Norfork Lake is a beautiful, deep-water reservoir, but its personality can change with the water level. Whether you are navigating a boat or hunting for a trophy bass, knowing the current “pool” elevation is the first step in planning your day.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages the lake level. These are the key benchmarks:
Normal Conservation Pool: 553.75 feet (mean sea level). This is considered “full” or normal.
Top of Flood Pool: 580 feet. When the lake reaches this level, it is at its maximum capacity for flood storage.
The Seasonal “Power Pool”: You may notice slight variations throughout the year (often ranging between 552′ and 556′) as the Corps adjusts for seasonal rain expectations.
Before you launch, check the official sources for the most accurate, up-to-the-minute data:
USACE Little Rock District – Norfork Lake Dashboard: The primary source for current elevation, tailwater levels, and dam release data.
Norfork Dam Real-Time Water Data (USACE): A detailed technical breakdown of inflow, outflow, and storage percentages.
Southwestern Power Administration – Generation Schedule: Critical for those fishing the North Fork River below the dam; this tells you when the generators (and the water) will be turned on.
Rising/High Water: When the lake rises into the shoreline brush and trees, the fish follow! Target the “newly flooded” cover with flipping jigs or spinnerbaits. High water often pushes bass and crappie into shallow, thick cover they can’t normally reach.
Falling/Low Water: As the water recedes, fish move out to the first “breakline” or drop-off. Focus on secondary points and the edges of flats where fish wait to transition back to deeper water.
The Summer Thermocline: Regardless of the level, by mid-summer, a thermocline usually forms around 20–30 feet. Most active fish will stay at or above this line where the oxygen is best.
Watch for Submerged Hazards: During high water, “floatsum” (logs and debris) often washes into the lake from the creeks. Keep a sharp eye out and reduce your speed, especially in the arms of the lake.
Ramp Accessibility: At extremely high levels (above 565′), some lower parking lots and courtesy docks may be underwater. Most parks have “high water” ramps, but parking can be tighter.
Bridge Clearances: If the lake is significantly above the 553.75′ mark, be mindful of vertical clearance under the 62/412 Twin Bridges and the Henderson Bridge, especially if you are on a houseboat or a tall pontoon.
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