Howard Prairie is 40 percent full. The reservoir level is about 3 feet higher than it was at this point last year, and the boat ramp at the marina is still open.

Fishing was slow in the warm weather early this week but should improve with cooler conditions. 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.

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 on Tuesday, using two split shots for weight.

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.