Emergency regulations are in effect for Howard Prairie Reservoir. All size and daily, and possession limits are off for all game species. Water levels are extremely low at Howard.  Another algae bloom appears to be starting and water clarity is being affected.

Still, the very light pressure is still resulting in some nice trout fishing. Find a point with some structure and fish off the bottom with powerbait, or troll deep. Trollers will want something flashy ahead of their lure to bring in fish, as clarity is being impacted.  

The temporary ramp beyond the Marina and Campground is now unusable except for kayaks or similar vessels. A drift boat could possibly be pushed off its trailer and pulled through the mud. There are still some rocky points though in this area for bank anglers willing to walk.

The ramp near the dam is nearly unusable for larger vessels. A vehicle should have 4x4 here.  A small boat, kayak or drift boat can still be launched here. There is good bank access here. 

Many other facilities including all of the improved boat ramps at Howard Prairie are maintained by Jackson County. These are all closed due to low water, short staffing, and COVID 19. For more information, visit their website. 

Bank fishing is possible, with social distancing precautions, near the dam and on the opposite bank of the Marina, off the 37 Road access.

The reservoir was at 17 percent full, and an algae bloom looks to be underway.