I have also fished Conway for many years and have never agreed with the way they drain the lake. They say they drain it for the property owners to clean out, but most of us know, alot of those guys are not "avid" fishermen. They have the house on the lake for a status they like to have and that's about it.
Just so I don't offend anyone, I am referring to "most" property owners and not all.
If they really want to clean the silt out of Conway, it will take the AG&F to get involved heavily through the preparation, operation and reconstruction of the lake and its fish.
Without their help, I am afraid it will be a futile effort. And it is a shame too, because in the early years, Conway offered some of the best Crappie fishing around. But I have to agree with you since the last drawdown, it has never really returned.
Just my thoughts.........:o