The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is advising Wham Brake waterfowl hunters that construction will begin on the water control structures in September, delaying collection of rainfall to refill the reservoir until November.
As such, water levels may not be favorable for the September teal season, scheduled statewide for September 12 - 27. LDWF will be working with the contractor to ensure the project is completed as soon as possible in order to catch rainfall for the regular fall waterfowl season, scheduled to open November 21 (East Zone).
The water control structure work must be completed prior to the main weir replacement that is scheduled for 2016. These structures are situated in the lowest points in the impoundment and current conditions are favorable for their replacement.
Additional waterfowl opportunities, including for the early September teal season, are available on the southern portion of Russell Sage WMA (formerly Ouachita WMA) and on Boeuf WMA.
Russell Sage Wildlife Management Area includes acreage in Caldwell, Morehouse, Ouachita and Richland Parishes, and is located approximately seven miles east of Monroe and ten miles west of Rayville. Access is provided via U.S. Highway 80, U.S. Highway 165, LA Highway 15 and Interstate 20.
For more information, contact Lowery Moak, lmoak@wlf.la.gov or 318-343-4044 or Steve Smith, ssmith@wlf.la.gov or 318-487-5885.