The day use area on the Forest Service side (east side) of the lake is still open, but typically closes around mid-October. Access from the county side (west side) is open. The concrete boat launch is in the water and launching a boat is achievable. Water clarity is excellent. Only boats with a 10-horsepower motor or less are allowed on Cataract Lake. The limit is 2 bass minimum size 13 inches, the limit is 4 channel catfish. Surface temperature 65.8 F, pH 8.9, D.O. 8.9 on 10/12/2022.