy rod with a conventional reel and 20 to 30-pound monofilament is standard. Catfish do not require finesse; they hit hard and run hard, so heavier tackle is practical. A simple three-way rig or a basic slip-sinker rig works fine. Many anglers use rod holders and fish multiple rods at night, setting the hook when they feel a bite.

Access, regulations, and practical details

Conway City Park launch is located at 1500 Amity Road, Conway, AR 72032. Faulkner County Park launch is on the south end near Mayflower. Both are open dawn to dusk and have parking for trailers. There is no launch fee at either location. The lake is open year-round for fishing.

Arkansas fishing regulations require a valid fishing license for anyone 16 and older. Bass have a 12-inch minimum length limit and a daily limit of six fish. Catfish have no minimum length and a daily limit of 25 fish. Check the current Arkansas Game and Fish Commission regulations before you go, as rules can change. The lake is surrounded by private land, so stick to public water and the two public launches.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to fish Lake Conway?

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are most consistent. Water temperature is moderate, bass are actively feeding, and you can fish throughout the day. Summer is productive for catfish at night but challenging for bass during daylight.

Can I fish from shore at Lake Conway?

Most of Lake Conway is surrounded by private property. Public shore access is limited to the two public parks. A boat is the most practical way to fish the lake, though you may find small areas of public bank near the launches.

Do I need a boat to fish Lake Conway?

A boat is highly recommended. The lake is large and most productive structure is spread across open water. A canoe or kayak works for shallow areas near the north end, but a small motorboat gives you access to the deeper channels and timber that hold bass year-round.

What size bass are typical at Lake Conway?

Most largemouth bass run 1 to 3 pounds. Fish over 5 pounds are caught but not common. The shallow water and heavy fishing pressure mean the lake produces numbers rather than trophy fish, though winter fishing in deep holes occasionally yields larger bass.

Is Lake Conway good for beginners?

Yes. The lake is close to Little Rock, has easy public access, and holds fish year-round. Spring and fall are forgiving seasons for learning. Start at the north end near Conway City Park, fish shallow flats with simple crankbaits or soft plastics, and you will catch bass.