The storyline arising from the Costa FLW Series Central Division opener on Lake Dardanelle might very well be one of perseverance. For starters, a wall of thunderstorms swept across the area within 30 minutes of takeoff. Anglers, no doubt, sought shelter as best they could during the rough stuff.

Once the skies cleared, sunny, still conditions overtook the lake. That’s better than lightning, but not always best for fishing.

Old Spice pro Greg Bohannan had his limit by about 10:30, but most we spoke to lamented a slow morning. Of those who reported fish, several had found quality; but limits were scarce.

We saw some cranking riprap early, but the majority of anglers we encountered in the Illinois Bayou and nearby main lake pockets were flipping, pitching and worming.

Right after takeoff, pro Ron Cherkas and co-angler Chris Williams parked on a storm water outflow boiling from under Highway 326. A mix of jigs, crankbaits and Zoom Speed Worms got their day going with a few keepers.

Others later migrated the same spot, where some fished close to the source of the upwelling, while others worked the outer end of the plume.

Pre-tournament reports indicated a better afternoon bite. With a little breeze beginning to blow around noon, it’s likely some might find the fish more interested in moving baits as the day progresses.

Day 1 LIVE Weigh-in starts at 3 p.m.