Area lake levels are stable at 355.5 ft, and are predicted to remain stable this week. Water temperatures have continued to fall, with an average surface temperature around the mid 50’s. Flow rates are now moderate to slow, with the beginning of this week predicted to be around the mid 25,000 cfs rate. Not getting many fishing reports this past week, as wind has been strong except early in the morning when it’s still cool outside. Some fishermen have been finding some good catches of crappie when they are able to go, with most still finding the best catches in the moderate depths of around 15-20 ft. Some catfish action is still going on along the river drops when current is present.
Deer season continues, with Humphreys Co. now at 1,200 deer taken, with the gun season continuing until January 2nd. Nearly all of the other small game seasons are open, including trapping, and the third dove hunt will open this wed, December 8th and will continue until January 15th. Water fowl season had a great opener last weekend, and was closed at sunset this past Sunday night, and re-opening this Saturday.
I did manage to find an update on the fur market last month, and it’s not looking to good. Low prices will be the norm this season for most species. Coyote, mostly western and northern ones are fetching the best prices, with some selling over $70-$100. Most of the top eastern coyotes are going to sell around $25-$45. The raccoon market has too many pelts in supply, with the best quality ones selling for only $10-$15. The best quality beaver will be around $25, but average will be around $10. Beaver castor will be around $100/lb. Otter is around $15-$25, bobcat for top end northern/western spotted cats will be around $100, with lesser quality not selling well. No one seems interested in fox, with most top selling for under $10. Skunks are still selling to the specialty market for around $5.