DeGray Lake Fishing Report: Crappie stacking up on brush piles

From the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission

For the most updated lake level at DeGray Lake, click here.

As of Oct. 23, 2025, Randy Plyler with Plyler Outdoors Guide Service  said bass can be caught on shad-colored crankbaits. Fish for them in the creeks from shallow down to about 15 feet. There has been some schooling activity and they can be caught on small lipless chrome or shad-colored baits, topwater and even small buzzbaits. 

Crappie are moving up on brushpiles and can be caught around standing timber on jigs in about 15-25 feet. 

Capt. Darryl Morris of Family Fishing Trips said in early October that he’s been out on lakes Ouachita, Hamilton and DeGray most recently. “The water is cooling and the crappie are starting to stack up on the brushpiles. During this transition period, expect the fish to be a bit scattered. Usually this time of year we find ample crappie 18-20 feet deep. But, this year we are catching them 8-12 feet deep. Early in the morning you can also find bass schooling. Later in the mornings they scatter, and trolling is the most productive. Have fun and be safe.”