Arkansas Game and Fish Commission enhances summer fishing with attractors

Arkadelphia, Ark. — As summer heat pushes fish into deeper parts of Arkansas lakes, anglers are relying on submerged fish attractors placed by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission to find productive fishing spots.

The AGFC maintains thousands of fish attractors, many placed offshore in over 29 Arkansas lakes last year alone, officials said.

According to Sean Lusk, Fisheries Staff Biologist for the AGFC, crews and volunteers installed attractors at more than 270 locations in 2023 using both natural and artificial materials, including PVC structures and submerged cedar trees.

“These structures vary in type and size depending on location and lake ownership,” Lusk said. “We work with lake owners to remove shoreline cedars and ensure attractors won’t be boating hazards.”

An interactive map at AGFC.com/maps allows users to locate attractors by the lake and see details like material type and placement year, Lusk said.

John Duncan, owner of Yo-yo’s Guide Service on DeGray Lake, said crappie respond well to a variety of cover, and anglers should try multiple attractors to find a pattern.

“In summer, start simple,” Duncan said. “Slip bobbers and minnows work for anyone, and once you find fish, mark your spot and fish smart.”