What You'll Find at DeGray Lake

DeGray Lake is a 13,800-acre reservoir in Pike County, Arkansas, about 30 miles south of Hot Springs. The lake holds largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill in a landscape of pine forest and rocky shoreline. The water stays relatively clear year-round, and the lake's depth — averaging 40 feet with holes exceeding 80 feet — creates distinct seasonal patterns that change where fish hold and what techniques work.

The lake was impounded in 1969 by a dam on the Little Missouri River. That age means the structure is established: standing timber in the upper arms, rocky points along the main lake, and a defined channel that bass and catfish follow during seasonal movements. The Army Corps of Engineers manages the lake, and public boat ramps are located at Alikchi, Narrows, and Grenada — all free and maintained year-round.

Key Takeaways

  • DeGray Lake holds largemouth bass year-round, with spring and fall offering the most consistent action in 8 to 15 feet of water near rocky structure.
  • Catfish fishing is strongest from May through September using cut bait or chicken liver near the dam and in deeper holes along the main channel.
  • Crappie congregate around standing timber and brush piles in spring (March through May) and again in fall, with live minnows the most reliable bait.
  • Three free public ramps — Alikchi, Narrows, and Grenada — provide access, and the lake has no horsepower restrictions on motors.
  • Water temperature swings 40 degrees from winter to summer, so seasonal location changes are more dramatic than in shallower reservoirs.

Bass Fishing Across the Seasons

Spring (March through May) is the most predictable season for largemouth bass at DeGray. Fish move from 30 to 40 feet of water into the shallows to spawn, and they stage on rocky points and ridges in 8 to 15 feet before moving shallower. Crankbaits that mimic shad — chartreuse or white — work well on these transition zones. Early morning and late afternoon produce better than midday, and overcast days often outfish sunny ones.

Summer (June through August) pushes bass deeper and into shade. The thermocline forms around 25 to 30 feet, and bass hold tight to structure — rocky ledges, submerged timber, and the channel itself. Vertical jigging with a 3/8-ounce jig and a plastic trailer works better than casting. Fish early and late; midday fishing is slow unless you target the deepest holes or shaded banks with overhanging trees.

Fall (September through November) mirrors spring in many ways. Bass move back to intermediate depths as water cools, and rocky points again become productive. Topwater lures work in early morning, and crankbaits produce throughout the day. November can be excellent as water temperature drops into the 50s and bass feed aggressively before winter dormancy.

Winter (December through February) is the slowest season, but fish are catchable. They hold in the deepest holes — 60 to 80 feet — and move very little. Slow presentations like jigging spoons or dragging a jig along the bottom near the dam can produce, but expect fewer bites and longer waits between them.

Catfish and Crappie Patterns

Catfish fishing at DeGray peaks from May through September when water temperature reaches 70 degrees and stays there. The dam area holds catfish year-round, and the deeper holes along the main channel are reliable spots. Cut shad, chicken liver, or stink bait fished on the bottom with a simple three-way rig or a slip sinker produces steady action. Fish at night or early morning for the most bites; catfish feed throughout the day but are more aggressive in low light.

Crappie congregate around standing timber and brush piles, and the upper arms of the lake — where the Little Missouri River enters — hold the densest populations. Spring (March through May) is prime time; fish move into 6 to 12 feet of water to spawn around submerged trees. Live minnows suspended under a bobber or jigged vertically with a 1/16-ounce jig work best. Fall crappie fishing (September through October) is nearly as good as spring, with the same structure and baits producing.

Bluegill are abundant and often overlooked. They school in shallow water (2 to 8 feet) around any structure — downed trees, rock piles, or weed edges. Small spinners, inline spinnerbaits, or live crickets catch them readily. They are not a trophy fishery, but they provide consistent action and are excellent for children or anyone wanting to catch fish without long waits.

Tackle and Technique for DeGray Conditions

The rocky bottom and clear water at DeGray demand sharp hooks and good line visibility. For bass, a 6.5 to 7-foot medium-power rod with 10 to 14-pound monofilament or braided line handles crankbaits and jigs well. Fluorocarbon leader (6 to 8 pounds) reduces visibility in clear water. For catfish, a heavier setup — 7 to 8-foot rod with 20-pound monofilament — handles cut bait and the occasional 40-pound catfish.

The lake's depth and rocky structure mean you will lose lures. Carry extras of whatever you plan to throw. Crankbaits in the 2 to 4-inch range work better than larger baits because the forage base is shad and small bluegill. Jigs in brown, black, and green match the lake's bottom composition. For crappie, a light spinning rod (5.5 to 6 feet) with 4 to 6-pound line and a 1/16-ounce jig is standard.

Boat Ramps and Access Points

Alikchi Ramp is on the north shore near the dam and provides the most direct access to deep water and catfish habitat. The ramp is concrete, well-maintained, and rarely crowded. Parking is ample, and there is a small picnic area.

Narrows Ramp sits on the eastern arm of the lake and is the best launch for crappie and bluegill fishing in the upper lake. The ramp is smaller than Alikchi but adequate for standard trailers. This area is quieter and less trafficked than the main lake.

Grenada Ramp is on the western shore and provides good access to the main lake and rocky points. It is a solid middle option if Alikchi is crowded. All three ramps are free and maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers.

Seasonal Timing and Weather Patterns

Spring weather at DeGray is unpredictable — warm days followed by cold fronts that slow fishing. March and early April can still see water temperatures in the 50s, so fish are sluggish. By late April and May, water reaches 65 to 70 degrees and fishing improves dramatically. A warming trend after a cold front often triggers a feeding spree.

Summer heat (June through August) brings afternoon thunderstorms, especially in July. Morning fishing before storms is often excellent. Water temperature peaks in August around 82 to 85 degrees, pushing fish deep and making midday fishing nearly impossible. Plan to fish early and late.

Fall cooling (September through November) is gradual. September still feels like summer, but by October water drops into the 60s and fishing improves. November is often the best month of the year — water is cool, fish are aggressive, and crowds are light. Winter (December through February) is slow and cold, with water temperatures in the 40s to low 50s.

Regulations and What to Bring

Arkansas fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 and older. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license and is available online or at tackle shops near the lake. There are no special restrictions for DeGray — standard Arkansas bass and catfish limits apply. Largemouth bass limit is 6 per day with no size restriction, though most anglers practice catch-and-release for fish under 12 inches.

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water — the lake is exposed and there is little shade on the water. A depth finder is not essential but makes finding structure much easier, especially in summer. A net helps land catfish and larger bass. Life jackets are required by law for anyone under 13 and recommended for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Spring (April and May) and fall (October and November) are most consistent. Water temperature is moderate, fish are active, and the weather is comfortable. Summer is possible but requires early morning and late evening fishing. Winter is slowest but still produces for patient anglers.

Do I need a boat to fish DeGray Lake?

A boat is helpful but not required. Bank fishing is possible at the ramps and along some public shoreline, though access is limited compared to other Arkansas lakes. Most productive fishing requires reaching deeper water and structure, which a boat makes easier.

What size catfish are common at DeGray?

Channel catfish in the 2 to 8-pound range are most common. Larger catfish (15 to 40 pounds) are caught regularly, especially near the dam and in deep holes. Flathead catfish have become more common in recent years and can exceed 50 pounds.

Can I fish DeGray Lake at night?

Yes, night fishing is allowed. Catfish and crappie often bite better at night, and some bass anglers fish topwater after dark. Bring a headlamp and be aware of other boats. The lake is quieter at night, but visibility is limited.

Are there fish cleaning stations at DeGray Lake?

The ramps do not have dedicated cleaning stations, but picnic areas have tables and water access. Plan to clean fish at home or bring supplies to do it at the ramp. Check with the Army Corps of Engineers office for current facilities.