Expect snow this weekend. There is packed snow and slick conditions on the Howard Hyatt road, with plows and sanders working; chains are required by law.

There have been patches of ice here and there, but for the most part, Howard Prairie is still very much fishable. Parts of the lake are frozen over, but some open water still exists here. The road to the dam is accessible and the lake levels have risen slightly to make the gravel boat ramp a little easier to launch from. A drift boat pushed off the trailer or small water craft would have no problem. There is ample bank access as well.

Watch this weekend’s weather though. Snow levels should start low later in the week, but then move to 5,000-6,000 feet for the weekend. Fishing for trout with PowerBait off the bottom would probably be the best tactic on the dam side of Buck Island or near the dam itself.

There is a Hwy 66 and Hyatt Lake Rd webcam that may help if you’re planning an adventure up here. We recommend using Dead Indian Memorial Rd. to access Howard Prairie as the road between Hyatt and Howard has much more snow on it. Also, ODOT trip check is worth looking at.

All campgrounds and facilities are currently closed until further notice. More information on facilities can be found on Jackson County Parks website.

The reservoir is hovering at 7 percent full.