Fisheries biologists are asking anglers for feedback on a proposed renovation of Lake Atkins, according to a May 4 announcement. The lake has experienced a steady decline in productivity over the past few years, and officials are considering measures to improve fish populations.
Frank Leone, fisheries supervisor at the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) in Russellville, said that previous efforts to renovate the lake took place in 2002. “The lake underwent a full renovation in 2002 similar to what we’re proposing now,” Leone said. “It was refilled in 2003, and since then it has been stocked annually with channel catfish and Florida bass, known for faster growth rates and much better trophy potential than northern largemouth bass. The lake is also fertilized annually to maintain fish production.”
Recent surveys show that the number of large bass has declined, which Leone attributes partly to natural aging but mainly to the mixing of Florida bass genetics with those of northern largemouths entering from nearby streams. Crappie populations have also decreased despite length limits established in recent years.
Leone noted other challenges as well: “Annual crappie mortality is pretty high at 82 percent, with much of that being attributed to angler harvest,” he said. He added that yellow bass have become more common and are impacting resources needed by other species: “Yellow bass are undesirable because they rarely reach a decent size for harvest and they are extremely aggressive, which slows growth of (black) bass, crappie and bream species in the lake.”
If approved by the public, the proposed renovation would involve drawing down the lake for one summer to remove unwanted species before restocking with desirable fish such as Florida bass and various sunfish. Habitat improvements like brush piles or gravel beds could be made during this time.
“We also could potentially create 2 miles of marked boat lanes for safer navigation, depending on the budget we are allocated for the project,” Leone said. He emphasized that community support will determine how extensive these changes can be.
Leone explained that while some anglers still report good catches from Lake Atkins—including one notable trophy-class fish this year—the overall trend points toward declining productivity: “There are always going to be a few large fish in the system, but the overall productivity of the system has slowed and the lake is not reaching its potential for anglers.” He encouraged anglers who recall past renovations at Lake Atkins or similar lakes elsewhere to share their views through an online survey available until May 15.
“The AGFC has completed many renovations like this on our smaller and mid-sized lakes throughout the years, and we know the benefits they provide,” Leone said. “One year of inconvenience can lead to decades of improved fishing and memories on the water.”
