Howard Prairie is 40 percent full. The resort boat ramp is usable by small boats, but the first 40 yards or so from the ramp is shallow with a lot of weeds. This access is scheduled to remain open through October 31.

An angler caught some 11- to 14-inch trout and a smallmouth bass trolling a red wedding ring spiked with a worm behind a small dodger recently, using two split shots for weight. Another angler caught a couple of trout last weekend fishing PowerBait from shore just north of the dam.

ODFW released over 100,000 fall fingerling rainbow trout at Howard this week. Anglers should handle these 6- to 7-inch fish gently if caught, immediately releasing them unharmed. This fish will be legal-size in 2025. Anglers are reminded to remove all vegetation from gear, boots and boats before leaving Howard Prairie.