Dam History Hub
Flannagan Reservoir Winter Pool Guide
Every fall, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lowers John W. Flannagan Reservoir roughly 25-30 feet below Summer Pool. This "Winter Pool" is not a mistake or a shortage - it is the entire reason the dam exists.
Why USACE Lowers the Lake
Flannagan is a flood-control reservoir. Empty storage in the winter and early spring absorbs storm inflows that would otherwise flood the Pound River, Russell Fork, Levisa Fork, and Big Sandy corridors downstream. The drawdown begins in early-to-mid October, coordinated with the annual whitewater release schedule, and continues into November.
Elevations, Ramps, and What to Expect
Summer Pool is typically held near elevation 1,394 feet. Winter Pool drops roughly 25-30 feet, which exposes wide bands of shoreline and can render some boat ramps unusable. Anglers who know the lake often love winter fishing because bass, walleye, and crappie concentrate in the remaining deep coves and channels.
Seasonal water-level illustration coming soon.
Spring Refill
Spring rain typically refills the reservoir between March and May, subject to USACE guide curves. Boat ramps reopen as elevations recover; USACE Huntington District publishes current lake elevations for planning trips.
Winter Pool FAQ
What is Winter Pool at Flannagan Reservoir?
Winter Pool is the intentionally lowered lake elevation the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers holds from late fall through early spring so the reservoir can absorb winter storms without flooding downstream communities.
When does the drawdown start?
USACE typically begins lowering the reservoir in early-to-mid October, coordinated with the annual whitewater release schedule, and continues drawdown through November.
How much does the lake drop?
Winter Pool sits roughly 25-30 feet below Summer Pool, exposing significant shoreline and closing some boat ramps until spring refill.
When does the lake refill?
Spring rain typically refills the reservoir to Summer Pool between March and May, subject to storm inflows and USACE guide curves.
Are boat ramps closed in winter?
Some ramps become unusable at Winter Pool elevations. Check current ramp status with USACE Huntington District before hauling a boat.
Why lower the lake at all?
Storing empty flood capacity ahead of winter and spring storms is the entire purpose of the project. Every foot of drawdown is a foot of protection for downstream towns.
Does drawdown affect fishing?
Yes. Fish concentrate in remaining deeper channels and coves, which can make winter fishing productive if you know where to look.
Does drawdown affect the tailwater below the dam?
Regulated releases continue year-round; the tailwater at Below the Dam Recreation Area remains fishable and accessible.
Basecamp at Flannagan Lodge
Winter fishing, quiet reservoir mornings, or a fall whitewater weekend - Flannagan Lodge is roughly 3-4 miles from the dam.