Lake Ann is a small, shallow reservoir in southeastern Arkansas with reliable largemouth bass and catfish populations
Lake Ann sits in Drew County near Monticello, covering roughly 650 acres with an average depth of 8 to 10 feet. The lake formed behind a dam on a tributary system, creating a warm-water fishery that holds largemouth bass year-round, channel catfish in summer and fall, and occasional crappie in spring. The shallow depth means water temperature swings sharply with the seasons — a factor that shapes when and where fish bite.
The lake draws local anglers and day-trippers from within an hour's drive rather than becoming a destination for out-of-state travel. That means less crowding than larger reservoirs, but also fewer services on the water itself. Public access is limited to one main launch point, and facilities are basic. If you are planning a trip, expect a quiet morning or afternoon rather than a full-day outing with amenities.
Key Takeaways
- Lake Ann's shallow depth and warm water make it best for largemouth bass in spring and fall, when fish move into predictable depths.
- The only public boat launch is at the Lake Ann Wildlife Area on the north shore, which requires an Arkansas fishing license and has no fuel or food vendors.
- Bank fishing is possible along the dam and at scattered access points, but most productive spots require a boat.
- Channel catfish bite reliably from June through September using chicken liver, cut shad, or prepared stink baits.
- Arkansas fishing regulations apply — check current creel limits and season dates before you fish, as they change annually.
When to fish Lake Ann for bass and catfish
Largemouth bass bite best in spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) when water temperatures sit between 60 and 75 degrees. During these windows, bass move into shallow cover — fallen timber, grass beds, and the dam structure — making them catchable from the bank or shallow-draft boats. Early morning and late afternoon produce more strikes than midday.
Summer (June through August) can be productive for catfish but tough for bass. Water temperatures climb above 85 degrees, pushing bass into deeper channels and the thermocline where they are harder to reach. Channel catfish, by contrast, feed aggressively in warm water and bite throughout the night. If you target catfish in summer, plan an evening or night trip with prepared baits or fresh-cut shad.
Winter (December through February) slows the bite significantly. Bass move to the deepest holes near the dam, and catfish become less active. Bank fishing is possible but requires patience and knowledge of winter structure. Most anglers skip Lake Ann in winter and fish larger reservoirs with better winter populations.
How to reach Lake Ann and where to launch
Lake Ann is located 8 miles south of Monticello, Arkansas. From Monticello, take Arkansas Highway 35 south for approximately 6 miles, then follow local roads east toward the lake. GPS coordinates for the main launch are approximately 33.62°N, 91.77°W. The drive from Little Rock is roughly 90 minutes; from Memphis, about 2 hours.
The Lake Ann Wildlife Area operates the only public boat launch on the north shore. The ramp is a single-lane concrete structure suitable for small to medium boats. There is no fuel dock, no restaurant, and no tackle shop at the lake — bring everything you need. A parking area holds roughly 15 to 20 vehicles. The launch is open during daylight hours; check with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission for seasonal closures or maintenance work.
Bank fishing is possible along the dam and at a few scattered access points, but these spots are limited and often crowded on weekends. If you do not have a boat, ask at the launch or contact the Game and Fish Commission office in Monticello for current bank-fishing locations.
What fish live in Lake Ann and what they eat
Largemouth bass are the primary target. They range from 1 to 4 pounds on average, with occasional fish exceeding 5 pounds. Bass respond to topwater lures, soft plastics, and crankbaits in shallow water. Spinnerbaits and jigs work well around fallen timber and the dam structure. Live shiners and crawfish are effective natural baits, though artificial lures produce more consistent results.
Channel catfish are abundant and reliable. They run 2 to 8 pounds typically and bite on chicken liver, cut shad, prepared stink baits, and live bluegill. Catfish feed on the bottom, so use a simple three-way rig or slip sinker with a circle hook. Fish the deeper channels and holes, especially at night or in early morning.
Crappie appear in spring around brush piles and submerged timber but are not the lake's main draw. Bluegill and other panfish are present but small. Most anglers focus on bass and catfish and ignore the crappie bite unless they specifically target them in March and April.
Regulations, licenses, and what to bring
You must have a valid Arkansas fishing license to fish Lake Ann. Licenses are sold online through the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission website, at sporting goods stores, and at some convenience stores near the lake. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you are visiting for a single trip.
Creel limits and season dates change annually. As of recent years, largemouth bass have a daily limit of five fish with a 12-inch minimum length, but verify the current regulations on the Game and Fish Commission website before you fish. Catfish have no closed season and typically no creel limit, but confirm this as well. Possession limits differ from daily limits — you cannot keep more than the daily limit even if you fish multiple days.
Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water. The lake sits in a warm, humid region, and mosquitoes are active in summer and early fall. A basic first-aid kit is wise. If you are launching a boat, check the ramp condition and water level before backing down — shallow ramps can be difficult in low-water years.
Lodging and nearby services
Monticello, 8 miles north, has motels, restaurants, and a grocery store. The town is small but has the basics for an overnight trip. Camping is not available directly at Lake Ann, but the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission operates several campgrounds at other lakes within 30 to 45 minutes' drive — check their website for options.
If you plan to fish early morning, consider staying in Monticello the night before rather than driving from a distant city. This gives you a 6:00 a.m. launch time instead of a 7:30 or 8:00 a.m. arrival. The difference matters for bass fishing, especially in spring and fall when the bite is strongest in the first two hours after sunrise.
Why Lake Ann works for local anglers but not long-distance travel
Lake Ann is a solid choice if you live within an hour of Monticello and want a quiet morning on the water without a long drive. The bass and catfish populations are stable, the lake is rarely crowded, and the shallow depth makes structure easy to locate. For a weekend day trip from central Arkansas, it is a reasonable option.
For out-of-state visitors or anglers traveling more than two hours, larger reservoirs like Lake Chicot, Millwood Lake, or Greers Ferry Lake offer more fish, better facilities, and more lodging options. Lake Ann lacks the infrastructure and fish density to justify a destination trip. Use it as a local resource, not a planned vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a boat to fish Lake Ann?
No, but a boat reaches more productive water. Bank fishing is possible along the dam and at a few access points, but these spots are limited and often crowded. Most anglers with boats catch more fish because they can reach deeper channels and scattered cover away from the shore.
What is the best time of day to fish Lake Ann?
Early morning (sunrise to 9:00 a.m.) and late afternoon (4:00 p.m. to sunset) produce the most strikes for bass. Catfish bite throughout the night and into early morning. Midday is typically slow for bass but can work for catfish if you fish deep structure.
Can I fish Lake Ann in winter?
Yes, but the bite is slow. Bass move deep, and catfish become less active in cold water. Winter fishing requires patience and knowledge of deep structure near the dam. Most anglers fish other lakes during winter months.
Where can I buy bait and tackle near Lake Ann?
Monticello has sporting goods stores and some convenience stores that carry basic tackle and live bait. There are no shops at the lake itself, so buy what you need before you arrive. If you are staying overnight, ask at your motel for recommendations.
What is the water level like at Lake Ann?
Water level varies seasonally and by rainfall. Spring is typically the highest; late summer and fall can be lower. Check the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission website or call the Monticello office before you launch to confirm the ramp is usable, especially if you have a larger boat.