Howard Prairie is 89 percent full. The main marina ramp, Willow Point, and Klum Landing are open. The upper reservoir near the horse camp is watering up for the first time in several years, which will mean a temporary jump in reservoir productivity. And the islands will be islands again this year.

Trout fishing should be good this spring. Legal sized trout were stocked a few weeks ago to add to the holdovers. Trout will likely be distributed widely around the filling reservoir, so anglers will have a lot of areas to choose from for fishing. The upper reservoir near the horse camp has provided good early season fly fishing in the past, so this is something to try. Otherwise, trolling lures like wedding rings tipped with bait can be very effective, along with still fishing with bait.

Remember to remove all vegetation from gear, boots and boats before leaving Howard Prairie.