AGFC Millwood Project update

MILLWOOD LAKE – We’re excited to share this update from our ongoing largemouth bass telemetry project at Millwood Lake. All 50 fish that were captured and tagged survived their surgeries and appear healthy (we even had 3 angler recaptures within the first 3 weeks!)

Phase 1 Results – Habitat Preferences:

Habitat breakdown: 72% of tagged fish are using flats, 11% flats on points, 10% river channels, 6% creek channels, and only 2% on points. Fish are usually detected at certain vegetation types, with giant cutgrass and American lotus being the most common hangout locations.

Most bass are homebodies – The majority stay close to where they were originally caught. But some fish are wanderers – several individuals are making impressive long-distance moves, especially fish from the Yarborough study site.

Phase 2 Progress – Tournament Fish Movement:

We have had 13 angler recaptures so far from tournament-caught fish. Amazing dispersal: One fish traveled at least 4 miles from the capture point to the recapture location.

Homing behavior observed: Some fish appear to be showing a “homing instinct” – trying to return to the same area they were caught in the lake after they were released at the tournament boat ramp.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: This 2-year study is still ongoing! If you catch a bass with a wire antenna coming out of its belly, you’ve found one of our study fish! The pink tags in the dorsal fin have faded, so just be on the lookout for that wire antenna.

Please CATCH, PHOTOGRAPH & RELEASE immediately – Do NOT harvest these fish. Project signage is posted at every Millwood access area with more details and contact information.

Your cooperation helps us understand bass movement patterns and habitat use, which will improve fishing for everyone. Please don’t harvest these fish!

Questions? Contact Katie Thomsen at katie.thomsen@agfc.ar.gov or 870-703-5174

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