AGFC reports strong outlook for Norfork Lake walleye population

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission says this year’s sampling efforts show a healthy and promising walleye population at Norfork Lake.
Fisheries biologists conducted annual spring sampling when water temperatures reached between 50 and 55 degrees. Crews used gill nets and nighttime electrofishing to evaluate the lake’s walleye population and collect information on fish size, growth and genetics.

According to the AGFC, biologists collected 321 walleye during the survey with fish averaging 18.5 inches in length.

Officials said most of the fish measured between 17 and 20 inches, indicating a strong population of harvestable-sized fish along with younger fish expected to reach keeper size within the next year.

The AGFC also reported anglers are already seeing strong success on the lake this spring.

Walleye are currently being caught near the bottom in approximately 25 feet of water around flats, brush piles and main lake points. Biologists said trolling and spoon fishing have been especially productive in recent days.

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