Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne is reminding tourists and locals alike that the Toledo Bend Reservoir is still open for fishing and other types of water recreation, despite low water levels. Drought-like conditions have forced closure of many of the reservoir’s boat launches, but dredging and cypress stump removal are easing navigation in the boat lanes. However, boaters should still use extreme caution when accessing and navigating the reservoir at all times.

“Although the access points are limited due to low water levels, once you get in the lake the fishing is spectacular,” Lt. Governor Dardenne said. “Much of the economic well being of this area—hotels, camping, retail, restaurants—is tied to the lake, so it’s important to increase visitation to this area.

Boaters can still launch their watercraft at the following locations on the Louisiana side of the reservoir: Pirate’s Cove (Hornbeck), Circle Drive (Stanley), Buckeye Landing (Many), Cypress Bend Park (Many) and Big Bass Marina (Many). Additionally, Oak Ridge Park (Stanley), Toledo Bend Resort (Anacoco) and Turtle Beach (Many) are open for small boats only. Although the boat launches remain closed at the North Toledo Bend State Park (Zwolle) and South Toledo Bend State Park (Leesville), people wishing to canoe or kayak on the reservoir can launch at these sites.