Clear-Smithport Lake Drawdown Begins Next Monday In DeSoto Parish

Officials will soon pull the plug on another Northwest Louisiana lake in the battle with the seemingly unstoppable, invasive, aquatic weed, Giant Salvinia.

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It was just announced by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries that Clear-Smithport Lake in DeSoto Parish would begin another scheduled drawdown this coming Monday, August 3, 2026.

As LDWF highlights, the lake should dewater at a rate of two to four inches per day, and will be lowered to a maximum drawdown level of approximately four feet below normal pool stage.

Of course, the lake won't be a complete loss to enthusiasts as an estimated 600-700 acres of water will remain in open areas of each lake. Boaters may still access the main waterbody from the 509 Bridge DeSoto Parish Ramp with small craft.

READ MORE: Three North Louisiana Men Face Multi-State Turkey Hunting Violations

The coming drawdown of Clear-Smithport Lake comes on the heels of the July 13, commencement of the drawdown of the popular Saline Lake in Natchitoches and Winn Parishes. Of course, many are anticipating an announcement from LDWF of the annual drawdown of Lake Bistineau and expect that within the next few weeks.

While no surprise to local anglers who battle through months of lowered levels on area lakes during annual drawdowns, many question the overall fruits of these battles.

Many wonder if these drawdowns will continue infinitely into the future or if there might be another way to combat Salvinia. At least for now, it appears this is the plan, and we should just prepare for the drawdowns about this time each year.