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Iowa Fishing Reports


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  • we are 'the leading edge' HSO Creators

DES MOINES, IA - The weekly Iowa fishing reports from 4/12/13 are gathered from local bait shops, angler creel surveys, and county and state parks staff. They are compiled by lake and species then given a rating as to how good the fishing is on each lake by species. There are always current Iowa Fishing Reports in this forum. Enjoy.

For Current Iowa Fishing reports - Click Here

NORTHWEST IOWA FISHING REPORTS

Beeds Lake

Most of the ice is gone from the silt dam to the causeway. It won't be long before some catfish will be feeding in the shallow open water. When the current opens cuts in the causeway, try for cats, bass and crappies.

Upper Pine Lake

Water temperature is just under 40 degrees; a few northern pike have been caught.

Lake Smith

The ice just went out. Little or no fishing activity.

Humboldt Impoundment

The ice is out.

Rutland Impoundment

Ice is out.

Clear Lake

Lots of rain and wind have melted Clear Lake's ice this past couple of days. A few anglers have already taken boats out on the east end. The water level has come up 8-10 inches with rain and snowmelt.

Lake Cornelia

The lake has open water in spots and will likely be ice free by the weekend.

Little Wall Lake

Little Wall's ice has gone out this past week. Crappie - Excellent: Fishing for Crappie has been excellent on the north end off the lake off the jetty. Most fish are 6-8 inches.

Crystal Lake

Ice is starting to deteriorate on the shoreline. Anglers should use caution if venturing out this weekend. Fishing success at Crystal has been consistent. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills were biting in 15 feet of water. Anglers are still catching 7-9 inch bluegills on spikes. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Largemouth bass and an occasional walleye or northern pike being caught on minnows.

Rice Lake

We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.

Blue Pit

Rainbow trout were stocked on Jan 19.

Iowa River (Iowa Falls to Marshalltown)

Water level in the Iowa River is on the rise from runoff and recent local rains.

There is some activity below Steamboat Rock for walleye and northern pike.

Shell Rock River (above Greene)

The Shell Rock is rising with recent rains. Anglers might try below some of the dams on the Shell Rock for walleye, northern pike, or catfish. Northern Pike - Slow: A few northern pike are being caught with a chub and bobber, or slow artificial presentations. Between Northwood and Nora Springs below dams, backwater areas and anywhere a creek feeds into the river. Walleye - Slow: A few small walleye being caught on jig/twister.

Winnebago River

The Winnebago water level is rising with recent rain. Anglers might have success at some of the dams in Mason City, Fertile, or Forest City. Anglers might have success looking for eddy areas, where the current is slower, and fishing with minnows or cutbait for northern pike, walleye, or catfish. Northern Pike - Slow: Northern pike are being caught in Fertile by the dam and the park point east of the dam. Anglers are using a slow retrieval with Mepps number 4 and 5 spinner baits or a Rapala 3 in Countdown Minnow. Some pike are also hitting chubs presented below bobbers. Channel Catfish - Slow: Anglers might have success fishing with minnows or cutbait for northern pike or catfish.

East Fork Des Moines (Algona to Humboldt)

Walleye - Fair: Anglers are catching a few walleyes on the river on jigs/twister tails.

Ice is out on many of our area lakes. River temperatures are low and levels are up and down with rain and ice melt. Fishing activity has been limited with the variable weather but should be good with a day or two of warmer stable weather.

For ice condition updates and fishing information in the north central area contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517.

Mill Creek (Lake)

Look for some good bluegill, bass, and crappie fishing here this spring and summer. Good numbers of 7-8-inch bluegills and 9-10-inch crappies were caught during surveys last year as well as many bass in the 14-17-inch range.

Big Spirit Lake

Walleye season is closed until May 4. Bullhead - No Report: As the ice continues to go out and the water starts warming, look toward the grade for some early bullhead action. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Best angling during calm sunny days fish shallow rock piles and then work deeper. Crappie - Fair: As the water continues to warm the crappies will move inshore look for them around rock piles and in protected areas.

East Okoboji Lake

Walleye season is closed until May 4. Channel Catfish - No Report: try night fishing with cut bait for some hot early season action.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)

Walleye - Fair: Fishing near the shorelines in the evening with waders or by boat has produced a few walleye since ice out. Try slow presentations such as jig and minnow or slip bobbers but don't overlook twister tails.

West Okoboji Lake

Walleye season is closed until May 4. Once the water starts to warm, look for bluegill and bass to move into the canals.

Five Island Lake

Channel Catfish - No Report: Good numbers channel catfish exist in the lake. Early ice out is an excellent time to catch good numbers from the lake. Try cut bait around structure such as brush piles, points, and drop-offs.

Silver Lake (Palo Alto)

Good numbers of 9-inch bullheads await the serious bullhead angler. Expect the action to pick up as the water warms. There are also good numbers of 8-inch yellow perch and with continued good growth will provide an upswing to the fall 2013 season.

Little Sioux River (state line to Linn Grove)

Walleye - Fair: Try fishing the deeper holes with twister tails and minnows.

West Fork Des Moines (state line to Emmetsburg)

Walleye - Fair: Fishing with either minnows or twister tails has produces a few walleyes in the past week or so.

For more information contact the Spirit Lake Hatchery at 712-336-1840

NORTHEAST

Volga Lake

Ice went out on Volga Lake Wednesday. Bluegill - No Report: Crappie - No Report:

Lake Hendricks

Ice is unsafe to be on and will be out very soon.

Lake Meyer

Lake Meyer still has ice but is unsafe to be on. Water is very dirty. Bluegill - No Report: Largemouth Bass - No Report: Crappie - No Report:

Cedar River (above Nashua)

Anglers are catching a few small northern pike below the St. Ansgar Dam with a chub and bobber. A lone fisherman reported catching his limit of walleye on a green jig head and twister tail tipped with a minnow. The river level is still on the high side and river temperature on the low side. When the river warms up so will the chance of catching more fish.

Decorah District Streams

Recent rains and the last of the snowmelt are still affecting water clarity on many northeast Iowa streams. Last weekend there were magnificent Hendrickson hatches on a number of creeks. Try a #14 Adams, Brown Adams or similar Drake pattern for dry fly fishing. #12 Pheasant tail nymphs and Pheasant Tail Wets also produced excellent trout. Catchable trout streams were not stocked Tuesday or Wednesday this week. Call 563-927-5736 for current stocking information.

Currently, river and stream water levels have crested and most have dropped one foot. Rain is forecast for Sunday. For more on water levels, visit this website http://waterdata.usgs.gov/ia/nwis/rt. Trout streams are being stocked on a stream by stream basis. For more information, call the Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

Casey Lake (aka Hickory Hills Lake)

Anglers have been catching crappie off of structure in Casey Lake. Crappie - Fair: Fish light tackle under a slip bobber near sunken structure for crappie.

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)

The Cedar River is slowly rising with decent clarity. Walleye fishing has been hit or miss but with good reports of smallmouth bass and channel catfish in Bremer County. Channel Catfish - Good: Dead baits have been most effective fished on bottom near backwater areas or off of current breaks. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Lead head jigs tipped with plastics; with or without a minnow is a good combination. Walleye - Fair: Lead head jigs tipped with a minnow is good for walleyes. Cast upstream and bounce off of bottom while retrieving.

Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)

The Shell Rock has risen and is holding steady, walleye fishing should only improve as water levels begin to fall. Walleye - Fair: Lead head jigs tipped with a minnow is good for walleyes. Cast upstream and bounce off of bottom while retrieving.

Wapsi River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)

There have been good reports of anglers catching northern pike on the Upper Wapsipinicon River. The river is up but holding steady in the lower reaches of Buchanan County, walleye fishing should improve as water levels begin to recede. Northern Pike - Good: Floating chubs under a bobber has been really good for northerns. Walleye - Fair: Lead head jigs tipped with a minnow is good for walleyes. Cast upstream and bounce off of bottom while retrieving.

Maquoketa River (above Monticello)

The Maquoketa River has risen over three feet and is holding steady. Angling should improve once again as water levels begin to recede.

Manchester District Streams

Area trout streams are in good shape and trout stockings are back on schedule.

Walleye fishing on the interior rivers has been hit or miss due to weather and water level fluctuations. There have been good reports of smallmouth bass and channel catfish on the Cedar River in Bremer County. Northerns are biting well on the Upper Wapsipinicon River. Manchester District trout streams are back to regular schedule, call the trout stocking recording for additional information 563-927-5736. For more information call the district office in Manchester at 563-927-3276.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9

River level at Lansing is 10.3 feet and predicted to hit 11 feet before leveling off next week. Northern Pike - Fair: Northern have spawned and should get more active feeding on jigs and minnows. Yellow Perch - Fair: Some perch are being picked up in the backwater lakes and along rocks on jigs tipped with worm or minnow. Walleye - Fair: Walleye fishing has picked up during the pre-spawn using jig and minnows.

Mississippi River Pool 10

River level at Lynxville 19.6 feet and predicted to raise another foot this week. Northern Pike - Fair: Northern are actively feeding on jigs with minnow. Yellow Perch - Good: Sauger - Fair: Sauger bite is picking up but many smaller fish reported. Walleye - Good: Some very nice sized walleyes being caught in the tail waters.

Mississippi River Pool 11

Guttenberg tail water level has risen to 11 feet and expected to reach 13 feet next week. Tail water fishing has slowed but fishing away from the dam out of the main current has been excellent. Northern Pike - Fair: Pre-spawn northerns are feeding actively on jigs and minnows. Yellow Perch - Good: Perch are biting along the flooded shorelines and in the trees using jigs tipped with worm or minnows. Sauger - Good: Sauger bite is good. Lots of small fish with some good keepers mixed in. Walleye - Good: Walleye bite has been good with some nice keepers being reported.

Ice has rapidly disappeared this week and recent rains have raised river levels. Water temperature is 41 degrees. River levels will continue to rise slightly this week. The walleye and sauger spawn is beginning and fishing has picked up.

Mississippi River Pool 12

At the Dubuque Lock and Dam the water levels is at 9.6 feet and expected to rise to 11.7 feet by the middle of next week. The railroad bridge is presently at 11.8 feet and expected to rise to 15 feet by next week. Some ramps will experience minor flooding. Northern Pike - No Report: Some pike were being reported at O’Leary’s Lake and in the tail water. Rapidly rising water has hurt angler’s ability to find pike. The northern pike spawn is presently underway. Pike spawn on vegetated areas in the backwaters. High water levels are good for pike spawning efforts. Yellow Perch - No Report: Yellow perch were being caught in tail waters and in O’Leary’s Lake. Rising water levels have hampered any efforts to fish for perch. Yellow perch are expected to spawn in backwater areas in the next few weeks. Sauger - No Report: Saugers were abundant but small in the tail waters this season. High water levels are presently hampering angler’s ability to catch sauger. Sauger will spawn is not yet underway but will be in the next few weeks.

Mississippi River Pool 13

Water Level at Bellevue dam is at 10.8 feet and expected to rise to 12 feet by the middle of next week. The water is muddy. Water temperatures in the channel are around 47 degrees. Many ramps will experience minor flooding at 12 feet. Northern Pike - No Report: Some pike were being reported at in the tail waters and at the mouth of Mill Creek. Rapidly rising water has hurt angler’s ability to find pike. The northern pike spawn is presently underway. Pike spawn on vegetated areas in the backwaters. High water levels are good for pike spawning efforts. Yellow Perch - No Report: Some yellow perch were showing up in the tail waters and the size has been good. Rising water levels have hampered any efforts to fish for perch. Yellow perch are expected to spawn in backwater areas in the next few weeks. Sauger - No Report: Saugers were abundant but small in the tail waters this season. High water levels are presently hampering angler’s ability to catch sauger. Sauger will spawn is not yet underway but will be in the next few weeks. Walleye - No Report: Many nice slot sized walleyes (15 to 20-inch) were caught this spring. With hope these nicer walleyes released, they will make a significant contribution to future walleye populations. Walleye spawn has not started yet but will begin in the next few weeks. Many of the females can now be found in flooded backwater areas warming up, getting ready for their egg lying season.

Mississippi River Pool 14

Water levels at Fulton were at 7.6 feet and rising to 8.5 feet by the middle of next week. The water is muddy and difficult to fish. Northern Pike - No Report: Rapidly rising water has hurt angler’s ability to find pike. The northern pike spawn is presently underway. Pike spawn on vegetated areas in the backwaters. High water levels are good for pike spawning efforts. A few pike were reported in the tail water areas this spring. Bluegill - No Report: Last year was a banner year for bluegills and bass in Pool 14. Look for similar populations of these species this season. Populations are good and with the proper water levels anglers should again see nice fish. Sauger - No Report: Saugers were abundant but small in the tail waters this season. High water levels are presently hampering angler’s ability to catch sauger. Sauger will spawn is not yet underway but will be in the next few weeks.

Mississippi River Pool 15

We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.

Recent rains have hampered angling on the Mississippi River as the water is rapidly rising and getting turbid. Most dams will open roller gates on the river this week, if they have not already done so. This is a reminder that anglers can snag paddlefish through April 15. The season closes on April 16.

Mississippi River Pool 16

River level at Lock and Dam 15 is 11.6 feet and rising. Water temperature is 46 degrees. Channel Catfish - No Report: There are still a lot of dead gizzard shad available from the winter die off catfish should be utilizing this resource but the bait shops are not reporting any recent catches. Walleye - Slow: Walleye fishing has slowed significantly with the rising water levels.

Mississippi River Pool 17

Water level at Lock and Dam 16 is 10.47 feet and rising, water temperature is 49 degrees. We have received no fishing reports for this area

Mississippi River Pool 18

Water level is 12.04 feet and rising at the New Boston Lock and Dam, water temperature is 48 degrees. Water level at Lock and Dam 18 is 7.97 feet and rising and temperature is 49 degrees. Channel Catfish - Good: Catfish are still biting on shad parts in the Burlington area. Crappie - Fair: Crappies are still being caught in the backwater areas and flooded timber. Try using a jig and minnow or small spinner.

Mississippi River Pool 19

Water level is 9.86 feet and rising fast at Lock and Dam 19 temperature is 51 degrees. The stage went up 1.25 feet in the past 24 hours due to local heavy runoff. We have received no fishing reports from this area.

Recent wide spread rainfall has the river rising slightly in all pools in the lower river. This will continue for a few days as water from the north makes its way through the system. The river is below flood stage in all four southern pools. Warming temperature should increase fish activity.

SOUTHEAST

Lake Wapello

Try windy shorelines for channel catfish using cutbait.

Red Haw Lake

There has not been much fishing activity. Try small jigs along the shoreline especially on sunny afternoons.

East Greater Ottumwa Central Park Pond

There were 2,000 trout were stocked on March 30. Use small spinners or prepared trout baits. Don't forget a trout stamp is needed to fish for trout.

Rathbun Reservoir

The lake level is 905.60 feet with 904 feet being normal. The water temperature is 45 degrees. Try using cut bait or shad sides for channel catfish. Target areas with the wind blowing into shore. Keep in mind some of the walleyes in Lake Rathbun have been tagged so if you catch a tagged fish call the hatchery at 641-647-2406 with any information.

For questions regarding fishing in south central Iowa, call the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406.

SOUTHWEST

Big Creek Lake

Due to boat ramp construction, anglers should use the Williams Drive boat ramp. Walleye - Fair: April is the best month to target walleye in Big Creek casting jigs with twisters or minnows, or slow trolling live bait rigs. Good areas to start are the south shoreline of the east boat ramp bay, around the peninsula between the beach and marina, the face of the dam, and the first couple hundred yards of the canal.

Hickory Grove Lake

Crappie - Fair: This time of spring anglers can do well on crappies fishing the shallower upper end near the tubes with small live minnows.

Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake

Rainbow Trout - Fair: Good numbers of trout left from this winter's stocking, as well as previous year's stockings, can be caught in both sections of the lake. Cast flashy inline spinners, small crankbaits, panfish tube jigs or live minnows under a bobber.

Banner Lake (south)

Rainbow Trout - Excellent: Trout were stocked on April 6. They can be caught through May on inline spinners, small crankbaits, and live minnows.

Des Moines River (Stratford to Saylorville Lake)

Walleye - Fair: Anglers fishing below the Boone waterworks and Fraser dams were having fair success on walleye and white bass. The river is currently rising. If the river rises over 2 feet these locations will become more challenging to fish.

Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock)

Crappie - Fair: Anglers targeting walleye with jig presentations below Red Rock are also getting into some crappie. Walleye - Fair: During last weekend’s warm weather, walleye were being caught, especially below the dams. The stretches of river below Saylorville and Red Rock will be best. These stretches are the least impacted by the recent rains. Slowly retrieve jigs tipped with minnows, twister tails, or swim baits.

Boone District Farm Ponds

Crappie - Fair: Farm ponds in central Iowa are producing some fair to good crappie and bluegill fishing. Stick with ice fishing jig and wax worm presentations or small live minnows.

Due to cold and rain central Iowa lakes are receiving very little fishing pressure. More fishing reports will return when better conditions get anglers back out. River fishing conditions have deteriorated some with rain, but should remain fair in the stretches below the reservoirs. For questions on central Iowa lakes and rivers contact Ben Dodd or Andy Otting at 515-432-2823.

Greenfield Lake

Greenfield Lake has a good population of 2 to 3 pound channel catfish. The lake is low so use caution using the boat ramp. Channel Catfish - Fair: Fish shad sides on the shoreline the wind is coming into.

Nodaway Lake

A few crappies are being picked up with minnows. The lake is 5 feet low and the boat ramp is not useable. Bluegill - Slow: A few bluegills can be caught around brush piles using wax worms. Crappie - Fair: Fish minnows or jigs around rock and the corners of the dam on sunny days for best success.

Littlefield Lake

Littlefield is a good lake to target channel catfish after ice out. Channel Catfish - No Report: Shad is the best bait to use after ice out. Catfish average 2 pounds.

Lake Anita

Early season crappie fishing has begun in the pontoon area of the lake. Bluegill - Slow: Small jigs tipped with wax worms are producing 7 to 9-inch fish. Crappie - Good: Fish the pontoon area with minnows under a bobber. Sorting is necessary for 9 to 10-inch fish.

DeSoto Bend

Desoto Bend opens for fishing April 15. The lake has good catfish and crappie populations. Channel Catfish - No Report: Shad sides on the windy shoreline work well this time of the year for channel catfish. Crappie - No Report: Fish shallow areas around structure with minnows.

Lake Manawa

Crappie fishing was good last week in the canals. Wiper fishing has also been good on the main lake. Cool temperatures may slow fishing the first part of this week. Channel Catfish - Slow: Fish the windy shoreline with shad sides for catfish of all sizes. Crappie - Good: Crappies of all sizes were being caught using minnows in the canals. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Wipers are being caught on the south side of the lake using cut bait.

Cold Springs District Farm Ponds

Water temperatures on ponds generally warm sooner than larger water bodies and can provide good early season angling. Remember to always get permission before fishing private farm ponds. Channel Catfish - Good: Channel catfish are being caught using shad sides. Bluegill - Good: Fish small jigs tipped with wax worms in the upper ends of ponds where water temperatures warm quickly. Crappie - Good: Fish minnows under a bobber in 6 to 8 feet of water.

Little River Watershed Lake

The shoreline stabilization and fish habitat work has been completed. The water level is currently 8 feet low and will be allowed to rise and run-off permits. None of the ramps are usable. Most of the fish habitat is partially exposed.

Fogle Lake S.W.A.

The water level lowered last fall to allow boat ramp repairs. Currently the water is 5 feet low but the ramp extension allows easy access.

Sands Timber Lake (Blockton Reservoir)

The lake was drained to allow completion of water quality improvements.

Green Valley Lake

The water level is currently 3 feet low. The main ramp is easy to use. Largemouth Bass - Good: The largemouth bass are hiding in the cedar tree piles. Several can be caught on slow moving worms or jigs.

Summitt Lake

The replacement spillway was completed last July. Very little run-off has reached the lake. Currently the lake is at least 6 feet low and no ramps are usable.

Three Mile Lake

The lake is open and the ramps are easily accessible. The water temp is 41 degrees. Channel Catfish - Fair: A few anglers are trying for early catfish in the shallows near shoreline areas. Shad bait is best.

Twelve Mile Creek Lake

The lake is open and the ramps are accessible. The water temp is 39 degrees. Walleye - Slow: A few walleye can be found on the rock reefs and rock fields.

The ice is gone. Boat access is possible at all lakes. Water levels are usually 15 to 30 inches low but rising slowly. Water temps are near 40 degrees.

Open water fishing has begun in southwest Iowa. Crappie and bluegill fishing was good last week. Cool temperatures may slow the bite for the coming week. For more information call the district office at Cold Springs at 712-769-2587.

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  • we are 'the leading edge' HSO Creators

DES MOINES, IA - The weekly Iowa fishing reports from 4/18/13 are gathered from local bait shops, angler creel surveys, and county and state parks staff. They are compiled by lake and species then given a rating as to how good the fishing is on each lake by species. There are always current Iowa Fishing Reports in this forum. Enjoy.

For Current Iowa Fishing reports - Click Here

NORTHWEST IOWA FISHING REPORTS

Beeds Lake

No reports, yet, but catfish should be feeding in the shallower west end. Try fishing along the causeway when the wind is from the south or southwest. Anglers should also try by the cuts for bass or crappies.

Upper Pine Lake

Water temperature is less than 40 degrees; a few northern pike have been caught.

Lake Smith

Little or no activity due to poor weather.

Clear Lake

Lots of rain and wind have melted Clear Lake's ice this past couple of days. A few anglers have already taken boats out on the east end. The water level has come up 8-10 inches with rain and snowmelt. Channel Catfish - Fair: Fishing for channels should be good on any warm day this week. Try with some cutbait, worms, or stinkbait on a windward shoreline. Walleye - Slow: Some anglers are trying their luck but no reports of success, yet. Unstable weather and cold water is likely keeping the walleye bite slow. Muskellunge - Slow: There is a good population of musky in Clear Lake. The city beach and east shoreline would be a good starting point for anglers wanting to catch an early season musky.

Lake Cornelia

We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.

Little Wall Lake

Crappie - Excellent: Fishing has been excellent on the north end off the lake off the jetty. Most fish are 6-8 inches.

Crystal Lake

Ice is finally out. No reports from open water anglers, yet. Northern Pike - Slow: Anglers may have success using slow presentations such as weedless spoons. Bluegill - Slow: Great population of 7 to 9-inch bluegills.

Rice Lake

We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.

Blue Pit

Rainbow trout were stocked on Jan 19.

Iowa River (Iowa Falls to Marshalltown)

Water level in the Iowa River is on the rise from runoff and recent local rains.

There is some activity below Steamboat Rock for walleye and northern pike.

Shell Rock River (above Greene)

The Shell Rock is rising with recent rains. Anglers might try below some of the dams for walleye, northern pike or catfish. Northern Pike - Slow: A few northern pike are being caught with a chub and bobber, or slow artificial presentations. Between Northwood and Nora Springs below dams, backwater areas and anywhere a creek feeds into the river. Walleye - Slow: A few small walleye being caught on jig/twister.

Winnebago River

The Winnebago water level is rising with recent rain. Anglers might have success at some of the dams in Mason City, Fertile or Forest City. Look for eddy areas, where the current is slower, and fish with minnows or cutbait for northern pike, walleye or catfish. Northern Pike - Slow: Northern Pike are being caught in Fertile by the dam and the park point east of the dam. Anglers are using a slow retrieval with Mepps Number 4 and 5 spinner baits or a Rapala 3-inch Countdown Minnow. Some pike are also hitting chubs presented below bobbers. Channel Catfish - Slow: Anglers might have success fishing with minnows or cutbait for northern pike or catfish.

East Fork Des Moines (Algona to Humboldt)

Walleye - Slow: Anglers are catching a few walleyes on the river on jigs/twister tails.

Ice is out on many of our area lakes. River temperatures are low and levels are up and down with rain and ice melt. Fishing activity has been limited with the variable weather but should be good with a day or two of warmer stable weather.

For ice condition updates and fishing information in the north central area contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517.

NORTHEAST

Volga Lake

Few anglers have been out and those who have report fish activity as slow. Bluegill - No Report: Crappie - No Report:

Lake Hendricks

About half of the lake is still iced over and the water is very turbid.

Lake Meyer

Lake Meyer is still two-thirds covered with ice. Water is very turbid. Bluegill - No Report: Largemouth Bass - No Report: Crappie - No Report:

Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)

For those folks who are waiting for the suckers to run, they'll have to wait a bit longer. They started biting last week but the bite has really slowed with the fluctuating water levels, turbid water and cooler stream temperature.

Yellow River

Nice brown trout were hitting on jigs imitating minnows. Remember to get landowner permission to fish the Yellow River or fish out of a canoe or kayak.

Cedar River (above Nashua)

Anglers are catching a few small northern pike below the St. Ansgar Dam with a chub and bobber. A lone angler reported catching his limit of walleye on a green jig head and twister tail tipped with a minnow. Water levels have dropped about one foot as of April 17. When the river warms up so will the chance of catching more fish. Channel Catfish - Fair: Anglers were catching cats on dead chubs in the impoundment above Nashua dam as the water levels dropped.

Decorah District Streams

Dark Hendrickson, Blue Wing Olive and Baetis hatches continue to be heavy on northeast Iowa streams, particularly those that are running clearer. Good fish have been consistently taken on standard Hendrickson and Blue Wing dry, wet and nymph patterns. Bright Wooly Buggers and streamers have been effective in stained water. Call 563-927-5736 for current stocking information.

As of April 17, river and stream water levels have crested; most have dropped at least 1.5 feet. Rain and cooler temps are forecast for the next few days. For more on water levels, visit this website http://waterdata.usgs.gov/ia/nwis/rt. Trout streams continue to be stocked on a stream by stream basis. For more information, call the Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

Casey Lake (aka Hickory Hills Lake)

Anglers have been catching crappie off of structure. Crappie - Fair: Fish light tackle under a slip bobber near sunken structure.

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)

The Cedar River is slowly rising with decent clarity from recent rainfall events. Walleye fishing has been hit or miss. Some fair reports of channel catfish being caught in Bremer and Black Hawk counties. Channel Catfish - Fair: Dead baits have been most effective fished on bottom near backwater areas or off of current breaks. Walleye - Fair: Lead head jigs tipped with a minnow is good this time of year. Cast upstream and bounce off of bottom while retrieving.

Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)

The Shell Rock has leveled off at 9.5 feet and is holding steady, walleye fishing should only improve as water levels begin to fall. Walleye - Fair: Lead head jigs tipped with a minnow is good this time of year. Cast upstream and bounce off of bottom while retrieving.

Wapsi River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)

The river is currently at 9.2 feet and rising in Buchanan County. Walleye fishing should improve as water levels begin to recede.

Maquoketa River (above Monticello)

The Maquoketa River is currently at 12.5 feet and rising. Fishing will not improve for quite a while until the river drops considerably and water clarity improves.

Manchester District Streams

Area Manchester District trout streams are currently in poor shape. Please be sure to check the stocking recording hot-line telephone number at 563-927-5736 before heading out to area streams.

Walleye fishing on the interior rivers has been hit or miss due to weather and water level fluctuations. There have been good reports of smallmouth bass and channel catfish on the Cedar River in Bremer County. Northerns are biting well on the Upper Wapsipinicon River. Manchester District trout streams are back to regular schedule, call the trout stocking recording at 563-927-5736. For more information call the district office in Manchester at 563-927-3276.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9

River level at Lansing is 22.3 feet and is expected to drop slightly before rising again to 22.8 feet. The boat ramp at New Albin is inaccessible due to high water. Anglers can still access the river at the Village Creek boat ramp in Lansing. High water is making it difficult to find fish. Water temp has fallen to 37 degrees. Yellow Perch - Fair: Some perch are being picked up in the backwater lakes and along rocks on jigs tipped with worm or minnow. Walleye - Fair: Some walleye are still biting but high water is making it hard to find active fish.

Mississippi River Pool 10

River level at Lynxville 15.3 feet and expected to rise into minor flood stage at 17.1 feet over the next week. The boat ramp at Sny Magill is inaccessible due to high water. Anglers can still access the river at the Harpers Ferry high water ramp and at Marquette and Clayton. Yellow Perch - Fair: A few yellow perch being caught near the emergency spillway, out of the current. Sauger - Slow: A few sauger still being caught in the tail waters but high water is making it hard to find active fish. Walleye - Slow: Walleye are spawning but some nice fish are still being caught in the tail waters at Lynxville fishing off to the sides out of current.

Mississippi River Pool 11

Guttenberg tail water level has risen to 14.1 feet and is expected to rise into minor flood stage at 15.2 feet over the next week. The city ramp in Guttenberg is inaccessible due to high water, but the DNR ramp is still open. Yellow Perch - Fair: Perch are biting along the flooded shorelines and in the trees using jigs tipped with worm or minnows. Sauger - Slow: Sauger has slowed but some fish still being caught in the tail waters. High water is making it hard to find active fish. Walleye - Slow: Walleye bite has slowed but some nice fish are still being caught off to the sides out of current.

River levels have risen to near flood stage on the Upper Mississippi and are expected to rise into minor flood stage over the next week. Some boat ramps are inaccessible due to high water. Walleye and sauger are spawning but some good fishing still remains. Water temperature is 41 degrees.

Mississippi River Pool 16

Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 15 in Davenport is 16.43 feet and rising. Flood stage is 15 feet. River stage at Lock and Dam 15 is forecasted to reach 19.6 feet by Sunday. The forecast may change. Fishing has been slow due to the high water conditions. Many of the ramps are not accessible due to the high water. Water clarity is poor and there is a lot of debris floating in the water.

Mississippi River Pool 17

Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine is 15.56 feet and rising. Flood stage is 15 feet. River stage at Lock and Dam 16 is forecasted to reach 20 feet by Sunday. The forecast may change. Many of the ramps are not accessible due to the high water. Water clarity is poor and there is a lot of debris floating in the river. Fishing has been slow due to the high water conditions.

Mississippi River Pool 18

River stage at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston is 16.62 feet and rising. Flood stage is 15 feet. River stage at Lock and Dam 17 is forecasted to reach 21 feet by Sunday. The forecast may change. Many of the ramps are not accessible due to the high water. Water clarity is poor and there is a lot of debris floating in the river. Fishing has been slow due to the high water conditions.

Mississippi River Pool 19

River stage at Lock and Dam 18 above Burlington is 11.99 feet and rising. Flood stage is 10 feet. River stage at Lock and Dam 18 is forecast to reach 17.1 feet on Sunday/Monday. The forecast may change. Many of the ramps are underwater. Water clarity is poor and there is a lot of debris floating in the river. Fishing has been slow due to the high water conditions.

Mississippi River Pools 16-19: River stages throughout Pools 16-19 are above flood stage and forecast to continue to rise over the next couple days. Many of the boat ramps are under water. Water clarity is poor and there is a lot of debris floating in the river. Fishing has been slow due to the high water conditions. Remember to clean, drain, and dry your boat before going to another water body. If you have questions about fishing Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.

SOUTHEAST

Lake Odessa

Major flooding on the Mississippi and Iowa rivers caused by recent heavy rains and snowmelt is forecast to reach levels high enough to overtop the emergency spillway in the Odessa levee and flood the entire Lake Odessa Complex in Louisa County. The current river forecast shows water levels reaching heights similar to the 2011 flood, which was the seventh highest flood on record in the area. The Sand Run, Schafer’s, and Toolesboro accesses will all be inaccessible due to flooding.

Lake Belva Deer

More than seven inches of rain has really put water in the lake. The water is currently to the top of the overflow structure meaning the lake is several feet above the normal pool.

Pollmiller Park Lake

Bluegill - Fair: Anglers have been catching a few bluegills on worm and bobber. Not much fishing going on due to the weather.

Lake of the Hills

REMINDER: Lake of the Hills is the only lake in West Lake Park where the use of live minnows is allowed. Rainbow Trout - Good: Trout are active and are being caught in good numbers. Try minnows or worms. Target areas where water flows into the lake. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers fishing for trout are also picking up a few nice bluegills.

Skunk River (Coppock to Mississippi River)

The Skunk River is at and above flood stage after the recent heavy rains.

Iowa River (Columbus Junction to Mississippi River)

The Iowa is forecast to be at moderate flood stage by this weekend at Wapello.

For more information on the above lakes and rivers call the Lake Darling Fisheries Station at 319-694-2430.

Hannen Lake

We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.

Iowa Lake

We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.

Kent Park Lake

There have been a few fishermen here, but fishing has been very slow and no catches have been reported.

Lake Macbride

As of April 18, the lake is three feet high due to heavy rains. Many jetties and islands are underwater. All boat docks are in and should be usable. Water temps are in the mid 40s. Fishing has been very slow and no reports are available.

Pleasant Creek Lake

There is an 18-inch minimum length limit for largemouth bass and a 40-inch minimum length limit for muskies. Walleye - Fair: A few walleyes are being picked up along the dam at sunset.

Diamond Lake

We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.

Otter Creek Lake

There have only been a few people fishing. No reports available. The fish cleaning station is still closed and the boat dock is not in yet.

Union Grove Lake

We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.

Coralville Reservoir

The lake level is rising 4-5 feet per day and is expected to crest at 694 feet on April 22. Normal water level is 679 feet. The water is very dirty and there is quite a bit of debris floating. No fishing report is available.

Sand Lake

Sand Lake in Marshalltown was stocked with trout on March 29. Rainbow Trout - Fair:

Prairie Park Fishery

Prairie Park Fishery in Cedar Rapids was stocked with trout on April 6. Rainbow Trout - Fair:

Sand Lake

Sand Lake in Iowa City was stocked with trout on April 13. Rainbow Trout - Fair:

For more information, contact the Lake Macbride Fisheries Station at 319-624-3615.

Red Haw Lake

There has not been much fishing activity. Some anglers have been catching a few crappies and bluegills using small jigs.

Lake Sugema

Anglers have been catching crappies and bluegills in 6-8 feet of water. Try jig combos for largemouth bass along the rip-rapped shorelines.

East Greater Ottumwa Central Park Pond

2,000 trout were stocked March 30. Use small spinners or prepared trout baits. Don't forget a trout stamp is needed to fish for trout.

Rathbun Reservoir

The lake level is 907.48 feet with 904 feet being normal. The water temperature is 45 degrees. Try cut bait or shad sides for channel catfish. Target areas with the wind blowing into shore. Don't forget Lake Rathbun contains zebra mussels so make sure to clean, drain, and dry boats before transporting to another water body. Spray boats and trailers with high pressure hot water (above 104 degrees) or let them dry for at least 10 days (5 days in the sun).

For questions regarding fishing in south central Iowa, call the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406.

SOUTHWEST

Big Creek Lake

Due to boat ramp construction, anglers should use the Williams Drive boat ramp. Walleye - Fair: April is the best month to target walleye in Big Creek casting jigs with twisters or minnows, or slow trolling live bait rigs. Good areas to start are the south shoreline of the east boat ramp bay, around the peninsula between the beach and marina, the face of the dam, and the first couple hundred yards of the canal.

Hickory Grove Lake

Crappie - Fair: This time of spring anglers can do well on crappies fishing the shallower upper end near the tubes with small live minnows.

Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake

Rainbow Trout - Fair: Good numbers of trout left from this winter's stocking, as well as previous year's stockings, can be caught in both sections of the lake. Cast flashy inline spinners, small crankbaits, panfish tube jigs or live minnows under a bobber.

Banner Lake (south)

Rainbow Trout - Excellent: Trout were stocked April 6. They can be caught through May on inline spinners, small crankbaits, and live minnows.

Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock)

White Bass - Good: Anglers fishing below Red Rock and between Des Moines and Red Rock have been having decent success on white bass making their spring run, casting jigs with twister tails or swim baits. Crappie - Fair: Anglers fishing below Red Rock that are targeting walleye with jig presentations are also getting into some crappie. Walleye - Fair: During the warm weather over the weekend walleye were being caught, especially below the dams. The stretches of river below Saylorville and Red Rock will be best. These stretches are the least impacted by the recent rains. Slowly retrieve jigs tipped with minnows, twister tails, or swim baits.

Boone District Farm Ponds

Crappie - Fair: Farm ponds in central Iowa that are producing some fair to good crappie and bluegill fishing. Stick with ice fishing jig and wax worm presentations or small live minnows.

For questions on central Iowa lakes and rivers contact Ben Dodd or Andy Otting at 515-432-2823.

Central and southwest Iowa staff is currently in Spirit Lake collecting brood stock walleye. Fishing reports will resume on April 25.

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DES MOINES, IA - The weekly Iowa fishing reports from 4/25/13 are gathered from local bait shops, angler creel surveys, and county and state parks staff. They are compiled by lake and species then given a rating as to how good the fishing is on each lake by species. There are always current Iowa Fishing Reports in this forum. Enjoy.

For Current Iowa Fishing reports - Click Here

NORTHWEST IOWA FISHING REPORTS

Brushy Creek Lake

The docks are in place at the west and south boat ramps.

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)

Water clarity is poor. Water temperature is around 45 degrees. The east boat ramp and marina boat ramp are usable. Avoid the Bel Air boat ramp. Water levels are approximately 2 feet below crest. Channel Catfish - Fair: Walleye - Slow:

Swan Lake

Anglers have started to catch crappie from the piers and fish house. Crappies are around 9 inches. Water levels are approximately 3 to 3.5 feet low.

Black Hawk Lake

Water levels are 24 inches below crest. The fishery in Black Hawk Lake was renovated in fall of 2012 so there are no fish to catch at this time. Bluegills have been restocked and additional species will be stocked over the next several months.

Arrowhead Lake

Anglers are catching a few bluegill and yellow bass in the south end. Water levels are approximately 2 feet low.

Black Hawk Pits

No fishing reports have been received for Black Hawk Pits. However, anglers might try fishing for catfish with cut bait or shad guts.

Little Sioux River (Correctionville to Missouri River)

Little Sioux River is turbid and moving swiftly. Fishing has been difficult.

Beeds Lake

No reports, yet, but catfish should be feeding in the shallower west end. Try fishing along the causeway when the wind is from the south or southwest. Anglers should also try by the cuts for bass or crappies.

Upper Pine Lake

Water temperature is less than 40 degrees on Upper Pine Lake; a few northern pike have been caught. If the fishing is slow, you can watch the amazing variety of birds and wildlife on the lake. One report this past week counts: 300 pelicans, 50 sea gulls, 100 cormorants, 9 snowy egrets, 3 eagles, 1 pair of ospreys and a couple of river otters.

Lake Smith

There has been little or no activity at Smith Lake due to the weather.

Clear Lake

The lake is up about 3-4 inches from last week; about 14 inches below crest. Water temperature is around 40 but will be warming up this weekend. Channel Catfish - Fair: Fishing for channels should be good on any warm day this week. Try some cutbait, worms, or stinkbait on a windward shoreline. Walleye - Slow: Anglers are catching walleyes close to sunset near the outlet. Some reports of boat anglers catching some in the little lake. Most are caught on jig and a minnow retrieved slowly. Muskellunge - Slow: There is a good population of musky in Clear Lake. The city beach and east shoreline would be a good starting point for anglers wanting to catch an early season musky.

Lake Cornelia

Channel Catfish - Slow: Cats should be biting on cutbait or stinkbait on a warmer day.

Little Wall Lake

Crappie - Fair: Crappie (6-8 inches) and bluegills have been hitting on the north end off the jetty.

Crystal Lake

Ice is finally out at Crystal. No reports from open water anglers, yet. Northern Pike - Slow: Anglers may have success using slow presentations such as weedless spoons. Bluegill - Slow: Great population of 7 to 9-inch bluegills in the lake.

Rice Lake

We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.

Blue Pit

Rainbow trout were stocked on Jan 19. Rainbow Trout - Fair: Crappie - Fair: Anglers have caught a few crappies on minnows this week.

Iowa River (Iowa Falls to Marshalltown)

Water level in the Iowa River is on the rise from runoff and recent local rains. There is some activity below Steamboat Rock for walleye and northern pike.

Shell Rock River (above Greene)

The Shell Rock is rising with recent rains. Anglers might try below some of the dams for walleye, northern pike or catfish. Northern Pike - Slow: A few northern pike are being caught with a chub and bobber, or slow artificial presentations. Between Northwood and Nora Springs below dams, backwater areas and anywhere a creek feeds into the river. Walleye - Slow: A few small walleyes are being caught on jig/twister.

Winnebago River

Anglers might have success at some of the dams in Mason City, Fertile, or Forest City. Look for eddy areas, where the current is slower. Northern Pike - Slow: Northern pike are being caught in Fertile by the dam and the park point east of the dam. Anglers are using a slow retrieval with Mepps number 4 and 5 spinner baits or a Rapala three-inch Countdown Minnow. Some pike are also hitting chubs presented below bobbers. Channel Catfish - Slow: Anglers should try below the dams or in backwater areas using cutbait, stinkbait or minnows.

East Fork Des Moines (Algona to Humboldt)

Walleye - Slow: Anglers are catching a few walleyes on the river on jigs/twister tails.

River temperatures are low and levels are up and down with rain and ice melt. The weather looks favorable for the weekend so fishing should pick up. For lake updates and fishing information in the north central area contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517.

Mill Creek (Lake)

Look for some good bluegill, bass and crappie fishing this spring and summer. Good numbers of 7-8 inch bluegills and 9-10 inch crappies were caught during surveys last year as well as many bass in the 14-17 inch range.

Big Spirit Lake

Walleye season is closed until May 4. Bullhead - No Report: As the water starts warming, look toward the grade for some early bullhead action. Smallmouth Bass - Slow: Best angling during calm sunny days fish shallow rock piles and then work deeper. Crappie - Slow: As the water continues to warm the crappies will move inshore look for them around rock piles and in protected areas.

East Okoboji Lake

Walleye season is closed until May 4. Channel Catfish - No Report: East Okoboji has good numbers of channel catfish and soon after ice out is an excellent time to catch good numbers. Try cut bait around structure, like brush piles, points and drop-offs. Crappie - Good: Fishing off the trestle bridge has been good near the pillars with minnows and small jigs. A few bluegills are also being caught in the same manner.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)

Look for walleyes along rocky shorelines and near the inlet and outlet. Try fishing slow with a jig and minnow or twister tail in the evening.

West Okoboji Lake

Walleye season is closed until May 4. Once the water starts to warm, look for bluegills and bass to move into the canals.

Lost Island Lake

Walleye and crappie action has been slow but as the water warms fishing should pick up.

Silver Lake (Palo Alto)

Good numbers of 9-inch bullheads await the serious bullhead angler. Expect the action to pick up as the water warms. There are also good numbers of 8-inch yellow perch and with continued good growth will provide an upswing to the fall 2013 season.

For more information contact the Spirit Lake Hatchery at 712-336-1840.

NORTHEAST

Volga Lake

Few anglers have been out and the ones who have report slow fishing. More fish habitat will be added to the lake on Friday. Try fishing in shallower water as that will be warmer. Bluegill - No Report: Crappie - No Report:

Lake Hendricks

The lake is finally ice-free. Habitat was placed in the lake this week and should provide nice cover for fish. Water temperature is 45 degrees.

Lake Meyer

Lake Meyer is finally ice free. Fish habitat was placed in the lake this week. Fish activity has been slow. Bluegill - No Report: Largemouth Bass - No Report: Crappie - No Report:

Upper Iowa River (above Decorah)

Water levels have stabilized. With warmer weather on its way, fish activity should begin to pick up. Walleye - Slow: Try for walleye just off the current breaks. Since the water is still cold, use a slow retrieve.

Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)

Water levels have stabilized and water is clearing. A few northerns and walleye are starting to bite. Sucker - Fair: The bite is starting to pick up with more stable water. Try using a worm on a hook weighted to bounce along the stream bottom.

Yellow River

Nice brown trout were hitting on jigs imitating minnows. Please remember to get landowner permission to fish the Yellow River or fish out of a canoe or kayak.

Cedar River (above Nashua)

Anglers are catching a few small northern pike below the St. Ansgar Dam with a chub and bobber. A lone fisherman reported catching his limit of walleye on a green jig head and twister tail tipped with a minnow. Water levels have stabilized. Channel Catfish - Fair: Anglers were catching cats on dead chubs in the impoundment above Nashua dam as the water levels dropped.

Decorah District Streams

Dark Hendrickson, Blue Wing Olive and Baetis hatches continue to be heavy on northeast Iowa streams. Good fish have been consistently taken on standard Hendrickson and blue wing dry, wet and nymph patterns. Bright wooly buggers and streamers have been effective in stained water. Call 563-927-5736 for current stocking information.

River and stream water levels have stabilized and dropped to more springtime levels. For more on water levels, visit http://waterdata.usgs.gov/ia/nwis/rt. Water clarity has improved and temperature is rising. All Decorah area trout streams will be stocked this week. It sounds like spring has finally arrived and a great weekend is in store. For more information, call the Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

Casey Lake (aka Hickory Hills Lake)

Anglers have been catching crappie off of structure. Crappie - Fair: Fish light tackle under a slip bobber near sunken structure.

Avenue of the Saints Pond

There have been reports of largemouth bass being caught with some quality sized bass available. Largemouth Bass - Good: Artificial baits have been most productive; spinnerbaits, crankbaits and rattle baits. Keep the retrieve slower this time of year with the cooler water temperatures.

Plainfield Lake

There have been reports of largemouth bass being caught. Largemouth Bass - Good: Artificial baits have been most productive; spinnerbaits, crankbaits and rattle baits. Keep the retrieve slower this time of year with the cooler water temperatures.

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)

The Cedar River is falling and conditions are vastly improving. Walleye and smallmouth bass fishing has improved, with some reports of crappie being caught in the shallow water impoundment areas. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Lead head jigs tipped with plastics or slowly retrieved crankbaits and spinner baits work well with the colder water temperatures. Crappie - Fair: Anglers are using a minnow under a bobber or small jigs fished in shallow water around structure on the impoundment areas. Walleye - Good: Lead head jigs tipped with a minnow is good for walleyes. Cast upstream and bounce off of bottom while retrieving.

Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)

There have been good reports of walleye fishing on the Shell Rock River that should only improve as weather and river level conditions stabilize. Walleye - Fair: Lead head jigs tipped with a minnow is good for walleyes. Cast upstream and bounce off of bottom while retrieving.

Wapsi River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)

The river is currently at 7.16 feet and slowly falling in Buchanan County. Fishing should improve as water levels begin to recede.

Maquoketa River (above Monticello)

The Maquoketa River is currently falling and in really good condition for fishing in Delaware County.

Manchester District Streams

Area Manchester District trout streams are currently in excellent condition.

The weather forecast is setting up for a beautiful weekend of fishing. There have been good reports of smallmouth bass, walleye and crappie on the Cedar River in Bremer County. Walleye are biting well on the Shell Rock River. Smaller Black Hawk and Bremer County lakes are reporting good largemouth bass fishing. Manchester District trout streams are in excellent condition. For more information call the district office in Manchester at 563-927-3276.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9

River level at Lansing is 11.3 feet and is expected to drop slightly before rising again early next week. The boat ramp at New Albin is inaccessible due to high water. Anglers can still access the river at the Village Creek boat ramp in Lansing. High water is making it difficult to find fish but fish are biting in the flooded trees and vegetation. Yellow Perch - Fair: Some perch are being picked up in the backwater lakes and along rocks on jigs tipped with worm or minnow. Walleye - Fair: Some walleye are still biting but high water is making it hard to find active fish.

Mississippi River Pool 10

River level at Lynxville 21.8 feet and expected to remain steady over the next week. The boat ramp at Sny Magill is inaccessible due to high water. Anglers can still access the river at the Harpers Ferry high water ramp and at Marquette and Clayton. Yellow Perch - Fair: A few yellow perch being caught near the emergency spillway, out of the current. Sauger - Slow: A few sauger still being caught in the tail waters but high water is making it hard to find active fish. Walleye - Slow: Walleye are spawning but some nice fish are still being caught in the tail waters at Lynxville fishing off to the sides out of current.

Mississippi River Pool 11

Current level at Guttenberg tail water is 13.5 feet and slowly receding. The city ramp in Guttenberg is inaccessible due to high water, but the DNR ramp is still open. Yellow Perch - Fair: Perch are biting along the flooded shorelines and in the trees using jigs tipped with worm or minnow. Sauger - Slow: Sauger has slowed but some fish are being caught in the tail waters. High water is making it hard to find active fish. Walleye - Slow: Walleye bite has slowed but some nice fish are still being caught off to the sides out of current.

River levels remain at minor flood stage on the Upper Mississippi and are expected fall slowly over the next week. Some boat ramps are inaccessible due to high water. The walleye and sauger are spawning and anglers are having success despite high water. Water temperature is 41 degrees.

Mississippi River Pool 12

Water levels at Dubuque Lock and Dam are at 14.1 feet and at the railroad bridge water levels are at 15.9 feet. Water is slowly dropping. Water clarity is stained. Northern Pike - Fair: Northern pike are done spawning on the Mississippi and are now on an aggressive feeding pattern. Use bright gaudy spinner baits for the best success. Yellow Perch - Fair: Some yellow perch are showing up around O'Leary's Lake. Yellow perch are also mainly done spawning and beginning to aggressively feed.

Mississippi River Pool 13

Water level at Bellevue is 14.5 feet and dropping. Water is stained. Northern Pike - No Report: Pike are done spawning in Pool 13. Recent DNR surveys show a very strong population of northern pike in the pool. Use gaudy spinner baits and target these fish along the channel edge or backwater areas. Sauger - Fair: Even with high water some sauger are being reported near the Bellevue shoreline in the tail waters.

Mississippi River Pool 14

Water level at Fulton is at 14.6 feet and dropping. The water is heavily stained and fishing conditions are not ideal. Very little fishing reported in the Clinton area except in farm ponds. Bluegill - No Report: Last year was a very good year for bluegills on Pool 14 with the hot fishing spots being cattail slough, rock creek and the mouth of Beaver Island. Expect many bluegills again in 2013 as the populations seem to remain strong.

Mississippi River Pool 15

We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.

The Mississippi in Pools 12 to 15 is very high and muddy. Many ramps are under water so call ahead to the DNR or local bait shops if traveling to the River to fish. Water temperature is around 50 degrees.

Mississippi River Pool 16

Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 15 in Davenport is 17.62 feet and falling. Flood stage is 15 feet. Fishing has been slow due to the high water and many ramps are not accessible. Water clarity is poor and there is some debris floating in the water.

Mississippi River Pool 17

Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine is 18.52 feet and falling. Flood stage is 15 feet. Many of the ramps are not accessible due to the high water. Water clarity is poor and there is debris floating in the river. Fishing has been slow due to high water.

Mississippi River Pool 18

River stage at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston is 20.03 feet and falling. Flood stage is 15 feet. Many of the ramps are not accessible due to the high water. Water clarity is poor and there is debris floating in the river. Fishing has been slow due to high water.

Mississippi River Pool 19

River stage at Lock and Dam 18 above Burlington is 16.26 feet and falling. Flood stage is 10 feet. Many ramps are underwater. Water clarity is poor and there is debris floating in the river. Fishing has been slow due to high water. Most of the fishing reports have been from area lakes and farm ponds.

Mississippi River Pools 16-19: River stages throughout Pools 16-19 are still above flood stage. Many boat ramps are not accessible due to high water. Water clarity is poor and there is some debris floating in the river. Fishing has been slow due to the high water. Remember to clean, drain, and dry your boat before going to another water body. If you have questions about fishing Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.

SOUTHEAST

Hannen Lake

We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.

Iowa Lake

We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.

Kent Park Lake

There have been a few fishermen here, but fishing has been very slow and no catches have been reported. Water clarity is poor.

Lake Macbride

The lake has returned to normal level but water clarity is poor (one foot or less of visibility). Water temperature is in the upper 40s. There has been little fishing activity, fishing has been very slow, and no reports are available.

Central Park Lake

There has not been much fishing activity. Water clarity is poor and water temperature is in the upper 40s.

Pleasant Creek Lake

Water clarity is excellent and temperature is in the mid 40s. Remember, largemouth bass must be 18 inches to keep and musky must be 40 inches to keep. Walleye - Fair: A few walleyes are being picked up along the dam at sunset.

Diamond Lake

The lake has muddied and filled up. Remember, no minnows are allowed here. Channel Catfish - Fair: A few fish are being caught on chicken livers. Crappie - Slow:

Otter Creek Lake

There have only been a few people fishing. The fish cleaning station is now operational and the boat dock is in. Bluegill - Slow: Yellow Bass - Slow:

Union Grove Lake

There have not been many people fishing and no reports are available.

Coralville Reservoir

The lake level has crested and is now slowly beginning to fall. The lake level on April 24 is 697.5 feet (normal 679 feet) and dropping less than one foot per day. The water is very dirty and there is some debris floating. There has been very little fishing activity and no fishing reports are available.

Iowa River (Coralville Lake to River Junction)

Outflow from the Coralville dam is at maximum spring allowance of 10,000 cubic feet per second. It will remain at this flow for approximately a week. Fishing in this section of the river will be difficult to impossible.

For more information, contact the Lake Macbride Fisheries Station at 319-624-3615.

Red Haw Lake

Anglers have been catching a few crappies and bluegills using small jigs. The areas along the north shoreline will warm more quickly.

Lake Sugema

Anglers have been catching some crappies and bluegills in 8-10 feet of water. Fish will continue to move shallow as the water temperatures rise.

East Greater Ottumwa Central Park Pond

2,000 trout were stocked March 30. Use small spinners or prepared trout baits. Don't forget a trout stamp is needed to fish for trout.

Rathbun Reservoir

The lake level is 916.84 feet with 904 feet being normal. The water temperature is 46 degrees. Fishing has been slow. Try targeting channel catfish on windblown shorelines. Use cut bait or shad sides. Crappie fishing is still slow as the water is still cool. Don't forget Lake Rathbun contains zebra mussels so make sure to clean, drain, and dry boats before transporting to another water body.

For questions regarding fishing in south central Iowa, call the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406.

SOUTHWEST

Big Creek Lake

Walleye - Fair: April is the best month to target walleye in Big Creek casting jigs with twisters or minnows, or slow trolling live bait rigs. Good areas to start are the south shoreline of the east boat ramp bay, around the peninsula between the beach and marina, the face of the dam, and the first couple hundred yards of the canal.

Hickory Grove Lake

Crappie - Fair: This time of spring anglers can do well on crappies fishing the shallower upper end near the tubes with small live minnows.

Red Rock Reservoir

Crappie - Fair: Early spring crappie fishing is picking up in the marina fishing near the docks and along the riprap in the dredged area using live minnows under a bobber.

Saylorville Reservoir

Crappie - Fair: Now is a good time to target early spring crappies near riprap and the docks in the marina using small tube jigs or live minnows under a bobber. Best access is from a boat, but shore fishing is possible.

Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake

Rainbow Trout - Fair: Good numbers of trout left from this winter's stocking, as well as previous year's stockings, can be caught in both sections of the lake. Cast flashy inline spinners, small crankbaits, panfish tube jigs or live minnows under a bobber.

Banner Lake (south)

Rainbow Trout - Excellent: Trout were stocked April 6. They can be caught through May on inline spinners, small crankbaits, and live minnows.

Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock)

White Bass - Good: Anglers fishing below Red Rock and between Des Moines and Red Rock have been having decent success on white bass making their spring run casting jigs with twister tails or swim baits. Crappie - Fair: Anglers fishing below Red Rock that are targeting walleye with jig presentations are also getting into some crappie. Walleye - Fair: Walleye are being caught, especially below the dams. The stretches of river from below Saylorville, through Des Moines and below Red Rock will be best. Slowly retrieve jigs tipped with minnows, twister tails, or swim baits.

Warming water temperatures are finally on their way. Crappie fishing will be picking up soon. For questions on central Iowa lakes and rivers contact Ben Dodd or Andy Otting at 515-432-2823.

Greenfield Lake

Greenfield Lake has a good channel catfish population with many fish in the 2 to 3 pound range. Crappie fishing should pick up this weekend. The boat ramp is usable. Channel Catfish - Fair: Shad sides fished around the jetties will catch fish in the 2 to 3 pound range. Crappie - Fair: Try minnows under a bobber along the dam and in the upper end of the lake where water warms quickly.

Nodaway Lake

A few crappies are being picked up with minnows. The lake is about full and the boat ramp is useable. Crappie - Fair: Small jigs and minnows are catching crappie around shallow brush piles and along the dam.

Lake Anita

The pontoon area of the lake has been good for crappie on warm sunny days. This weekend will be a good time to fish Anita. Crappie - Good: Fish a minnow two feet under a bobber in the pontoon arm of the lake. Sorting will be necessary for 9 to 10-inch crappie.

Viking Lake

Viking has a good population of crappie. Channel catfish is another species to target. Crappie - Slow: Fish minnows in coves and around structure for crappies up to 10 inches.

DeSoto Bend

Desoto Bend opened for fishing on April 15. The lake has a good catfish and crappie population. Channel Catfish - No Report: Crappie - No Report:

Lake Manawa

Crappie fishing will be good this week in the canals. Manawa has a good channel catfish population which can be caught with shad sides this time of year. Channel Catfish - Fair: Fish the windy shoreline with shad sides for catfish of all sizes. Crappie - Good: Crappies up to 12 inches can be caught with minnows in the canals.

Cold Springs District Farm Ponds

Water temperatures on ponds generally warm sooner than larger water bodies, and can provide good early season angling. Remember to always get permission before fishing private farm ponds. Bluegill - Fair: Wax worms under a bobber is a good presentation now for bluegills. Crappie - Good: Fish minnows and small jigs around structure to catch crappies.

Crappie fishing should pick up with forecasted warm temperatures this week. For more information on lakes in southwest Iowa call the Cold Springs district office at 712-769-2587.

Lake Icaria

The water level is approximately 12 inches low. The ramps are accessible. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are biting on shad bait and crawlers. Walleye - Slow: A few walleyes are being caught from the dam.

Little River Watershed Lake

The lake has filled to within 8 inches of full. All ramps are accessible. All fish have been restocked but their size is small.

Fogle Lake S.W.A.

The water level has risen to within 6 inches of full. Clarity is typical for spring time.

Mt. Ayr Old Reservoir

Water clarity is moderate. Crappie - Fair: A few crappies are being caught from the face of the dam during the evenings.

Sands Timber Lake (Blockton Reservoir)

The lake has been drained to allow completion of shoreline work and a wetland at the upper end.

Green Valley Lake

The water level has risen to within 12 inches of full. Clarity is moderate. All boat ramps are easily accessible.

Summitt Lake

Water levels are rising. Boat access is possible but the area around the ramp will be shallow.

Three Mile Lake

The water level has risen. Boat access is easy. Walleye - Slow: A few walleyes are being caught from the face of the dam and some of the larger points.

Twelve Mile Creek Lake

The water levels have risen and boat access is easy. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Several largemouth bass are hanging around the flooded cedar tree piles and nearby shoreline areas. Crappie - Slow: A few crappies can be caught from the west shoreline and flooded trees. Walleye - Slow: An occasional walleye is being caught from the dam and the old roadway.

Walnut Creek Marsh

The water levels have risen to near full. Boat access is normal.

The water temperatures are in the low 40s. The water levels at most lakes have risen but not overflowed excessively. Water clarity varies with most lakes having 12 to 20 inches.

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