Iowa Fishing Reports

[Rick]

NORTHWEST

Black Hawk Lake
Water temperatures are in the mid-60's. Water level is about 12 inches over the crest of the spillway. Anglers are picking up fish in between rain events. Bluegill - Fair: Use crawlers fished under a bobber. Most action has been in Town Bay off the stone piers, the floating dock, and the fish house. Walleye - Fair: Use a slip bobber with a minnow or leech on a lead head jig along the Ice House Point shore, the east end near the outlet rock piles off Cottonwood Point and the east basin north shore and around the marina. Anglers have also had luck casting black and white twisters. Black Crappie - Fair: Anglers are picking up crappie from shore and the fish house in Town Bay using live minnows fished under a bobber. Target areas with wood or rock cover along shore. Muskellunge – Fair. 

Black Hawk Pits
Black Crappie - Fair: Use a live minnow under a bobber near wood and rock cover along shore. Bluegill – Fair.

Brushy Creek Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Try a live minnow under a bobber along shore near wood and rock cover. Bluegill - Fair: Use crawlers and small minnows fished under a bobber in 5-10 feet of water near shore and submerged structure. Yellow Perch – Fair.

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Black Crappie - Fair: Try a live minnow under a bobber in areas around docks and along shallow rocky shores.  Anglers have picked up crappie in the marina and near the inlet. White Bass - Good: Use leeches, crawlers and twisters. Walleye - Fair: Try leeches and minnows fished under a slip bobber or cast twisters or crankbaits near shore and in the dredge cuts. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try cut bait, stink bait, minnows or leeches fished near the bottom.

Water temperatures are in the mid-60's. Water levels on most lakes and rivers are above average. For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Clear Lake
The water temperature is in the low 60's. Walleye - Fair: Anglers are having success slip bobber fishing the rock reefs with jigs and a minnow or leech. With the clear water, the best bite is early morning and evening. Black Crappie - Fair: Fish the edge of the rushes with a small minnow. Yellow Bass - Slow: Use small jigs in 2 to 3 feet of water on warmer days. Best bite is at first light. Channel Catfish - Good: Fish the windswept shore and areas where water is coming into the lake with cut bait fished on the bottom.

Crystal Lake
Black Crappie - Good: Use minnows fished on the edge of the vegetation. Largemouth Bass - Good: Try spinnerbaits fished on the edge of the vegetation. Walleye - Fair: Use minnows and leeches fishes near the dredge cut. Bluegill - Good: Try a small piece of crawler fished in 2 to 3 feet of water. 

Lake Smith
Anglers are catching bass on a variety of baits. Largemouth Bass – Good.

Silver Lake (Worth)
Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass are biting on a variety of baits. Bluegill - Good: Use a small piece of crawler fished under a bobber in 2 to 3 feet of water.

For information on the lakes and rivers in the north central area, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

Center Lake
Black Crappie - Good: Fish shoreline habitat as the fish are shallow. Cast a mini jig or use a minnow under a bobber.

East Okoboji Lake
Walleye - Good: Anglers report angler acceptable size fish are being caught after dark trolling crankbaits. Bluegill - Good: Fish have moved shallow; fish deeper wooden docks for the best action.

Lost Island Lake
Walleye - Fair: Report of 14 – 18 inch fish being caught. Expect the action to improve as the water temperature warms. Black Crappie - Fair: Report of black crappie and bluegill being caught in shallow water.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
Walleye - Good: Wader fishing is at its prime after dark with the clear water. Fish slow with a jig and minnow or twister tails on light jig heads. Yellow Perch - Slow: Recent surveys show good numbers of fish approaching 11 inches.

Silver Lake (Palo Alto)
Black Bullhead - Good: Good bite with jumbo size fish reported being caught.

Spirit Lake
Walleye - Good: Report of walleye fishing improving with fish caught throughout the day. Use leeches and slip bobbers in shallow, emerging weed beds. Black Crappie - Fish Trickles Slough or emerging reed beds for crappie and bluegill. Black Bullhead - Good: Action is picking up at the north grade using the traditional worm fished on the bottom.

Trumbull Lake
Yellow Perch - Fair: Report of some fish being caught.

West Okoboji Lake
Bluegill - Fair: Some bluegill and crappie action has been reported. Expect the action to improve as water temperatures warm.

For more information throughout the week, contact the Spirit Lake Fish Hatchery at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Water levels are stabilizing, but remain elevated with high flows. Water clarity is poor. Water temperatures are in the mid-50's. Use caution when boating in higher flows. Visit the USGS Current Conditions website for more on water levels. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use dead chubs fished in the impoundments or shallow slack water areas. Keep your bait on the river bottom. Walleye - Fair: Try a jig tipped with a minnow or ring worms. Smallmouth Bass - Slow: Crankbaits will tempt a smallie.

Decorah District Streams
Water clarity varies by stream, but most can be fished. Fishing is the only activity allowed on private property open to fishing; all other activities are prohibited. Check the 2019 trout stream stocking calendar  or call the stocking number at 563-927- 5736 to find out when your favorite trout stream will be stocked. Brown Trout - Good: Off-color water from rains drive brown trout crazy. A spinnerbait or subsurface nymph work well. Rainbow Trout - Good: Use cheese or a piece of worm under a bobber for best luck with a spinning rod. Brook Trout - Good: A variety of insects are hatching throughout the day. Matching the hatch is key. On clear streams, use care not to be seen.

Lake Hendricks
The lake is up about a foot with about 3 feet visibility. Water temperatures are in the upper 50's. Fish shallow bays and along rocky shores later in the day and early morning. Black Crappie - Good: Use a hook tipped with a minnow under a bobber near brush piles. Bluegill - Fair: Try a small hook tipped with a a left over waxworm or spike under a bobber. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass are on beds. Use jigs tipped with plastic twister tails or jerkbait. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try a jig tipped with a piece of worm or cheese around the rocky shores with wind-blown material. 

Lake Meyer
Water temperatures cooled this week with temperatures in the upper 50's. Conditions should improve with warmer temperatures and sunshine. Lake levels are up and clarity is fair. Bluegill - Fair: Use small jigs tipped with a small piece of worm around rocky shores. Black Crappie - Good: Try small plastic lures or hair jigs fished around shallow submersed logs. Largemouth Bass - Good: Crankbaits or jerkbaits work well. Northern Pike - Fair: Find pike in shallow bays. Try crankbaits, spoons or a hook tipped with cut bait.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Water levels are falling, but remain elevated with high current. Water temperatures are in the mid-50's with poor water quality.Paddling is not recommended. Walleye - Fair: Use a jig tipped with a minnow or shallow water crankbait in the slack water and eddies below dams. White Sucker - Fair: Try a worm fished off the bottom. Water temperatures in the 50’s turns on the suckers.

Upper Iowa River (above Decorah)
Water levels are falling, but remain up about 1 feet and dirty. Flows are high. Paddling is not recommended. Water temperatures are in the mid-50's. Visit the USGS Current Conditions website for more on water levels. Smallmouth Bass - Slow: Smallmouth bass are spawning. When the water clears, bass can be seen guarding nests.

Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)
Water levels are falling, but remain up about 2 feet with high flows. Clarity is poor. Paddling is not recommended. Water temperatures are in the mid-50's. Smallmouth Bass - Slow. Walleye - Slow: A variety of lures work for walleye. Fish the slack water and eddies below dams and off channel areas. Golden Redhorse - Good: Redhorse are hitting worms fished on the bottom. Use just enough weight to keep the bait down, but you can still feel the strike.

Volga Lake
Water temperatures are in the upper 50s with about 3 feet clarity. Concentrate efforts along rocky shores and shallow warmer water. Bluegill - Fair: Shallow bays and rocky areas are holding bluegills. Black Crappie - Good: Try a hook tipped with a minnow under a bobber or tube jig in deeper water out from shallow rocks. Largemouth Bass - Good: Crankbaits and spinnerbaits fished in shallow bays will hook a bass. Bass are on spawning beds.

Yellow River
The Yellow River is up about a foot with high current and muddy. Paddling is not recommended. Fishing the Yellow River by canoe or kayak is the only legal way to fish without landowner permission. Brown Trout - Slow: Use a spinnerbait or crankbait fished in the slack water eddies and limestone ledges.

Chance of rain through the weekend. Otherwise, spring-like weather for the weekend with temperatures ranging from low 80's to low 50's. Recent rainfall over saturated ground caused rivers and streams to rise and turn muddy. Most have crested but remain dirty. Trout streams are clearing fairly fast and should be ready to fish by the weekend. For current fishing information, please call the Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.
 

Casey Lake (aka Hickory Hills Lake)
Bluegill - Excellent: Bluegill have moved in shallow for spawning. Try a piece of worm under a slip bobber or cast and retrieving a 1/16 oz. jig. Fly rods also work well during spawn. Channel Catfish - Good: Catfish fishing is good throughout the day and excellent after sunset. Use livers, cut baits or stink bait fished on the bottom. Black Crappie - Good: Try a crappie minnow under a slip bobber off of structure for quality 10-12 inch crappie.

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
The Cedar River remains high and turbid; no reports at this time.Walleye - Slow. Smallmouth Bass - Slow. Channel Catfish - Fair.

Maquoketa River (above Monticello)
The Maquoketa remains high, but is dropping. Fishing should improve by the upcoming weekend, if the rain holds off. Smallmouth Bass – Fair. Walleye – Slow.

Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)|
The Shell Rock River remains high and turbid; no reports at this time. Channel Catfish – Slow. Smallmouth Bass – Slow. Walleye – Slow.

Wapsipinicon River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)
The Wapsipinicon River remains high and turbid; no reports at this time.

The spring, early summer weather has not been ideal fishing conditions. Interior rivers remain high and turbid. Lakes are producing area catches of bluegill, crappie and largemouth bass. Trout streams are in good to excellent conditions. Call the N.E. Iowa district office at 563-927-3276 for more information.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9
River level has risen to 16 feet at Lansing is predicted to remain there this week. Water temperature is 61 degrees.Yellow Perch - Fair: Try light tackle tipped with minnows fished near shore along marina areas. Largemouth Bass - Good: Use weedless artificial baits in the flooded shorelines in areas out of the current. Sauger - Fair: Use small jigs tipped with minnows close to shore in flooded areas. Walleye - Fair: Fish with three-way rigs tipped with a minnow below the dam. Black Crappie - Fair: Use light tackle fished in the flooded trees. Bluegill - Good: The bluegill bite has picked up. Use light tackle tipped with a small piece of worm in areas away from current. Northern Pike - Good: Try artificial baits attached to a leader in backwaters with clearer water. Flathead Catfish - Good: Flathead catfish are feeding just before the spawn. Try golden shiners or small bluegill on heavy tackle in deep channel areas. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use crawlers or cut bait fished on the bottom along main channel borders. 

Mississippi River Pool 10
River level is has risen to 26.2 feet at Lynxville with a slight rise before leveling off this week. Sny Magill ramp is still closed. Water temperature is 62 degrees. Yellow Perch - Fair: Try light tackle tipped with minnows fished near shore along marina areas. Largemouth Bass - Good: Use weedless artificial baits in the flooded shorelines in areas out of the current. Sauger - Fair: Use small jigs tipped with minnows close to shore in flooded areas. Walleye - Good: Fish with three-way rigs tipped with a minnow or a hair jig in side channels. Bluegill - Good: The bluegill bite has picked up. Use light tackle tipped with a small piece of worm in areas away from current. Northern Pike - Good: Try artificial baits attached to a leader in backwaters with clearer water. Flathead Catfish - Good: Flathead catfish are feeding just before the spawn. Try golden shiners or small bluegill on heavy tackle in deep channel areas. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use crawlers or cut bait fished on the bottom along main channel borders. 

Mississippi River Pool 11
River level has risen to 17.4 feet at Guttenberg and is expected to remain at this level for some time. Water temperature is 58 degrees. City ramp and Mud Lake and Finley ramps are still closed. Yellow Perch - Fair: Try light tackle tipped with minnows fished near shore along marina areas. Largemouth Bass - Good: Use weedless artificial baits in the flooded shorelines in areas out of the current. Sauger - Fair: Use small jigs tipped with minnows close to shore in flooded areas. Walleye - Good: Fish with three-way rigs tipped with a minnow or a hair jig in side channels. Bluegill - Good: The bluegill bite has picked up. Use light tackle tipped with a small piece of worm in areas away from current. Northern Pike - Fair: Try artificial baits attached to a leader in backwaters with clearer water. Flathead Catfish - Good: Flathead catfish are feeding just before the spawn. Try golden shiners or small bluegill on heavy tackle in deep channel areas. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use crawlers or cut bait fished on the bottom along main channel borders. 

Upper Mississippi River levels will rise slightly before cresting this week due to recent heavy rainfall. Levels will remain high throughout the week. Many boat ramps are still under water and covered in flood debris. Boaters should operate at no wake speed to reduce damage to shorelines and flooded structures. Fishing has picked up this week with warmer water temperatures. Water clarity is reduced. Water temperature is near 61 degrees.

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
Water levels are expected to crest before leveling off this week. Levels are 18.8 feet at the Dubuque Lock and Dam and 20.4 feet at the RR bridge. Water clarity is fair. The water temperature is 64 degrees. Many boat ramps still have flood debris on them. Northern Pike - Fair: Some northern pike are being caught on flashy lures along the flooded shoreline edges. Common Carp - Good: Shallow flooded areas with lots of sun is a recipe for bowfishing carp. Please do not dispose of the carp on the bank. Channel Catfish - Good: Channel catfish bite is best in flooded conditions. Fish near bank with stink bait or worms.

Mississippi River Pool 13
Water level is rising and is 18.3 feet at Lock and Dam 12 and predicted to crest this week, but will remain high. Water clarity is fair. The water temperature is 64 degrees. Most boat ramps are closed or have debris on them, but the Bellevue City Ramp is back open. Northern Pike - Good: Northerns are biting on flashy lures fished along the shoreline edges. Common Carp - Good: Shallow flooded areas with lots of sun is a recipe for bowfishing carp. Please do not dispose of the carp on the bank. Largemouth Bass - Good: Deep clear flooded areas like Spring Lake have been good. Green Island wildlife area might also hold some bass this year. Walleye - Good: Even in flooded conditions, some walleye are being caught.

Mississippi River Pool 14
Water levels are rising and are near 18.4 feet at Fulton Lock and Dam, 19.8 feet at Camanche and 13.5 feet at LeClaire. Levels are predicted to rise about a foot before leveling off. Water clarity is fair. The water temperature is around 64 degrees. Many boat ramps will have flood debris on them. Common Carp - Good: Shallow flooded areas with lots of sun is a recipe for bowfishing carp. Please do not dispose of the carp on the bank.

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water levels are rising and are near 19.6 feet at Rock Island. Water clarity is fair. The water temperature is around 64 degrees. Boat ramps are flooded or will have debris on them. Common Carp - Good: Shallow flooded areas with lots of sun is a recipe for bowfishing carp. Please do not dispose of the carp on the bank.

Some flooding is still occurring throughout the district; many boat ramps are closed or will have debris on them. Water levels are predicted to rise again before cresting this week. Levels will remain high this week. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-872-4976.

 

Mississippi River Pool 16
Tailwater stage is 20.02 feet at Lock and Dam 15 in Davenport and forecast to reach 21 feet over the weekend. Flood stage is 15 feet at Davenport. River stage is 21.04 feet at Fairport and flood stage is 14 feet. The Marquette St. boat ramp in Davenport is closed. Clark's Ferry, Shady Creek, and the Fairport Recreational Area boat ramps are under water.

Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage is 20.71 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine and forecast to reach 22.2 feet over the weekend. Flood stage is 15 feet. River stage is 22.50 feet at Muscatine and flood stage is 16 feet. The ramps at Muscatine are closed due to high water. Kilpeck and Big Timber boat ramps are also closed. We have not received any fishing report information for this pool due to the high water.

Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage is 22.38 feet at Lock and Dam 17 above New Boston and forecast to reach 23.4 feet over the weekend. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 17. River stage is 21.02 feet at Keithsburg and flood stage is 14 feet. The Toolsboro landing is closed due to high water. The hawkeye dolbee access is also under water. We have not received any fishing report information for this pool this week due to the high water.

Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage is 18.8 feet at Lock and Dam 18 above Burlington and forecast to reach 19.5 feet over the weekend. Flood stage is 10 feet at Lock and Dam 18. River stage is 23.04 feet at Burlington and flood stage is 15 feet. River stage at Fort Madison is 533.24 feet and flood stage is 528 feet. Many of the boat ramps are closed due to flooding. We have not received any fishing report information for this pool this week due to the high water conditions.

Mississippi River Pools 16-19 have been on the rise. River levels are above major flood stage. Many of the boat ramps are closed due to flooding. Main channel water clarity is poor. We have not received any fishing report information this week due to the high water conditions. If you have questions on fishing Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.

 

SOUTHEAST

Iowa River (Columbus Junction to Mississippi River)
The Iowa River is down in this section; headed toward moderate flood stage with the crest forecast to be sometime late on Saturday.

Lake Belva Deer
Water level has risen with recent rains; water is pretty cloudy. Last weekend the fishing was pretty good, but has slowed down after the heavy rains. Black Crappie - Slow: Find crappies in 10-12 feet of water; you have to work for them. Largemouth Bass - Slow: A decent percentage of bass have spawned and moved off the beds.

Lake Darling
Wednesday, May 29, the water was over the tops of the fishing jetties. By Thursday, the water dropped 6 inches. The gangways to the boat docks at the ramps remain underwater.

Lost Grove Lake
Heavy rains have brought the lake level up and the water is turning cloudy. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Anglers continue to catch bass; work them out along the edges of the weed beds and around the trees and brush piles in 4-6 feet of water. Black Crappie - Slow: Look for crappies out around the deeper habitat. Bluegill - Fair: Some bluegills are spawning, despite the cooler water temperatures.

Skunk River (Rose Hill to Coppock)
The Skunk River is well above flood stage, with most of the access points underwater.

For more information on the above lake, call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

Hawthorn Lake
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try rubber worms or spinnerbaits around the rock jetties and along the dam. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try dead chubs or nightcrawlers. 

Lake Miami
Water levels have risen with the recent rains. Black Crappie - Fair: Try jigs tipped with a minnow around the submerged trees. Bluegill - Fair: Try small jigs around the rock jetties and shorelines. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use rubber worms around the fishing jetties and along the face of the dam. 

Lake Sugema
Water levels are very high. The boat docks and fishing jetties are underwater. The lake is about 6 feet above normal pool. Largemouth Bass - Good: Try spinnerbaits or crankbaits around rock jetties and along the dam. Black Crappie - Fair: Use jigs tipped with a minnow around the flooded timber and submerged structure. Keep moving until you find active fish.

Lake Wapello
Water levels are variable with the recent rains. Bluegill - Fair: Try small jigs along the shorelines. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use cut bait or dead chubs. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try rubber worms or spinnerbaits around rock jetties and submerged structure. 

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 916.81 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. The water temperature is in the lower 60's. The lake's water level has risen about 7 feet in the last week and will continue to rise with more rain. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another water body. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try cut bait or shad sides in areas with flowing water. Black Crappie - Fair: Crappie fishing has slowed with the cooler weather and the rain. Try jigs and minnows along rocky shores and around structure. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Good: Anglers have been successful trolling crankbaits along rocky shores. Walleye - Fair: Try trolling over submerged points or along rocky shores.

Red Haw Lake
Water levels are variable with the recent rains. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use cut bait or dead chubs. Bluegill - Fair: Try small jigs fished around the shores and submerged structure. Largemouth Bass - Good: Try rubber worms or spinnerbaits around brush piles and other submerged structure.

The district includes Mahaska, Lucas, Wayne, Monroe, Appanoose, Wapello, Davis and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST

Big Creek Lake
Walleye - Good: Use jigs or troll spinner rigs out from the marina to past the beach and around the east and west ramp bays. If shore fishing, cast jigs or live bait under a slip bobber in these same areas. Black Crappie - Fair: Drift small tube and twister tail jigs on the east side of the lake between the beach and East Boat Ramp bay.

Dakins Lake
Bluegill - Good: Catch bluegills out from the north shoreline and jetties with small jigs tipped with crawlers. Good size bluegill from 7 to 9 inches are being caught.

Don Williams Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Use live minnows near tree falls next to shore or slowly troll jigs 3 to 6 feet deep. A good area to troll is mid-lake between the boat ramp and the beach.

Lake Ahquabi
Bluegill - Good: Catch spawning bluegills shallow with small pieces of nightcrawlers. Fish open spaces in the aquatic vegetation near shore and around tree falls.

Roberts Creek Lake
White Crappie - Good: Use live minnows near shallow wood or drift jigs in coves off the main lake.

For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

 

Cold Springs District Farm Ponds
Farm pond fishing has been steady. Some ponds are turbid due to significant rains last weekend. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills are starting to move close to shore. Cast the shoreline to find spawning fish. Black Crappie - Good: Crappie fishing has been good in ponds that support a crappie population; they are spawning. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast a variety of lures to catch active largemouth bass. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try cut bait or shad sides.

Cold Springs Lake
Cold Springs has a good population of 8 inch bluegill that are moving to shore to spawn. Bluegill - No Report: Cast small jigs north of the beach to find spawning bluegills. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast the shoreline to catch 12 to 15 inch largemouth bass. Cold Springs has an 18 inch minimum size limit.

Greenfield Lake
Greenfield Lake has a good population of black crappies and fair numbers of walleyes to provide fishing this spring. Black Crappie - Fair: Find crappies around the jetties. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Greenfield has a good population of 12 to 15 inch bass. Bluegill - No Report: Bluegills will average 8 inches. They should move into shore soon, probably by the weekend.

Lake Anita
Look for spawning crappies around the underwater reefs and jetties.Bluegills should be close with warming water temperatures. Black Crappie - Fair: Cast around rocky shores and reefs to find spawning crappies. Bluegill - Fair: With warm temperatures, bluegills should move close to shore and on top of the reefs soon. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Cast along vegetation edges and around structure to find largemouth bass of all sizes.

Lake Manawa
Anglers are still finding good crappie fishing in the canals. Black Crappie - Fair: Anglers report the crappie fishing in the canals has slowed a bit. Cast minnows under a bobber to catch 10 inch crappies. Walleye - Fair: Cast twister tails with a slow retrieve on the west shoreline and along Tin Can dyke.

Littlefield Lake
Anglers were catching spawning bluegills this week. If water clarity remains good, Littlefield will be a good destination this weekend. Bluegill - Good: Cast the shoreline to find spawning bluegill. Fish should average 8 inches. Black Crappie - No Report: Littlefield has a small population of large black crappies.

Orient Lake
Orient Lake has a good population of black crappies that should provide good fishing. Black Crappie - Fair: Cast jigs or minnows along the dam and east shore to find 10 plus inch black crappies. Sorting is needed with a large number of 7 inch fish. Bluegill - Fair: The bluegills look good at Orient and should average 8 inches. Look for spawning fish close to shore.

Viking Lake
A few crappies can still be caught around the jetties and along the underwater reefs. The crappie spawn is winding down at Viking. Black Crappie - Fair: Look for crappies around rocky shores and underwater reefs. They are close to shore spawning. Cast and slowly retrieve a small 1/64th or 1/32nd ounce jig. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Viking Lake has a good population of bass up to 20 inches. Fish rocky shores and flats close to the channel.

Water temperatures are in the upper 60's. Anglers that dodged storms were able to catch spawning crappies last week. For more information, contact the Cold Springs office at 712-769-2587.

Green Valley Lake
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Catch largemouth bass of all sizes with jigs and finesse plastics near the fishing jetties and silt dams. Bluegill - Good: Catch bluegill up to 8 inches using small jigs or worms under a bobber fished near cedar tree brush piles or the fishing jetties. Black Crappie - Good: Catch crappie up to 9 inches with small jigs or minnows fished near shallow brush, the fishing pier or fishing jetties.

Lake Icaria
Black Crappie - Fair: Catch crappie up to 10 inches with small jigs or minnows fished near the fishing jetties or cedar tree brush piles, especially early and late in the day. Walleye - Slow: Try jigs tipped with a minnow fished along main lake points for walleye of all sizes. Bluegill - Fair: Use jigs tipped with a nightcrawler fished under a bobber along the fishing jetties or rocky shoreline areas. Channel Catfish - Good: Catch channel catfish of all sizes using cut bait fished near the silt dam or rocky shoreline areas.

Little River Watershed Lake
Bluegill - Good: Catch bluegill up to 9 inches with small jigs fished near the fishing jetties, cedar tree brush piles or shallow bays. Largemouth Bass - Good: Try finesse plastics fished near cedar tree brush piles or rocky shoreline areas for largemouth bass of all sizes. Black Crappie - Slow: Use small jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles or rocky shoreline areas for crappies up to 12 inches. Walleye - Slow: Try jigs tipped with a leech or minnow fished along main lake points for walleye up to 22 inches.

Three Mile Lake
Walleye - Good: Catch walleye up to 22 inches with jigs tipped with a leech or minnow fished near main lake points. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Catch largemouth bass of all sizes using finesse plastics or spinnerbaits fished along rocky shoreline areas. Bluegill - Good: Catch bluegill up to 8 inches with nightcrawlers fished along shallow cedar tree brush piles and the fishing jetties.

Twelve Mile Creek Lake
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try jigs or finesse plastics fished along cedar tree brush piles or shallow brush in the bays for largemouth bass of all sizes. Black Crappie - Fair: Try small jigs or minnows fished near the fishing jetties, along the rock reefs or shallow cedar tree brush piles, especially early and late in the day. Bluegill - Good: Catch bluegill up to 8.5 inches with jigs tipped with a worm fished near the fishing jetties or  shallow brush.

Water temperature in most Mount Ayr district lakes is in the mid to upper 60's. Water levels are 2-3 feet above normal pool at the larger lakes after significant rainfall this week. For more information, please call the Mount Ayr Fisheries office at 641-464-3108.

[Rick]

NORTHWEST

Arrowhead Lake
Arrowhead Lake had around 4.5 inches of ice at the boat ramp, as of Dec. 19.

Bacon Creek Lake
Bacon Creek has around 4 inches of ice. A few anglers have been out on foot.

Black Hawk Lake
As of Dec. 19, there was 6 inches of ice off the Ice House Point boat ramp. There are still open water fishing opportunities at the Fish House and the Inlet Bridge. Yellow Perch - Fair: Anglers are catching some perch around Shotgun Hill and the Ice House Point boat ramp. Keeper size perch range from 8- to 12-inches.

Black Hawk Pits
There is 5 inches of ice at the Black Hawk Pits boat ramp, as of Dec. 19.

Browns Lake
Browns Lake has around 6 inches of ice.

North Twin Lake
There was around 4 inches of ice on North Twin earlier this week. Some anglers have been out on foot.

Lakes in West Central Iowa are pretty well iced over. Foot traffic on the ice is increasing. For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Beeds Lake
Ice thickness is 4 to 5 inches.  

Clear Lake
Ice thickness is 7 to 8 inches. Bluegill - Slow: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm near the edge of vegetation. Yellow Perch - Good: Yellow perch are biting on a variety of baits. You may have to change your technique to catch larger fish. Walleye - Fair: Try small jigs tipped with a minnow head. Black Crappie – Slow.

Crystal Lake
Ice thickness is 5 to 6 inches. No fishing activity reported.

Lake Smith
Ice thickness is 5 to 7 inches. Anglers are catching small bluegills and a few crappies. Use caution near the aeration hole southeast of the island.

Little Wall Lake
Ice thickness is 4 to 5 inches. Anglers reported catching small crappies and bluegills.

Lower Pine Lake
Ice thickness is 4.5 inches at the boat ramp. Ice thickness varies significantly across the lake; there is a large area of open water between the island and the beach.  

Rice Lake
Ice thickness is 6 to 8 inches. Bluegill – Slow. Yellow Perch – Slow.

Silver Lake (Worth)
Ice thickness is 6 to 8 inches. Bluegills are biting on small jigs tipped with a waxworm.

Upper Pine Lake
Ice thickness is 4.5 inches at the boat ramp. Ice thickness varies significantly across the lake.

For information on the lakes and rivers in the north central area, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

East Okoboji Lake
Ice thickness is 5 to 7 inches. Bluegill - Good: Sorting is needed, but the bite has been good in the southern section of the lake along the weed line. Use small jigs and wigglers near the trestle and the Hattie Elston Boat Ramp. Walleye - Good: Fishing near Parks Marina in the evening has been good. Use spoons, jigging raps, or minnows in early morning or evening.

Ingham Lake
The aeration system has been started. Use caution in the southeast side of the lake. Signs are up around the aerator hole.

Lost Island Lake
Yellow Perch – Fair. Walleye – Fair.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
The aeration system has been started. Use caution on the east side of the lake. Signs are up around the aeration holes.

Spirit Lake
Ice thickness is 7-9 inches. Walleye - Good: Fish 1 hour before and after sunrise or sunset. Use spoons or jigging raps tipped with minnow heads in 12-14 feet of water. Also try live minnows. Bluegill - Fair: Use wigglers and small jigs in Anglers Bay and Trickles Slough. Yellow Perch - Good: Try minnows and small jigs in Anglers Bay and Minniwaukon. Black Crappie – Fair.

Trumbull Lake
Yellow Perch - Fair: Size quality is outstanding with some sorting. Use jigs and minnows or wigglers in the main lake.

West Okoboji Lake
West Okoboji was the last lake to fully ice up, locking up Dec. 12. Use extreme caution when heading out on the ice; check ice thickness and conditions regularly. Ice thickness has been up to 5 inches in small bays and thinner on the main lake. Bluegill - Fair: Little Emerson Bay has been producing a few nice bluegills; sorting is needed. Walleye - Fair: Fish rocky areas in 18-20 feet of water. Live minnows work best an hour before and after sunset. Smallmouth Bass - Good: A unique early season bite has been reported in Little Emerson Bay. 

Ice thickness has improved with thickness ranging from 4-10 inches. Use caution with ATV’s. No vehicle traffic is advised. Water flow into and out of area lakes has caused weak areas around bridges and other constrictions. Use caution and test the ice often. Aeration systems at Center Lake, Silver Lake (near Lake Park), and Ingham Lake have been started and signs put up. Stay clear of these systems. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Backwaters and slack water areas frozen. Use care when crossing areas with current. Check depths often. Anglers are finding fish. Black Crappie - Fair: Find deeper water or off-channel refuges out of current. Use waxworms or spikes. Yellow Perch - Slow: Anglers are finding a few perch mixed in with the crappie.

Decorah District Streams
Stocked fish remain in streams through the winter creating excellent angling opportunities. Trout streams with good flows stay open even during winter. Second shotgun deer season closes Sunday; wear bright orange and be visible to hunters. Brown Trout - Good: Try a fly imitating small silvery fish. Feathered spinner baits work well when fished through pools. Rainbow Trout - Good: Use an ultra-light pole and reel for fun action. Try a spinner in eddies and around structure. Brook Trout - Good: With fewer insect hatches, try using flies imitating minnows such as a wholly bugger.

Lake Hendricks
Lake Hendricks has about 6 inches of ice with a skiff of snow on top. Water has a brown tint to it. Open water around the aerator. Not safe for ice fishing. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the ice. Black Crappie - Good: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm. Fish are suspended off the bottom. Bluegill - Good: Use a baited hook; gills are sitting closer to the bottom.

Lake Meyer
Lake Meyer has about 5 inches of ice. Hit or miss action on panfish, but no limits yet. Bluegill - Good: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm around brush piles. Black Crappie - Good: Crappie are suspended above brush piles. Baited hooks work best.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Backwaters and slack water areas are ice covered. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on Vernon Springs impoundment when covered with ice. Water is crystal clear. Check ice depths often, especially where there is current.

Volga Lake
Volga Lake has about 6 inches of ice. Use care when going on ice; check depths often. Black Crappie - Fair: Use waxworms or spikes fished in brush or rock piles. Bluegill - Fair: Try small bait on small hooks. Gills are small.

Great weekend weather to go ice fishing. Low 40's for highs to low 20's for lows. Many rivers have areas of open water. Use care when around areas with current. Most area lakes have about 5 inches of ice. Trout streams are good to excellent. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

Alice Wyth Lake
Anglers are catching panfish on Alice Wyth Lake, but size structure is small. Bluegill - Fair: Try vertical jigging with an ice jig tipped with a spike or waxworm. Black Crappie - Fair: Try vertical jigging with an ice jig tipped with a spike or waxworm or fish a dead stick with a live minnow tipped on a jig.

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
No reports on the Cedar River in Black Hawk and Bremer counties this past week. Walleye - No Report: Cast and retrieve crankbaits or use jig and minnow near instream habitat or deeper overwintering areas.

Horton Pond
Anglers are fishing Horton Pond, but there are no catch reports. Bluegill - No Report: Try vertical jigging with an ice jig tipped with a spike or waxworm.

Manchester District Streams
Most streams have great populations of wild brown trout and catchable stocked rainbow trout.

Maquoketa River (above Monticello)
No reports this past week on the Maquoketa River in Delaware County. Walleye - No Report: Cast and retrieve crankbaits or use jig and minnow near instream habitat or deeper overwintering areas.

Martens Lake
Reports of anglers catching some bluegill ice fishing Martens Lake early morning; sorting may be needed. Bluegill - Fair: Try vertical jigging with an ice jig tipped with a spike or waxworm.

North Prairie Lake
Reports of anglers catching some trout out of North Prairie Lake. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Rainbow Trout - Fair: Try vertical jigging with a small flashy jig tipped with or without a waxworm.

Plainfield
Anglers are fishing Plainfield Lake, but there are no catch reports. Bluegill - No Report: Try vertical jigging with an ice jig tipped with a spike or waxworm.

Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)
No reports this past week on the Shell Rock River in Bremer and Butler counties. Walleye - No Report: Cast and retrieve crankbaits or use jig and minnow near instream habitat or deeper overwintering areas.

Wapsipinicon River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)
No reports on the Wapsipinicon River in Buchanan County this past week. Walleye - No Report: Cast and retrieve or troll crankbaits or use jig and minnow near instream habitat or deeper overwintering areas.

Ice flows on the interior rivers are stopping any reports right now. Second shotgun deer season again this weekend; wear orange if at all possible if out fishing. Lakes and ponds are just starting to lay down some good ice, but the extended seven day forecast may deteriorate that quickly. Use extreme caution if ice fishing throughout this warm-up. All trout streams remain in excellent condition. Call the N.E. Iowa district office at 563-927-3276 for more information.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9
River level is 8.9 feet at Lansing and expected to continue to fluctuate slightly this week. Ice is just starting to form on backwaters; ice fishing is not recommended until the ice strengthens. Water temperature is 32 degrees. Walleye - Fair: A lot of smaller fish are being caught. Vertical jigging with twister tails or trolling crankbaits has been successful in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Sauger - Fair: Vertical jigging with twister tails or jig tipped with minnows has had the most success in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Yellow Perch - Fair: Fish for perch through the ice in deeper cuts with some vegetation in backwater areas. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill are biting on waxworms fished through the ice in backwater lakes. 

Mississippi River Pool 10
River level is 616.9 feet at Lynxville and expected to rise slightly this week. The ramp at Lynxville may be difficult to use because of ice flows. Ice is just starting to form on backwaters; ice fishing is not recommended until the ice strengthens. Water temperature is 34 degrees. Walleye - Fair: A lot of smaller fish are being caught. Vertical jigging with twister tails or trolling crankbaits has been successful in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Sauger - Fair: Try jigs tipped with a minnow in the tailwaters of the Lock & Dams. Yellow Perch - Fair: Fish for perch through the ice in deeper cuts with some vegetation in backwater areas. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill are biting on waxworms fished through the ice in backwater lakes. 

Mississippi River Pool 11
River level is 8.4 feet at Guttenberg and is expected to continue to rise slightly then level out this week. Ice is just starting to form on backwaters; ice fishing is not recommended until the ice strengthens. The DNR ramp has iced in, but make breakup with warmer weather. The city ramp may be difficult to use because of ice flows. Water temperature is 32 degrees. Walleye - Fair: A lot of smaller fish are being caught. Vertical jigging with twister tails or trolling crankbaits has been successful in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Sauger - Fair: Try jigs tipped with a minnow in the tailwaters of the Lock & Dams. Yellow Perch - Fair: Fish for perch through the ice in deeper cuts with some vegetation in backwater areas. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice.

Upper Mississippi River levels have fallen, but some fluctuation is occurring this week. Many of the roller gates are now down which will help stabilize tailwater areas. A lot of new ice is flowing down the channel which will make fishing difficult; some ramps are starting to ice in. Ice is just starting to form on backwaters with reports of up to 4 inches. Caution is recommend ice fishing until the ice strengthens. Areas of current do not have safe ice. Water temperature is 32 degrees

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
The water level is 7.5 feet at the Dubuque Lock and Dam and 10 feet at the RR bridge. River levels at Dubuque are expected to hold steady over the next week. The water temperature is 34 degrees. Water clarity is good. The tailwater has been mostly iced in or has had ice flows. It may become accessible with expected warmer temperatures. Sauger - Good: Tailwater sauger fishing has most anglers are using a jig and minnow. Lots of small sauger and small walleye are being reported. The tailwater may open up with warmer temperatures this weekend. Black Crappie - Fair: Backwater ice has just started and is marginal. Some crappies are being caught. Walleye - Fair: Most anglers are pulling crank baits in the tailwaters. Yellow Perch - Good: Yellow perch are starting to show up in the ice fishing creel. Bluegill - Slow: Most bluegill fishing has been slow, but some experienced anglers are finding fish.

Mississippi River Pool 13
Water level is 7.9 feet at the Bellevue Lock and Dam and is steady. The water temperature is 33 degrees. Water clarity is good. Tailwaters experienced significant ice flows at times, but is presently ice free. Sauger - Good: Most anglers are using a jig and minnow. Walleye - Fair: Some walleyes are being reported by anglers pulling double Rapalas or a floating jig head with a minnow. 

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is 6.2 feet at the Fulton Lock and Dam, 10.2 feet at Camanche and 5.1 feet at LeClaire. Water temperature is around 33 degrees. River levels are expected to rise slightly next week. Walleye - Fair: Some walleyes are being taken on double Rapala rigs. Sauger - Good: Use a jig tipped with a minnow. Lots of small fish reported. 

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water levels are 7 feet at Rock Island and will fall this week. The water temperature is around 33 degrees. Water clarity is good. 

Tailwaters were receiving high fishing pressure, but some ice flows are occurring. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-872-4976.

Mississippi River Pool 16
Tailwater stage is 7.03 feet at Lock and Dam 15 in the Quad Cities and is forecast to reach 7.4 feet by Tuesday. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 15. A bunch of floating ice chunks at the Marquette St Landing in Davenport could make loading and unloading boats difficult. Unsafe ice conditions. Walleye - Slow: Look for walleyes in the tailwaters. Use jigs and minnows or troll three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits. Sauger - Slow: Look for saugers in the tailwaters. Try jigs and minnows or troll three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits. 

Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage is 5.95 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine and is rising slightly. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 16. River stage is 8.16 feet at Muscatine; flood stage is 16 feet. As of Dec. 19th, there is a bunch of floating ice chunks at the Muscatine ramps that could make loading and unloading boats difficult. The gates at the Lock and Dam were back in the water. Unsafe ice conditions. Walleye - No Report: Look for walleyes by the dam. Try vertical jigging with minnows or pulling three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits. Sauger - No Report: Use jigs and minnows or pull three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits in the tailwaters. 

Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage is 7.03 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston and is forecast to reach 7.5 feet by Monday. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 17. River stage is 8.77 feet at Keithsburg; flood stage is 14 feet. A couple of days ago there was a ridge of ice at the bottom of the ramp and there was a lot of flow ice at Toolsboro. We have not received any tailwater fishing reports for walleye and sauger. Unsafe ice conditions. Sauger - No Report: Look for saugers below the dam. Try vertical jigging with minnows or trolling three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits. Walleye - No Report: Look for walleyes below the dam. Try vertical jigging with minnows or trolling three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits.

Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage is 4.41 feet at Lock and Dam 18 and has been steady the past few days. Flood stage is 10 feet at Lock and Dam 18. River stage is 10.43 feet at Burlington; flood stage is 15 feet. River stage is 526.8 feet at Fort Madison; flood stage is 528 feet. We have not received any fishing report information for this pool. 

Tailwater stages have been steady to rising slightly this past week. Main channel water temperature is around 32 degrees. Unsafe ice conditions. If you have questions on fishing Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.

 

SOUTHEAST

Big Hollow Lake
Unsafe ice.

Lake Belva Deer
Open water and unsafe thin icewith a little snow on top.

Lake Darling
About 100 acres of open water surrounded by about 1 inch of ice. Unsafe ice thickness.

Lake Darling District Farm Ponds
Getting closer to two inches, thick but not there yet.  

Lost Grove Lake
Ice is getting a little thicker, but still way too thin to walk on.

Pollmiller Park Lake
The lake finally skimmed over with ice, but the 3 inches of snow on top isn't helping it build more ice.

For more information on the above lake, call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

Coralville Reservoir
Much of the lake is ice covered, but it is extremely variable due to falling water conditions and increased flows over the past week. The lake is now down to winter pool of 683.4 feet.

Diamond Lake
The lake is partially covered in skim ice.

Iowa Lake (Iowa Co.)
Skim ice formed over most of the lake this week.

Lake Macbride
Most of the lake is ice covered, but the ice is extremely variable. Some areas have 3 inches. A few anglers out, but ice fishing is not recommended.

Otter Creek Lake
The lake is ice covered. Much of the lake has 3-4 inches, but it can vary. There have been some anglers out; use caution.

Pleasant Creek Lake
The lake is ice covered and variable. Ice fishing is not recommended.

Wapsipinicon River (Troy Mills to Oxford Junction)
Skim ice has formed over the backwaters, but is still unsafe. The boat ramp in Pinicon Ridge is closed for the winter.

Most lakes/ponds now have skim ice; there is no safe ice in this area. For more information, contact the Lake Macbride Fisheries Station at 319-624-3615.

Lake Miami
Skim ice is forming overnight when cold enough, making fishing difficult.

Lake Sugem
Skim ice is forming in some of the bays. Geese are keeping large areas open.

Lake Wapello
Skim ice is forming at night, making fishing difficult.

Ottumwa Park Pond South
Trout were stocked on Oct. 25th. The pond is covered in skim ice, making fishing difficult. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 904.23 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another water body. Most docks have been pulled out for the season and most campgrounds are closed. The bays and coves will start to be covered with skim ice, making fishing difficult.

Red Haw Lake
Skim ice is forming overnight, making fishing difficult.

There has been very little angler activity in the last week. There is no safe ice in the Rathbun district. The district includes Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST

Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake
As of Dec. 18, there was 4.5 inches of ice off the boat ramp. Rainbow Trout - Fair: Catch trout through the ice fishing 5 to 20 yards off shore using panfish jigs and small jigging spoons tipped with waxworms. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.  

Big Creek Lake
As of Dec. 18, anglers were just starting to test the ice and try fishing. Ice conditions are variable, with thin ice yet further out from shore. There was 6 inches of ice at the 100th Street Ramp, 3 inches at West Ramp, 5 inches at the East Ramp and 3 inches at the Marina Ramp.

Don Williams Lake
As of Dec. 18, there was 5 inches of ice off the boat ramp. A couple anglers were out. Use caution, the ice is still variable. Black Crappie - Good: Expect fair to good crappie fishing this winter with many 8.5- to 10-inch fish. Fish suspended fish over the stump covered ridge that extends out from the shoreline across from the boat ramp.

Lake Petocka
As of Dec. 18, there was 4 to 6 inches of ice. Rainbow Trout - Good: Catch trout through the ice using panfish jigs and small jigging spoons tipped with waxworms. Start by fishing close to shore in 3 to 5 feet of water.  If no activity, keep moving slightly deeper until fish are found. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.

Ponds and lakes in Central Iowa have formed ice ranging from 2 to 6 inches. Anglers are just starting to check ice and start fishing. For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

Big Lake (Including Gilbert's Pond)
Unsafe ice. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.  

Lake Anita
There was some activity on the ice last week. Ice thickness is variable from open water to 4 inches. Use extreme caution. Black Crappie - No Report: 10 inch black crappie were collected in the DNR fall survey. Bluegill - No Report: Anita consistently produces 8 inch plus bluegills.

Littlefield Lake
Ice thickness is variable up to 4 inches. Some activity on the ice last week. Use caution. Bluegill - Good: Fish around the brush piles and sort for 8 inch plus fish.

Ice conditions have improved on the lakes in the northern part of the district. For more information call the SW District Office at 712-769-2587.

[Rick]

NORTHWEST

Arrowhead Lake
Arrowhead Lake had around 3-4 inches of ice at the boat ramp on Dec. 26. There has been little fishing activity. Use extreme caution.

Bacon Creek Lake
On Dec. 23, the DNR stocked about 1500 rainbow trout ranging from 10-12 inches long. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.  Ice thickness was 5 inches on Dec. 23. Use caution and check ice often if you venture out. Predicted rain over the weekend may further deteriorate ice conditions. Rainbow Trout - Fair: Use a piece of worm, small minnow, or power bait bite fished under a bobber. Put the bait on a small hook or small and shiny jig.

Black Hawk Lake
As of Dec. 26, there was 5 inches of ice off the Ice House Point boat ramp. There are still open water fishing opportunities at the Fish House and the Inlet Bridge. There is thinner ice and open areas in the east basin. Yellow Perch - Fair: Anglers are catching some perch around Shotgun Hill and the Ice House Point boat ramp. Keeper size perch range from 8- to 12-inches. Black Crappie - Fair: Anglers have picked up some fish using minnows on a small jig.

Black Hawk Pits
There was 3-4 inches of ice at the Black Hawk Pits boat ramp on Dec. 26. Forecast temperatures and rain over the weekend may deteriorate ice conditions. Black Crappie - Fair: Anglers have picked up some perch on minnows.

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Reports of variable ice thickness on Storm Lake from 2-8 inches. Foot traffic only is recommended. Use extreme caution; may be some open areas and seams. Predicted rain over the weekend may further deteriorate ice conditions. Anglers have reported catching perch, walleye, and some crappie.

Lakes in West Central Iowa have lost 1-2 inches of ice since last week. As of Dec. 26th, ice thickness ranges from 2-8 inches on area lakes. Geese have kept several areas open on some lakes. Foot traffic only is recommended in our district at this time. Use extreme caution; predicted temperatures and rain over the weekend may further deteriorate ice conditions. For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Beeds Lake
Ice thickness is 4 to 5 inches.  

Clear Lake
Ice thickness is 8 to 9 inches. Use caution near the rushes. Bluegill - Slow: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm near the edge of vegetation. Yellow Perch - Good: Yellow perch are biting on a variety of baits. You may have to change your technique to catch larger fish. Walleye - Fair: Try small jigs tipped with a minnow head. Black Crappie – Slow.

Crystal Lake
Ice thickness is 5 to 6 inches. No fishing activity reported.

Lake Smith
Ice thickness is 5 to 7 inches. Anglers are catching small bluegills and a few crappies. Use caution near the aeration hole southeast of the island.

Rice Lake
Ice thickness is 6 to 8 inches. Bluegill – Slow. Yellow Perch – Slow.

Silver Lake (Worth)
Ice thickness is 6 to 8 inches.

For information on the lakes and rivers in the north central area, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

East Okoboji Lake
Ice thickness is 5 to 7 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Sorting is needed, but the bite has been good in the southern section of the lake along the weed line. Use small jigs and wigglers near the trestle and the Hattie Elston Boat Ramp. Walleye - Good: Fishing near Parks Marina in the evening has been good. Use spoons, jigging raps, or minnows in early morning or evening. Yellow Bass – Fair.

Ingham Lake
The aeration system has been started. Use caution in the southeast side of the lake. Signs are up around the aerator hole.

Lost Island Lake
Yellow Perch – Fair. Walleye – Fair.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
The aeration system has been started. Use caution on the east side of the lake. Signs are up around the aeration holes.

Spirit Lake
Ice thickness is 7-10 inches. Walleye - Good: Fish 1 hour before and after sunrise or sunset. Use spoons or jigging raps tipped with minnow heads in 12-14 feet of water. Also try live minnows. Reports of lots of slot size and bigger fish. Bluegill - Good: Use wigglers and small jigs in Anglers Bay and Trickles Slough. Yellow Perch - Good: Try minnows and small jigs in Anglers Bay and Minniwaukon. Best bite is early and late. Black Crappie – Fair.

Trumbull Lake
Yellow Perch - Fair: Size quality is outstanding with some sorting. Use jigs and minnows or wigglers in the main lake.

West Okoboji Lake
West Okoboji ice conditions are variable. Use extreme caution when heading out and check ice thickness and conditions regularly. Ice thickness has been up to 5 inches in small bays and thinner on the main lake. Bluegill - Good: Little Emerson Bay has been producing a few nice bluegills; sorting is needed. Walleye - Fair: Fish rocky areas in 18-20 feet of water. Live minnows work best an hour before and after sunset. Smallmouth Bass - Good: A unique early season bite has been reported in Little Emerson Bay. 

Ice thickness is 4-10 inches on area lakes. Warmer weather has slowed ice formation, but the quality is generally good. Some large seams and ridges have become evident; atay away from these areas. Use caution with ATV’s. No vehicle traffic is advised. Water flow into and out of the area lakes has caused weak areas around bridges and other constrictions. Aeration systems at Center Lake, Silver Lake (near Lake Park), and Ingham Lake have been started and signs are put up. Stay clear of these systems. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Backwaters and slack water areas are frozen. Use care when crossing areas with current. Check depths often. Anglers are finding fish. Black Crappie - Fair: Find deeper water or off-channel refuges out of current. Use waxworms or spikes. Yellow Perch - Slow: Anglers are finding a few perch mixed in with the crappie.

Decorah District Streams
Stocked fish remain in streams through the winter creating excellent angling opportunities. Trout streams with good flows stay open even during winter. Check our 2020 Winter Community Trout Stocking Schedule to find out when trout may be coming to a community near you. Wear bright orange and be visible to hunters when fishing wildlife management areas. Brown Trout - Good: Try a fly imitating small silvery fish. Feathered spinner baits work well when fished through pools. Rainbow Trout - Good: Use an ultra-light pole and reel for fun action. Try a spinner in eddies and around structure. Brook Trout - Good: With fewer insect hatches, try using flies imitating minnows such as a wholly bugger.

Lake Hendricks
Lake Hendricks has about 5 inches of ice with water sitting on top. Water has a brown tint to it. Open water around the aerator. Not safe for ice fishing. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the ice. Black Crappie - Good: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm. Fish are suspended off the bottom. Bluegill - Good: Use a baited hook; gills are sitting closer to the bottom.

Lake Meyer
Lake Meyer has about 5 inches of ice. Hit or miss action on panfish, but no limits yet. Bluegill - Good: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm around brush piles. Black Crappie - Good: Crappie are suspended above brush piles. Baited hooks work best.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Backwaters and slack water areas are ice covered. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on Vernon Springs impoundment when covered with ice. Water is crystal clear. Check ice depths often, especially where there is current.

Volga Lake
Volga Lake has about 6 inches of ice. Use care when going on ice; check depths often. Warmer temperatures are melting surface ice, causing extra slippery conditions. Black Crappie - Fair: Use waxworms or spikes fished in brush or rock piles. Bluegill - Fair: Try small bait on small hooks. Gills are small.

Great weather continues through the week to go ice fishing. Low 40's for highs to low 20's for lows. Ice conditions can change quickly with warmer daytime temperatures. Many rivers have areas of open water. Use care when around areas with current. Most area lakes have about 5 inches of ice. Trout streams are good to excellent. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
No reports on the Cedar River in Black Hawk and Bremer counties this past week. Walleye - No Report: Cast and retrieve crankbaits or use jig and minnow near instream habitat or deeper overwintering areas.

Manchester District Streams
Most streams have great populations of wild brown trout and catchable stocked rainbow trout.

Maquoketa River (above Monticello)
No reports this past week on the Maquoketa River in Delaware County. Walleye - No Report: Cast and retrieve crankbaits or use jig and minnow near instream habitat or deeper overwintering areas.

Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)
No reports this past week on the Shell Rock River in Bremer and Butler counties. Walleye - No Report: Cast and retrieve crankbaits or use jig and minnow near instream habitat or deeper overwintering areas.

Wapsipinicon River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)
No reports on the Wapsipinicon River in Buchanan County this past week. Walleye - No Report: Cast and retrieve crankbaits or use jig and minnow near instream habitat or deeper overwintering areas.

Anglers are taking back to the interior rivers for walleye fishing. Ice conditions have quickly deteriorated with the recent warm weather; ice fishing is not recommended. . All trout streams remain in excellent condition. Call the N.E. Iowa district office at 563-927-3276 for more information.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9
River level is 9.4 feet at Lansing and expected to fluctuate slightly this week. Ice is just starting to form on backwaters; ice fishing is not recommended until the ice strengthens. Water temperature is 32 degrees. Walleye - Fair: A lot of smaller fish are being caught. Vertical jigging with twister tails or trolling crankbaits has been successful in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Sauger - Fair: Vertical jigging with twister tails or jig tipped with minnows has had the most success in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Yellow Perch - Fair: Fish for perch through the ice in deeper cuts with some vegetation in backwater areas. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill are biting on waxworms fished through the ice in backwater lakes. 

Mississippi River Pool 10
River level is 618.1 feet at Lynxville and expected to rise slightly before leveling off. Ice is just starting to form on backwaters; ice fishing is not recommended until the ice strengthens. Water temperature is 34 degrees. Walleye - Fair: A lot of smaller fish are being caught. Vertical jigging with twister tails or trolling crankbaits has been successful in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Sauger - Fair: Try jigs tipped with a minnow in the tailwaters of the Lock & Dams. Yellow Perch - Fair: Fish for perch through the ice in deeper cuts with some vegetation in backwater areas. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill are biting on waxworms fished through the ice in backwater lakes. 

Mississippi River Pool 11
River level at Guttenberg has risen more than a foot to 10 feet and is expected to level out this week. Ice is just starting to form on backwaters; ice fishing is not recommended until the ice strengthens. Water temperature is 32 degrees. Walleye - Fair: A lot of smaller fish are being caught. Vertical jigging with twister tails or trolling crankbaits has been successful in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Sauger - Fair: Try jigs tipped with a minnow in the tailwaters of the Lock & Dams. Yellow Perch - Fair: Fish for perch through the ice in deeper cuts with some vegetation in backwater areas. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice.

Upper Mississippi River levels have risen slightly and are fluctuating this week. Many of the roller gates are now down; this will help stabilize tailwater areas. A lot of new ice is flowing down the channel which will make fishing difficult; some ramps are starting to ice in. Caution is recommend when ice fishing until the ice strengthens. Areas of current do not have safe ice. Water temperature is 32 degrees

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
The water level is 8 feet at the Dubuque Lock and Dam and 10.4 feet at the RR bridge. River levels at Dubuque were expected to rise early week then start to recede. The water temperature is 34 degrees. Water clarity is good. Tailwater fishing is taking place, but periodic ice flows are occurring. Backwater ice is marginal for ice fishing within Pool 12. Sauger - Good: Tailwater sauger fishing has most anglers using a jig and minnow. Lots of small sauger and small walleye are being reported. The tailwater may open up with warmer temperatures this weekend. Black Crappie - Fair: Backwater ice is marginal. Some crappies are being caught. Walleye - Fair: Most anglers are pulling crank baits in the tailwaters. Yellow Perch - Good: Yellow perch have shown up in the ice fishing creel. Bluegill - Slow: Most bluegill fishing has been slow, but some experienced anglers are finding fish. Ice is marginal. 

Mississippi River Pool 13
Water level is around 8.5 feet at the Bellevue Lock and Dam. Water level will rise early week and then recede again. The water temperature is 34 degrees. Water clarity is good. Tailwater fishing is taking place, but periodic ice flows are occurring. Backwater ice is marginal for ice fishing. Sauger - Good: Most anglers are using a jig and minnow. Walleye - Good: Some walleyes are being reported by anglers pulling double Rapalas or a floating jig head with a minnow. Bluegill - No Report: Ice thickness is marginal at best for ice fishing.

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is 7.5 feet at the Fulton Lock and Dam, 11 feet at Camanche and 6 feet at LeClaire. Water temperature is around 34 degrees. River levels were expected to rise early week then recede again. Walleye - Fair: Some walleyes are being taken on double Rapala rigs. Sauger - Good: Use a jig tipped with a minnow. Lots of small fish reported. 

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water levels are around 8.2 feet at Rock Island and is expected to recede. The water temperature is around 34 degrees. Water clarity is good. 

Tailwaters are receiving high fishing pressure, but some ice flows are occurring at times. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-872-4976.

Mississippi River Pool 16
Tailwater stage at Lock and Dam 15 in the Quad Cities has risen close to 2.5 feet since last week to 9.71 feet. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 15. The Marquette St boat ramp is open. Unsafe ice conditions. Walleye - Fair: Look for walleyes in the tailwaters. Use jigs and minnows or troll three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits. Sauger - Fair: Look for saugers in the tailwaters. Try jigs and minnows or troll three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits. Mostly small saugers are being caught. 

Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage is 8.52 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine and is rising. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 16. River stage is 10.18 feet at Muscatine; flood stage is 16 feet. Tailwater fishing for walleye and saugers has been slow. Unsafe ice conditions. Walleye - Slow: Look for walleyes by the dam. Try vertical jigging with minnows or pulling three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits. Sauger - Slow: Use jigs and minnows or pull three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits in the tailwaters. 

Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage is 9.62 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston and is rising. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 17. River stage is 10.29 feet at Keithsburg; flood stage is 14 feet. The gates are out of the water at the Lock and Dam. Unsafe ice conditions. Sauger - Slow: Look for saugers below the dam. Try vertical jigging with minnows or trolling three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits. Walleye - Slow: Look for walleyes below the dam. Try vertical jigging with minnows or trolling three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits.

Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage is 6.38 feet at Lock and Dam 18 and is rising. Flood stage is 10 feet at Lock and Dam 18. River stage is 11.47 feet at Burlington; flood stage is 15 feet. River stage is 526.55 feet at Fort Madison; flood stage is 528 feet. The Tama Beach boat ramp is still frozen in and the parking lot is muddy. We have not received any fishing report information for this pool. Unsafe ice conditions. 

Tailwater stages have risen close to 2.5 feet since last Friday. Main channel water temperature is around 35 degrees. There has been some tailwater fishing this past week with the warm temperatures. Unsafe ice conditions. If you have questions on fishing Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.

 

SOUTHEAST

Big Hollow Lake
Open water and slush on the ice that is still there.

Lake Belva Deer
Unsafe ice; very thin and melting.

Lake Darling
Three days of near 60 degree weather has melted ice. The middle of the lake is wide open; most of the ice left has water on top of it and is more like slush.

Lake Darling District 
Some of the smaller ponds out in the open are nearly ice free now. Rain forecast for this Saturday should melt more of the ice.

Lost Grove Lake
Warm weather is weakening what ice is there. Forecast above freezing temperatures won't build ice.

Pollmiller Park Lake
Unsafe ice and open water.

For more information on the above lake, call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

Coralville Reservoir
The ice is opening back up in the channel area; the remaining ice is unsafe. The lake is at winter pool of 683.4 feet.

Lake Macbride
The lake is 95% ice covered, but the ice is unsafe.

Pleasant Creek Lake
The lake is covered with unsafe ice.

Most lakes/ponds now have skim ice; there is no safe ice in this area. For more information, contact the Lake Macbride Fisheries Station at 319-624-3615.

Lake Miami
Skim ice is forming overnight when cold enough, making fishing difficult.

Lake Sugem
Skim ice is forming in some of the bays. Geese are keeping large areas open.

Lake Wapello
Skim ice is forming at night, making fishing difficult.

Ottumwa Park Pond South
Trout were stocked on Oct. 25th. The pond is covered in skim ice, making fishing difficult. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 904.04 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another water body. Docks have been pulled out for the season and most campgrounds are closed. The bays and coves will start to be covered with skim ice, making fishing difficult.

Red Haw Lake
Skim ice is forming overnight, making fishing difficult.

There has been very little angler activity in the last week. There is no safe ice in the Rathbun district. The district includes Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST

Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake
Ice fishing is not recommended until ice conditions improve. Rainbow Trout - Fair: When ice conditions improve, catch trout 5 to 20 yards off shore using panfish jigs and small jigging spoons tipped with waxworms. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.  

Big Creek Lake

Ice fishing is not recommended until ice conditions improve.

Don Williams Lake
Ice fishing is not recommended until ice conditions improve. Black Crappie - Good: Expect fair to good crappie fishing this winter with many 8.5- to 10-inch fish. Fish suspended fish over the stump covered ridge that extends out from the shoreline across from the boat ramp.

Lake Petocka
Ice fishing is not recommended until ice conditions improve. Rainbow Trout - Good: When ice conditions improve, catch trout with panfish jigs and small jigging spoons tipped with waxworms. Start by fishing close to shore in 3 to 5 feet of water. If no activity, keep moving slightly deeper until you find fish. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.

Ice fishing in Central Iowa is not recommended until conditions improve. For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

Big Lake (Including Gilbert's Pond)
Unsafe ice. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.  

Lake Anita
Warm temperatures have deteriorated ice conditions at Lake Anita.

Littlefield Lake
Littlefield had 4.5 inches of ice. Ice fishing is not recommended with forecast warm temperatures and rain this weekend.

Ice fishing in the southwest Iowa is not recommended. More reports will become available as conditions improve. For more information call the SW District Office at 712-769-2587.

[Rick]

NORTHWEST

Arrowhead Lake
Arrowhead Lake had around 3-4 inches of ice at the boat ramp on Jan. 2. Ice has pulled away from shore in some areas. There has been little fishing activity. 

Black Hawk Lake
As of Jan. 2, there was 5 inches of ice off the Ice House Point boat ramp. There are still open water fishing opportunities at the Fish House and the Inlet Bridge. There is open water and thin ice in the east basin and in the inlet bay. Yellow Perch - Fair: Anglers are catching some perch around Shotgun Hill and the Ice House Point boat ramp. Keeper size perch range from 8- to 12-inches. Black Crappie - Fair: Anglers have picked up some fish using minnows on a small jig.

Black Hawk Pits
There was 3 inches of ice, with some open areas and rotten ice right along shore, on Jan. 2. Ice fishing is not recommended until conditions improve.

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Reports of 5-8 inches of ice on the East side, with more variable conditions elsewhere on the lake and open areas around the big island. Check ice thickness often if you venture out. Use extreme caution, may be some open areas and seams. Anglers report catching perch, walleye, and white bass.

Ice conditions are extremely variable in west central Iowa. Some lakes have open water areas and unsafe ice. Other lakes that are seeing angler activity have 3-8 inches of ice. Use extreme caution; check thickness often and avoid discolored ice. Foot traffic only is recommended in our district at this time. For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Clear Lake
Ice thickness is 6 to 8 inches. Use caution near the rushes. Bluegill - Slow: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm near the edge of vegetation. Yellow Perch - Good: Yellow perch are biting on a variety of baits. Use larger baits and change location to find bigger fish. Walleye - Fair: Try a jigging spoon tipped with a minnow head near the edge of vegetation. Black Crappie – Slow. Yellow Bass - Slow: You have to move around to find fish.

Crystal Lake
Ice thickness is 6 to 8 inches. No fishing activity reported.

Lake Cornelia
Ice thickness is 6 to 7 inches. Yellow Bass - Good: Lot of small fish are being caught.

Lake Smith
Ice thickness is 6 to 8 inches. Anglers are catching small bluegills and a few crappies. Use caution near the aeration hole southeast of the island.

Lower Pine Lake
Ice thickness is 3 to 4 inches. Poor ice condition along the shore is making access dangerous. Ice fishing is not recommended.

Rice Lake
Ice thickness is 6 to 8 inches. Bluegill – Slow. Yellow Perch – Slow.

Silver Lake (Worth)
Ice thickness is 6 to 8 inches.

Upper Pine Lake
Ice fishing is not recommended.

For information on the lakes and rivers in the north central area, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

East Okoboji Lake
Walleye - Fair: Fish the southern basin. Try near Parks Marina. Evening bite is best. Bluegill – Fair.

Lake Pahoja
Bluegill – Good.

Lost Island Lake
Yellow Bass - Good: Some anglers are doing well when they find a school of fish. Yellow Perch – Fair: A few larger fish are being caught with some sorting.  

Scharnberg Pond
Rainbow Trout, stocked on Oct. 26, are still being caught. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.

Spirit Lake
Ice thickness is 7-10 inches. Avoid seams and points. Walleye - Good: Evening and morning bite is best. Use live minnows and jigging baits. Bluegill - Fair: Evening hours are best. Yellow Perch - Good: Best bite is early and late. Recent unsettled weather slowed the bite slightly, but it should pick back up.

Trumbull Lake
Yellow Perch - Slow: A few fish are being caught.

West Okoboji Lake
Use extreme caution on the main lake. Smaller bays have 5-6 inches of ice. Bluegill - Fair: Walleye - Fair: Evening hours are best.

Ice thickness is 5-10 inches on area lakes. Warmer weather has slowed ice formation, but the quality is generally good after recent rains. Some large seams and ridges have become evident; stay away from these areas. Use caution with ATV’s. No vehicle traffic is advised. Avoid inlets and bridges. Aeration systems at Center Lake, Silver Lake (near Lake Park), and Ingham Lake have been started and signs are put up. Stay clear of these systems. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Backwaters and slack water areas are frozen, but may lose ice quickly depending on weather. Use care when crossing areas with current. Check depths often. Anglers are finding fish. Black Crappie - Fair: Find deeper water or off-channel refuges out of current. Use waxworms or spikes. Yellow Perch - Slow: Anglers are finding a few perch mixed in with the crappie.

Decorah District Streams
Stocked fish remain in streams through the winter creating excellent angling opportunities. Trout streams with good flows stay open even during winter. Check our 2020 Winter Community Trout Stocking Schedule to find out when trout may be coming to a community near you. Wear bright orange and be visible to hunters when fishing wildlife management areas. Brown Trout - Good: Try a fly imitating small silvery fish. Feathered spinner baits work well when fished through pools. Rainbow Trout - Good: Use an ultra-light pole and reel for fun action. Try a spinner in eddies and around structure. Brook Trout - Good: With fewer insect hatches, try using flies imitating minnows such as a wholly bugger.

Lake Hendricks
Lake Hendricks has about 4 inches of ice with water sitting on top. Ice is turning dark. Water has a brown tint to it. Open water around the aerator; be careful around this area. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the ice. Black Crappie - Good: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm. Fish are suspended off the bottom. Bluegill - Good: Use a baited hook; gills are sitting closer to the bottom.

Lake Meyer
Lake Meyer has about 6-8 inches of ice. Water is sitting on top of the ice. Ice is turning dark. Use care when going on ice; check depths often. Hit or miss action on panfish. Bluegill - Fair: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm around brush piles. Black Crappie - Fair: Crappie are suspended above brush piles. Baited hooks work best.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Backwaters and slack water areas are ice covered. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on Vernon Springs impoundment when covered with ice. Water is crystal clear. Check ice depths often, especially where there is current.

Volga Lake
Ice on Volga Lake is melted around the edges. Ice fishing is not recommended. Warmer temperatures are melting surface ice, causing extra slippery conditions. Black Crappie - Fair: Use waxworms or spikes fished in brush or rock piles. Bluegill - Fair: Try small bait on small hooks. Gills are small.

Rain last weekend caused many rivers and streams to rise and get muddy. Trout streams cleared. High water levels and increased flows can cause ice conditions to deteriorate very quickly. Area lakes have about 3-5 inches of ice. Use care when around areas with current. Winter returns with temperatures in the low 30's for highs to low 20's for lows. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9
River level is 9.1 feet at Lansing and is expected to fluctuate slightly this week. Ice is variable on backwaters due to warm weather and snow cover. Water temperature is 32 degrees. Walleye - Fair: A lot of smaller fish are being caught. Vertical jigging with twister tails or trolling crankbaits has been successful in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Sauger - Fair: Vertical jigging with twister tails or jig tipped with minnows has had the most success in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Yellow Perch - Fair: Fish for perch through the ice in deeper cuts with some vegetation in backwater areas. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill are biting on waxworms fished through the ice in backwater lakes. 

Mississippi River Pool 10
River level is 617.7 feet at Lynxville. Ice is variable on backwaters due to warm weather and snow cover. Water temperature is 34 degrees. Walleye - Fair: A lot of smaller fish are being caught. Vertical jigging with twister tails or trolling crankbaits has been successful in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Sauger - Fair: Try jigs tipped with a minnow in the tailwaters of the Lock & Dams. Yellow Perch - Fair: Fish for perch through the ice in deeper cuts with some vegetation in backwater areas. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill are biting on waxworms fished through the ice in backwater lakes. 

Mississippi River Pool 11
River level is 9.4 feet at Guttenberg and is expected to fluctuate this week. Ice fishing is not recommended due to warm weather and snow cover. Water temperature is 32 degrees. Walleye - Fair: A lot of smaller fish are being caught. Vertical jigging with twister tails or trolling crankbaits has been successful in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Sauger - Fair: Try jigs tipped with a minnow in the tailwaters of the Lock & Dams. Yellow Perch - Fair: Perch are biting in Sunfish and Mud Lake. Use caution and avoid the creek area at Mud Lake; ice is not safe. Fish in deeper cuts with some vegetation in backwater areas. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice.

Upper Mississippi River levels have risen slightly and are fluctuating this week. Many of the roller gates are now down; this will help stabilize tailwater areas.Use caution if ice fishing due to warmer weather and snow cover making poor ice conditions. Areas of current do not have safe ice. Water temperature is 32 degrees

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
The water level is 9 feet at the Dubuque Lock and Dam and 11.2 feet at the RR bridge. River levels at Dubuque are expected to rise. The water temperature is 34 degrees. Water clarity is good. Limited tailwater angling is happening. Sauger - Slow: Tailwater sauger fishing has most anglers using a jig and minnow. Lots of small sauger and small walleye are being reported. Some ice flows are occurring. Walleye - Fair: Most anglers are pulling crank baits in the tailwaters. Yellow Perch - Good: Yellow perch have shown up in the ice fishing creel. Bluegill - No Report: Most ice is in poor condition limiting ice fishing.

Mississippi River Pool 13
Water level is 10.3 feet at the Bellevue Lock and Dam. Water level will rise. The water temperature is 34 degrees. Water clarity is good. Tailwater fishing is taking place, but periodic ice flows are happening. Backwater ice is nearly non-existent. Sauger - Good: Most anglers are using a jig and minnow. Walleye - Good: Some walleyes are being reported by anglers pulling double Rapalas or a floating jig head with a minnow. Bluegill - No Report: Ice thickness is marginal at best for ice fishing.

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is 9.6 feet at the Fulton Lock and Dam, 12.5 feet at Camanche and 7.2 feet at LeClaire. Water temperature is around 34 degrees. River levels are expected to rise. Tailwater fishing is taking place, but no ice fishing is being reported; ice is unsafe. Walleye - Fair: Some walleyes are being taken on double Rapala rigs. Sauger - Good: Use a jig tipped with a minnow. A few nice sauger have been reported in the past few weeks.

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water level is around 10.5 feet at Rock Island and is expected to rise. The water temperature is around 34 degrees. Water clarity is good. 

Tailwaters are receiving high fishing pressure, but some ice flows are happening at times. Water is rising slightly. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-872-4976.

Mississippi River Pool 16
Tailwater stage at Lock and Dam 15 in the Quad Cities has risen close to 1.5 feet since last week to 10.49 feet. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 15. The Marquette St boat ramp is open. Unsafe ice conditions. Walleye - Fair: Look for walleyes in the tailwaters. Use jigs and minnows or troll three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits. Sauger - Fair: Look for saugers in the tailwaters. Try jigs and minnows or troll three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits. Mostly small saugers are being caught. 

Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage is 9.64 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine. Tailwater stages have risen close to 1.5 feet since last Thursday. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 16. River stage is 11.49 feet at Muscatine; flood stage is 16 feet. Tailwater fishing for walleye and saugers has been slow. The gates are out of the water at the Lock and Dam. Unsafe ice conditions. Walleye - Slow: Look for walleyes by the dam. Try vertical jigging with minnows or pulling three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits. Sauger - Slow: Use jigs and minnows or pull three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits in the tailwaters. 

Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage is 11.13 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston. Tailwater stage has risen close to 1.5 feet since last week. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 17. River stage is 11.45 feet at Keithsburg; flood stage is 14 feet. The gates are out of the water at the Lock and Dam. Unsafe ice conditions. Sauger - Slow: Look for saugers below the dam. Try vertical jigging with minnows or trolling three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits. Walleye - Slow: Look for walleyes below the dam. Try vertical jigging with minnows or trolling three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits.

Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage is 7.84 feet at Lock and Dam 18. Tailwater stage has risen close to 1.5 feet since last week. Flood stage is 10 feet at Lock and Dam 18. River stage is 13.07 feet at Burlington; flood stage is 15 feet. River stage is 527.14 feet at Fort Madison; flood stage is 528 feet. We have not received any fishing report information for this pool. Unsafe ice conditions. 

Tailwater stages have risen close to 1.5 feet since last Thursday. Main channel water temperature is around 35 degrees. There has been some tailwater fishing this past week with the warm temperatures. Unsafe ice conditions. If you have questions on fishing Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.

 

SOUTHEAST

Big Hollow Lake
Open water.

Lake Belva Deer
Mostly open water.

Lake Darling
A very warm weekend, hard rains, and strong winds left the lake ice free on Monday

Lake Darling District 
Most ponds are completely open; a few more protected one have some ice floating around on them. Unsafe ice.

Lost Grove Lake
Rain wrecked what ice was there. Unsafe ice.

Pollmiller Park Lake
Open water.

For more information on the above lake, call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

Coralville Reservoir
The bays have some skim ice, but the main lake is ice free. The lake is at normal winter pool of 683.4 feet.

Lake Macbride
The lake is 90% ice free this week.

Most lakes/ponds are partially to mostly open water this week. Those that have remaining ice, are not safe for travel. For more information, contact the Lake Macbride Fisheries Station at 319-624-3615.

Lake Miami
Skim ice is forming overnight when cold enough, making fishing difficult.

Lake Sugem
Skim ice is forming in some of the bays. Geese are keeping large areas open.

Lake Wapello
Skim ice is forming at night, making fishing difficult.

Ottumwa Park Pond South
Trout were stocked on Oct. 25th. The pond is covered in skim ice, making fishing difficult. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 904.45 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another water body. Docks have been pulled out for the season and most campgrounds are closed. The bays and coves will start to be covered with skim ice, making fishing difficult.

Red Haw Lake
Skim ice is forming overnight, making fishing difficult.

There has been very little angler activity in the last week. There is no safe ice in the Rathbun district. The district includes Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST

Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake
Ice fishing is not recommended until ice conditions improve. Rainbow Trout - Fair: When ice conditions improve, catch trout 5 to 20 yards off shore using panfish jigs and small jigging spoons tipped with waxworms. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.  

Big Creek Lake

Ice fishing is not recommended until ice conditions improve.

Don Williams Lake
Ice fishing is not recommended until ice conditions improve. Black Crappie - Good: Expect fair to good crappie fishing this winter with many 8.5- to 10-inch fish. Fish suspended fish over the stump covered ridge that extends out from the shoreline across from the boat ramp.

Lake Petocka
Ice fishing is not recommended until ice conditions improve. Rainbow Trout - Good: When ice conditions improve, catch trout with panfish jigs and small jigging spoons tipped with waxworms. Start by fishing close to shore in 3 to 5 feet of water. If no activity, keep moving slightly deeper until you find fish. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.

Ice fishing in Central Iowa is not recommended until conditions improve. For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

Lake Anita
Warm temperatures have deteriorated ice conditions at Lake Anita.

Littlefield Lake
Warm temperatures have deteriorated ice conditions at Littlefield Lake.

Prairie Rose Lake
Unsafe ice conditions.

Ice fishing is not recommended in southwest Iowa.

[Rick]

NORTHWEST

Arrowhead Lake
Arrowhead Lake had 4 inches of ice at the boat ramp on Jan. 8. There has been little fishing activity. 

Bacon Creek Lake
The DNR will stock rainbow trout at Bacon Creek Lake at 1:30 p.m. on Jan. 25th. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Use a piece of worm, small minnow, or power bait bite fished under a bobber. Put the bait on a small hook or small and shiny jig.

Black Hawk Lake
As of Jan. 8, there was 5-6 inches of ice off the Ice House Point boat ramp. This area of the lake has the thickest ice. There are open water fishing opportunities at the Fish House on Ice House Point. There is a large area of open water in the east basin and thin ice in the inlet bay. The winter aeration system in Town Bay will be started Jan 16; avoid this area as there will be open water and thin ice. Yellow Perch - Good: Anglers are catching perch around Gunshot Hill and the Ice House Point boat ramp. Keeper size perch range from 8- to 12-inches. The bite has been good, but sorting is needed. Most anglers are using waxworms. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers are picking up 6-9 inch bluegill using waxworms. Most anglers are fishing near the Ice House Point boat ramp and Gunshot Hill.

Black Hawk Pits
There was 3-4 inches of ice near the boat ramp on Jan. 8. Ice fishing is not recommended until conditions improve.

Moorland Pond
The DNR will stock rainbow trout in Moorland Pond at 11 a.m. Jan. 18th. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Use a piece of worm, small minnow, or power bait bite fished under a bobber. Put the bait on a small hook or small and shiny jig.

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Reports of 6-8 inches of ice on the East side, with more variable conditions elsewhere on the lake and open areas around the big island and towards the outlet. Use caution and avoid open areas, seams, and discolored ice. Wear a float coat and have ice picks and rope with you. Anglers report catching perch, walleye, and white bass.

Ice thickness in west central Iowa is 3 to 8 inches. Some lakes have seams and open areas. Use caution, check thickness often, and avoid discolored ice. The winter aeration system in Town Bay of Black Hawk Lake will be started Jan 16; avoid this area as there will be open water and thin ice. For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Beeds Lake
There are areas of open water near the boat ramp and the west end of the lake, as well as along shorelines in certain areas. With melting snow, there will be increased water coming in from Spring Creek and that creates a current through the lake which can to create variable ice conditions.

Clear Lake
Ice thickness is 6 to 8 inches. Use caution near the rushes. Bluegill - Slow: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm near the edge of vegetation. Yellow Perch - Good: Yellow perch are biting on a variety of baits. Use larger baits and change location to find bigger fish. Walleye - Fair: Try a jigging spoon tipped with a minnow head near the edge of vegetation. Black Crappie – Slow. Yellow Bass - Slow: You have to move around to find fish.

Crystal Lake
Ice thickness is 6 to 8 inches. No fishing activity reported.

Lake Cornelia
Ice thickness is 6 to 7 inches. Yellow Bass - Good: Lot of small fish are being caught.

Lake Smith
Ice thickness is 6 to 8 inches. Anglers are catching small bluegills and a few crappies. Use caution near the aeration hole southeast of the island.

Lower Pine Lake
Ice thickness is 4 inches at the boat ramp. There are large areas of open water and some areas of dangerous ice along the shoreline. Ice fishing is not recommended.

Rice Lake
Ice thickness is 6 to 8 inches. Bluegill – Slow. Yellow Perch – Slow.

Silver Lake (Worth)
Ice thickness is 6 to 8 inches.

Upper Pine Lake
Ice fishing is not recommended.

For information on the lakes and rivers in the north central area, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

Center Lake
Ice thickness is 7.5-8.5 inches. The aeration system has been started. Use caution on the west side of the lake, north of the boat ramp. Signs have been put up around the aerator hole.

East Okoboji Lake
Ice thickness is 6 to 8 inches. Bluegill - Good: Sorting is needed, but the bite has been good in the southern section of the lake along the weed line. Try near the trestle and the Hattie Elston Boat Ramp. Use small jigs and wigglers. Walleye - Fair: Fishing near Parks Marina in the evening has been good. Use spoons, jigging raps, or minnows in the early morning or evening. Yellow Perch – Fair. Black Crappie – Good. Yellow Bass – Fair.

Ingham Lake
Ice thickness is 7.5-8.5 inches. The aeration system has been started. Use caution in the southeast side of the lake. Signs have been put up around the aerator hole.

Lost Island Lake
Yellow Perch – Fair. Walleye – Fair.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
Ice thickness is 9-10 inches. The aeration system has been started. Use caution on the east side of the lake. Signs have been placed around the aeration holes.

Spirit Lake
Ice thickness is 9-10 inches. Reports that a vehicle caused a hole at the south boat ramp near the spillway; please avoid this area. Walleye - Good: Fish 1 hour before and after sunrise or sunset. Use spoons or jigging raps tipped with minnow heads n 12-14 feet of water. Also try live minnows. Reports of lots of slot size and bigger fish. Bluegill - Fair: Use wigglers and small jigs in Anglers Bay and Trickles Slough. Yellow Perch - Good: Use minnows and small jigs in Anglers Bay and near Minniwaukon. Best bite is early and late. Black Crappie – Fair.

Trumbull Lake
Yellow Perch - Fair: Size quality is outstanding with some sorting. Use jigs and minnows or wigglers in the main lake.

West Okoboji Lake
West Okoboji ice conditions are variable. Use extreme caution and check ice thickness and conditions regularly. Ice thickness has been up to 7 inches in small bays and thinner on the main lake. Bluegill - Good: Little Emerson Bay is producing a few nice bluegills. Sorting is needed. Walleye - Fair: Fish rocky areas in 18-20 feet of water. Live minnows work best an hour before and after sunset.

Ice thickness is 7.5-10 inches on area lakes. Warmer weather has slowed ice formation, but the quality is generally good. Some large seams and ridges have become evident; stay away from these areas. Use caution with ATV’s. No vehicle traffic is advised. Water flow into and out of the area lakes has caused weak areas around bridges and other constrictions. Aeration systems at Center Lake, Silver Lake (near Lake Park), and Ingham Lake have been started and signs are put up. Stay clear of these systems. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Backwaters and slack water areas have about 4-6 inches of ice. Ice conditions may worsen with warmer temperatures. Use care when crossing areas with current. Check depths often. Anglers are finding fish. Black Crappie - Fair: Find deeper water or off-channel refuges out of current. Use waxworms or spikes. Yellow Perch - Slow: Anglers are finding a few perch mixed in with the crappie. Bluegill - Fair: Find deeper off-channel areas. Spikes or waxworms tipped on a small jig work well. Walleye - Fair: Anglers fishing below dams are finding walleye. Use jigs tipped with a ringworm minnow or crawler. 

Decorah District Streams
Stocked fish remain in streams through the winter creating excellent angling opportunities. Trout streams with good flows stay open even during winter. Check our 2020 Winter Community Trout Stocking Schedule to find out when trout may be coming to a community near you. Wear bright orange and be visible to hunters when fishing wildlife management areas. Brown Trout - Good: Try a fly imitating small silvery fish. Feathered spinner baits work well when fished through pools. Rainbow Trout - Good: Use an ultra-light pole and reel for fun action. Try a spinner in eddies and around structure. Brook Trout - Good: Midges and small mayflies are hatching on warmer sunny days. Use flies imitating insects hatching.

Lake Hendricks
Lake Hendricks has about 4-8 inches of ice. Fish activity has slowed. Open water around the aerator; be careful around this area. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the ice. Black Crappie - Fair: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm. Fish are suspended off the bottom. Bluegill - Fair: Use a baited hook; gills are sitting closer to the bottom.

Lake Meyer
Lake Meyer has about 6-8 inches of ice. Use care when going on ice, especially around the dam. Check ice depths often. Hit or miss action on panfish. Fish are hanging in 10-14 feet of water around brush piles. Bluegill - Good: Activity has picked up. Find gills around brush piles using a small jig tipped with a waxworm. Black Crappie - Slow: Crappie are suspended above brush piles. Baited hooks work best.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Backwaters and slack water areas are ice covered. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on Vernon Springs impoundment when covered with ice. Water is crystal clear. Check ice depths often, especially where there is current.

Volga Lake
Ice conditions are variable on Volga Lake depending on temperatures, but 4-6 inches is common. Use care when going on ice; check depths often. Black Crappie - Fair: Use waxworms or spikes fished in brush or rock piles. Bluegill - Fair: Try small bait on small hooks. Gills are small.

Brief warm-up Thursday with temperatures in the mid-40's dropping through the weekend to the low 20's for highs. Rain and snow possible through the weekend with little accumulation. Open water on most rivers in main channel with backwaters frozen. Use care when around areas with current. Area lakes have about 3-8 inches of ice. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
Anglers are catching some walleye in the Cedar River, particularly between the Waverly and Cedar Falls section of the river. Walleye - Fair: Try a jig and plastic tipped with a minnow in deeper overwintering areas. Look for some depth and off-channel current breaks near eddies.

It's been a very unpredictable winter; ice fishing reports are few to none. Use extreme caution if ice fishing on lakes and ponds. Reports of anglers catching some walleye on the Cedar River this past week. Trout streams remain in excellent condition. Call the N.E. Iowa district office at 563-927-3276 for more information.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9
River level at Lansing has risen to 9.8 feet and is expected to remain high this week. Ice is variable on backwaters due to warm weather and snow cover. Water temperature is 32 degrees. Walleye - Fair: A lot of smaller fish are being caught. Vertical jigging with twister tails or trolling crankbaits has been successful in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Sauger - Fair: Vertical jigging with twister tails or jig tipped with minnows has had the most success in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Yellow Perch - Fair: Fish for perch through the ice in deeper cuts with some vegetation in backwater areas. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill are biting on waxworms fished through the ice in backwater lakes. 

Mississippi River Pool 10
River level at Lynxville has risen to 619.3 feet and is expected to drop slightly. Ice is variable on backwaters due to warm weather and snow cover. Water temperature is 34 degrees. Walleye - Fair: A lot of smaller fish are being caught. Vertical jigging with twister tails or trolling crankbaits has been successful in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Sauger - Fair: Try jigs tipped with a minnow in the tailwaters of the Lock & Dams. Yellow Perch - Fair: Fish for perch through the ice in deeper cuts with some vegetation in backwater areas. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill are biting on waxworms fished through the ice in backwater lakes. 

Mississippi River Pool 11
River level at Guttenberg has risen to 10.9 feet and is expected to remain high this week. Ice fishing is not recommended due to warm weather and snow cover. Water temperature is 32 degrees. Walleye - Fair: A lot of smaller fish are being caught. Vertical jigging with twister tails or trolling crankbaits has been successful in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Sauger - Fair: Try jigs tipped with a minnow in the tailwaters of the Lock & Dams. Yellow Perch - Fair: Perch are biting in Sunfish and Mud Lake. Use caution and avoid the creek area at Mud Lake; ice is not safe. Fish in deeper cuts with some vegetation in backwater areas. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice.

Upper Mississippi River levels are high, but are expected to level off this week. Tailwater areas will be difficult to fish with Lock & Dam gates open and heavy ice flows. Use caution if ice fishing due to warmer weather and snow cover making poor ice conditions. Areas of current do not have safe ice. Water temperature is 32 degrees

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
The water level is 9.8 feet at the Dubuque Lock and Dam and 12 feet at the RR bridge. River levels at Dubuque are expected to recede. The water temperature is 34 degrees. Water clarity is good. Major ice flows are occurring in the tailwater. Sauger - No Report: Anglers report lots of smaller sauger with a few nice sized fish mixed in. Tailwater ice flows are limiting angling. Bluegill - No Report: Ice fishing is not recommended.

Mississippi River Pool 13
Water level is 11 feet at the Bellevue Lock and Dam. Water level will recede. The water temperature is 33 degrees. Water clarity is good. The tailwaters are under heavy ice flows. Backwater ice fishing is not recommended. Sauger - No Report: Anglers report lots of smaller sauger with a few nice sized fish mixed in. Tailwater ice flows are now limiting angling. Bluegill - No Report: Ice fishing is not recommended due to thin ice.

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is 9.8 feet at the Fulton Lock and Dam, 13 feet at Camanche and 7.5 feet at LeClaire. Water temperature is around 33 degrees. River levels are expected to recede. Tailwaters are receiving heavy ice flows; backwater ice fishing is not recommended due to thin ice. Walleye - Fair: Some walleyes are being taken on double Rapala rigs. Sauger - Good: Use a jig tipped with a minnow. A few nice sauger have been reported in the past few weeks.

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water level is around 10.6 feet at Rock Island and is expected to recede. The water temperature is around 33 degrees. Water clarity is good. 

Ice flows are occurring in all tailwaters, limiting angling. Water is receding throughout the district. Backwater ice fishing is not yet recommended due to thin ice. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-872-4976.

Mississippi River Pool 16
Tailwater stage is 10.85 feet at Lock and Dam 15 in the Quad Cities and is forecast to stay steady the next few days. Forecast may change with predicted rain and snow. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 15. The Marquette St boat ramp is open. Unsafe ice conditions. Walleye - Slow: Look for walleyes in the tailwaters. Use jigs and minnows or troll three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits. Sauger - Slow: Look for saugers in the tailwaters. Try jigs and minnows or troll three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits. Mostly small saugers are being caught. 

Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage is 9.93 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine and is forecast to reach 10.2 feet by Friday. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 16. Reports of slow walleye and sauger fishing in the tailwaters. The gates are out of the water at the Lock and Dam. Unsafe ice conditions. Walleye - Slow: Look for walleyes by the dam. Try vertical jigging with minnows or pulling three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits. Sauger - Slow: Use jigs and minnows or pull three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits in the tailwaters. 

Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage is 11.26 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston and is forecast to reach 11.6 feet by Saturday. The river forecast may change with predicted rain and snow.  Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 17. The gates are out of the water at the Lock and Dam. Unsafe ice conditions. Sauger - Slow: Look for saugers below the dam. Try vertical jigging with minnows or trolling three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits. Walleye - Slow: Look for walleyes below the dam. Try vertical jigging with minnows or trolling three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits.

Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage is 7.75 feet at Lock and Dam 18 and is forecast to stay fairly steady the next few days. Flood stage is 10 feet at Lock and Dam 18. River stage is 12.95 feet at Burlington; flood stage is 15 feet. River stage is 527.02 feet at Fort Madison; flood stage is 528 feet. We have not received any fishing report information for this pool. Unsafe ice conditions. 

Tailwater stages have been rising the past few days. Main channel water temperature is around 34 degrees. Tailwater fishing for walleye and saugers has been slow. Unsafe ice conditions. If you have questions on fishing Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.

 

SOUTHEAST

Big Hollow Lake
Open water.

Lake Belva Deer
Mostly open water. A little thin ice is back in the protected bays.

Lake Darling
Some ice has formed at the upper ends of the lake; the rest is still wide open. Forecast rains and wind will take out what little ice there is.

Lake Darling District 
Ponds out in the open are ice free during most of the afternoons. What ice there is on ponds is very thin. Unsafe ice.

Lost Grove Lake
A mix of unsafe thin ice and some open water.

Pollmiller Park Lake
Open water.

For more information on the above lake, call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

Coralville Reservoir
Most of the lake is covered with skim ice. The lake is at normal winter pool of 683.4 feet.

Lake Macbride
The lake is partially covered with skim ice.

Otter Creek Lake
The lake is covered with poor ice; unsafe for travel.

Pleasant Creek Lake
The lake is partially covered with skim or poor ice.

Union Grove Lake
The lake is mostly covered with poor ice.

Most lakes/ponds are partially to mostly covered with skim or poor ice. Ice fishing is unsafe in the Lake Macbride District. For more information, contact the Lake Macbride Fisheries Station at 319-624-3615.

Lake Miami
Skim ice is forming overnight when cold enough, making fishing difficult.

Lake Sugem
Skim ice is forming in some of the bays. Geese are keeping large areas open.

Lake Wapello
Skim ice is forming at night, making fishing difficult.

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 904.15 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another water body. Docks have been pulled out for the season and most campgrounds are closed. The bays and coves will start to be covered with skim ice, making fishing difficult.

Red Haw Lake
Skim ice is forming overnight, making fishing difficult.

There has been very little angler activity in the last week. There is no safe ice in the Rathbun district; most lakes are completely open. The district includes Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST

Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake
Ice fishing is not recommended until ice conditions improve. Rainbow Trout - Fair: When ice conditions improve, catch trout 5 to 20 yards off shore using panfish jigs and small jigging spoons tipped with waxworms. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.  

Big Creek Lake
Large portions of the lake were open water as of Jan. 9.

Don Williams Lake
Ice fishing is not recommended until ice conditions improve. Black Crappie - Good: Expect fair to good crappie fishing this winter with many 8.5- to 10-inch fish. Fish suspended fish over the stump covered ridge that extends out from the shoreline across from the boat ramp.

Lake Petocka
Ice fishing is not recommended until ice conditions improve. Rainbow Trout - Good: When ice conditions improve, catch trout with panfish jigs and small jigging spoons tipped with waxworms. Start by fishing close to shore in 3 to 5 feet of water. If no activity, keep moving slightly deeper until you find fish. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.

Ice fishing in Central Iowa is not recommended until conditions improve. For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

Lake Anita
Warm temperatures have deteriorated ice conditions at Lake Anita.

Littlefield Lake
Warm temperatures have deteriorated ice conditions at Littlefield Lake.

Prairie Rose Lake
Unsafe ice conditions.

Ice fishing is not recommended in southwest Iowa. More reports will become available if conditions improve. 

[Rick]

NORTHWEST

Arrowhead Lake
Ice conditions are improving, but angling activity has been low due to unsafe ice. Check ice thickness often if you venture out.  Use waxworms and minnows near structure to target the larger bluegill and crappie this lake commonly produces.

Bacon Creek Lake
The DNR will stock rainbow trout at Bacon Creek Lake at 1:30 p.m. on Jan. 25th. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Use a piece of worm, small minnow, or power bait fished under a bobber. Put the bait on a small hook or small and shiny jig.

Black Hawk Lake
There is 6-7 inches of ice off the Ice House Point boat ramp. This area of the lake has the thickest ice. There are open water fishing opportunities at the Fish House on Ice House Point. Most of the east basin was open last week and has recently frozen over with thin ice. The winter aeration system in Town Bay is in operation; expect open water and thin ice in Town Bay. Yellow Perch - Fair: Anglers are catching perch around Gunshot Hill and the Ice House Point boat ramp. Keeper size perch range from 8- to 12-inches. Waxworms and small minnows work well. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers are picking up 6-9 inch bluegill using waxworms. Most anglers are fishing near the Ice House Point boat ramp and Gunshot Hill.

Moorland Pond
The DNR will stock rainbow trout in Moorland Pond this Saturday, Jan. 18th at 11 a.m. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Use a piece of worm, small minnow, or power bait fished under a bobber. Put the bait on a small hook or small and shiny jig.

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Ice thickness is variable.  Reports of 7-10 inches of ice in the northwest area; much of the southeast area of the lake was open and has recently frozen over so expect thin ice on some areas. Use caution and avoid open areas, seams, and discolored ice. Wear a float coat and have ice picks and rope with you. Anglers are catching perch, walleye, white bass and channel catfish.

Ice thickness in west central Iowa is 3 to 10 inches. Some lakes have open seams and thin areas that were open last week and have recently frozen over. Use caution, check thickness often, and avoid discolored ice. There is open water and thin ice in Town Bay of Black Hawk Lake from the aeration system.  For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Clear Lake
Ice thickness is 7 to 9 inches. Bluegill - Slow: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm near the edge of vegetation. Yellow Perch - Good: Yellow perch are biting on a variety of baits. Use larger baits and change location to find bigger fish. Walleye - Fair: Try a jigging spoon tipped with a minnow head near the edge of vegetation. The best bite is during low light periods. Black Crappie – Slow: Use a jig tipped with a waxworm on the edge of vegetation. Yellow Bass - Slow: Try a small spoon tipped with cut bait or several spikes. You have to move around to find fish.

Crystal Lake
Ice thickness is 7 to 9 inches. No fishing activity reported.

Lake Cornelia
Ice thickness is 7 to 8 inches. Yellow Bass - Good: Lot of small fish are being caught.

Lower Pine Lake
Ice thickness is 6 inches at the boat ramp. There is still significant open water north and east of the island.  No fishing activity reported.    

Rice Lake
Ice thickness is 7 to 9 inches. Bluegill – Slow. Yellow Perch – Slow: Use small jigs tipped with a waxworm. Walleye – Slow. 

Silver Lake (Worth)
Ice thickness is 7 to 9 inches.

Upper Pine Lake
Ice thickness is 4 inches at the boat ramp. No fishing activity reported.

For information on the lakes and rivers in the north central area, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

Center Lake
Ice thickness is 9-13 inches. The aeration system has been started. Use caution on the west side of the lake, north of the boat ramp. Signs are up around the aerator hole.

East Okoboji Lake
Ice thickness is 9 to 12 inches. Bluegill - Good: Sorting is needed, but the bite has been good in the southern section of the lake along the weed line. Try near the trestle and the Hattie Elston Boat Ramp. Use small jigs and wigglers. Walleye - Fair: Fishing near Parks Marina in the evening has been good. Use spoons, jigging raps or minnows in the early morning or evening. Yellow Perch – Fair. Black Crappie – Good. Yellow Bass – Fair.

Ingham Lake
Ice thickness is 7-13 inches. The aeration system has been started. Use caution in the southeast side of the lake and off of the northern boat ramp. Signs are up around the aerator hole.

Lost Island Lake
Ice thickness is around 12 inches. Yellow Perch – Fair. Walleye – Fair.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
Ice thickness is 13 inches. The aeration system has been started. Use caution on the east side of the lake. Signs are up around the aeration holes.

Spirit Lake
Ice thickness is 13-15 inches. Walleye - Good: Fish 1 hour before and after sunrise or sunset. Use spoons or jigging raps tipped with minnow heads in 12-14 feet of water. Also try live minnows. Reports of lots of slot size and bigger fish. Bluegill - Fair: Use wigglers and small jigs in Anglers Bay and Trickles Slough. Yellow Perch - Good: Use minnows and small jigs in Anglers Bay and near Minniwaukon. Best bite is early and late. Black Crappie – Fair.

Trumbull Lake
Yellow Perch - Fair: Size quality is outstanding with some sorting. Use jigs and minnows or wigglers in the main lake.

West Okoboji Lake
West Okoboji ice conditions are variable. Beware of heaves at Atwell and Gull Point; don't drive over heaves/seams. Ice thickness has been up to 12 inches in small bays and thinner on the main lake. Bluegill - Good: Little Emerson Bay is producing a few nice bluegills. Sorting is needed. Walleye - Fair: Fish rocky areas in 18-20 feet of water. Live minnows work best an hour before and after sunset.

Ice thickness is 7.5-13 inches on area lakes. Ice conditions have improved with recent low temperatures. Some large seams and ridges have become evident; stay away from these areas. Use caution with ATV’s. No vehicle traffic is advised. Water flow into and out of the area lakes has caused weak areas around bridges and other constrictions. Aeration systems at Center Lake, Silver Lake (near Lake Park), and Ingham Lake have been started and signs are up. Stay clear of these systems. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Backwaters and slack water areas have about 4-6 inches of ice. Four to 5 inches of snow fell early in the week with more predicted for the weekend. Ice conditions may worsen with warmer temperatures. Use care when crossing areas with current. Check depths often. Anglers are finding fish. Black Crappie - Fair: Find deeper water or off-channel refuges out of current. Use waxworms or spikes. Yellow Perch - Slow: Anglers are finding a few perch mixed in with the crappie. Bluegill - Fair: Find deeper off-channel areas. Spikes or waxworms tipped on a small jig work well. Walleye - Fair: Anglers fishing below dams are finding walleye. Use jigs tipped with a ringworm minnow or crawler. 

Decorah District Streams
Parking areas in wildlife management areas are not plowed. Use care when parking on the roadside. Trout streams with good flows stay open even during winter. Check our 2020 Winter Community Trout Stocking Schedule to find out when trout may be coming to a community near you. Brown Trout - Good: Try a fly imitating small silvery fish. Feathered spinner baits work well when fished through pools. Rainbow Trout - Good: Fish are actively hitting the surface early afternoon. Use an ultra-light pole and reel for fun action. Try a spinner in eddies and around structure. Brook Trout - Good: Midges and small mayflies are hatching on warmer sunny days. Use flies imitating insects hatching.

Lake Hendricks
Lake Hendricks has about 4-8 inches of ice. Four to 5 inches of snow fell early in the week, with more to come this weekend. Fish activity has slowed. Open water around the aerator; be careful around this area. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the ice. Black Crappie - Fair: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm. Fish are suspended off the bottom. A variety of sizes are being caught. Bluegill - Fair: Use a baited hook; gills are sitting closer to the bottom. Nine to 11 inch fish common. 

Lake Meyer
Lake Meyer has about 6-8 inches of ice. Three to 4 inches of snow fell early in the week, with more to come this weekend. Use care when going on ice, especially around the dam. Check ice depths often. Hit or miss action on panfish. Fish are hanging in 10-14 feet of water around brush piles. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers are marking a lot of fish, but few bites. Find gills around brush piles using a small jig tipped with a waxworm. Black Crappie - Slow: Crappie are suspended above brush piles. Baited hooks work best.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Backwaters and slack water areas are ice covered. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on Vernon Springs impoundment when covered with ice. Water is crystal clear. Check ice depths often, especially where there is current.

Volga Lake
Ice conditions are variable on Volga Lake depending on temperatures, but 4-6 inches is common. Three to 5 inches of snow fell in the area, with more to come this weekend. Use care when going on ice; check ice depths often. Black Crappie - Fair: Use waxworms or spikes fished in brush or rock piles. Bluegill - Fair: Try small bait on small hooks. Gills are small.

Winter is here. Snow is possible through the weekend with variable amounts. Area lakes have about 3-8 inches of ice. Open water on most rivers in main channel with backwaters frozen. Use care when around areas with current. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

Casey Lake (aka Hickory Hills Lake)
A few reports of anglers ice fishing on Casey Lake. Best ice conditions on the lake are near the dam area. Bluegill - Fair: Find sunken fish structure near the dam. Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm just off of the bottom; electronics are a bonus to find fish. Black Crappie - Fair: Find sunken fish structure near the dam. Try an ice jig tipped with a waxworm just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

George Wyth Lake
There has been ice fishing activity on the lake. Reports of 4 to 6 inches of good ice cover. Use extreme caution, especially with the snow cover and upcoming winter storm. Bluegill - Fair: Find sunken fish structure; use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm just off of the bottom. Black Crappie - Fair: Find sunken fish structure. Try an ice jig tipped with a waxworm just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

North Prairie Lake
Anglers are catching a few trout. Rainbow Trout - Fair: Try fishing jigs tipped with a waxworm or vertically jigging shiny spoons.

There are no reports on the interior rivers; they are currently freezing over. Ice conditions should vastly improve over the next week with the freezing cold temperatures.  Use extreme caution on lakes and ponds, especially with the snow cover. Trout streams remain in excellent condition. Call the N.E. Iowa district office at 563-927-3276 for more information.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9
River level is 9.8 feet at Lansing and is expected to remain stable near this level. Ice is around 6 inches in protected areas. Predicted cold weather should strengthen ice, but heavy snow could insulate areas; use caution near shorelines and areas with current. Yellow Perch - Fair: Reports of nice-sized perch from Pool 9 backwaters. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill are biting on waxworms fished through the ice in backwater lakes. 

Mississippi River Pool 10
River level is 17.2 feet at Lynxville and is expected to remain stable near this level. Ice is around 6 inches in protected areas. Predicted cold weather should strengthen ice, but heavy snow could insulate areas; use caution near shorelines and areas with current.  Walleye - Fair: A lot of smaller fish are being caught. Vertical jigging with twister tails or trolling crankbaits has been successful in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Sauger - Fair: Try jigs tipped with a minnow in the tailwaters of the Lock & Dams. Yellow Perch - Fair: Reports of nice-sized perch from Pool 10 backwaters. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill are biting on waxworms fished through the ice in backwater lakes. 

Mississippi River Pool 11
River level is 9.8 feet at Guttenberg and is expected to remain stable near this level. The DNR ramp has iced in and the city ramp may be iced in this weekend. Ice is around 6 inches in protected areas. Predicted cold weather should strengthen ice, but heavy snow could insulate areas; use caution near shorelines and areas with current. Walleye - Fair: A lot of smaller fish are being caught. Vertical jigging with twister tails or trolling crankbaits has been successful in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Sauger - Fair: Try jigs tipped with a minnow in the tailwaters of the Lock & Dams. Yellow Perch - Fair: Perch are biting in Sunfish and Mud Lake. Use caution and avoid the creek area at Mud Lake; ice is not safe. Fish in deeper cuts with some vegetation in backwater areas. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice.

Water levels have fallen and started to stabilize. Gates are back down at the Lock and Dams, but with expected snow and cold weather ramps may become frozen in soon. Protected backwaters areas have around 6 inches of ice, but thickness can vary and many areas may have unsafe ice. Predicted cold weather should strengthen ice, but heavy snow could insulate areas of thin ice; use caution near shorelines and areas with current.

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
The water level is 8 feet at the Dubuque Lock and Dam and 10.3 feet at the RR bridge. River levels at Dubuque are expected to hold steady. The water temperature is 33 degrees. Water clarity is good. Major ice flows are occurring in the tailwater; the tailwater may lock in tight. Sauger - No Report: Anglers report lots of smaller sauger with a few nice-sized fish mixed in. Tailwater ice flows are limiting angling. Bluegill - No Report: Conditions are improving; use caution.

Mississippi River Pool 13
Water level is 9 feet at the Bellevue Lock and Dam and is predicted to hold steady. The water temperature is 33 degrees. Water clarity is good. The tailwaters are under heavy ice flows and may lock in this week. Backwater ice fishing is improving; use caution. Sauger - No Report: Anglers report lots of smaller sauger with a few nice-sized fish mixed in. Tailwater ice flows are are limiting angling. Bluegill - No Report: Ice fishing conditions are improving; use caution

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is 7.6 feet at the Fulton Lock and Dam, 11.7 feet at Camanche and 6.1 feet at LeClaire. Water temperature is around 33 degrees. River levels are expected to hold steady. Tailwaters are receiving heavy ice flows; backwater ice conditions are unsafe. Walleye - No Report: Some walleyes are being taken on double Rapala rigs. Sauger - No Report: Use a jig tipped with a minnow. A few nice sauger have been reported in the past few weeks. Bluegill - No Report: Backwater ice fishing conditions are marginal, but may improve with the expected cold snap; use caution. 

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water level is around 8.5 feet at Rock Island and is expected to hold steady. The water temperature is around 33 degrees. Water clarity is good. 

Ice flows are occurring in all tailwaters, limiting angling. Some anglers were out this past week. Water level is receding throughout the district and should hold steady. Backwater ice fishing conditions are improving; use caution. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-872-4976.

Mississippi River Pool 16
Tailwater stage is 9.44 feet at Lock and Dam 15 in the Quad Cities and has been falling. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 15. The Marquette St boat ramp is frozen in. Unsafe ice conditions. 

Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage is 8.52 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine and has been falling. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 16. As of Jan. 15th, the ramp at Muscatine was free of ice and the dock was still in. Ramp conditions may change with colder temperatures and snow in the forecast. The gates are back in at the Lock and Dam. Unsafe ice conditions. Walleye - No Report: Look for walleyes by the dam. Try vertical jigging with minnows or pulling three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits. Sauger - No Report: Use jigs and minnows or pull three-way rigs with minnows or stick baits in the tailwaters. 

Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage is 9.85 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston and is falling. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 17. The gates are out of the water at the Lock and Dam. We have not received any tailwater fishing report information this week. Unsafe ice conditions. 

Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage is 6.88 feet at Lock and Dam 18 and is falling. Flood stage is 10 feet at Lock and Dam 18. River stage is 12.14 feet at Burlington; flood stage is 15 feet. River stage is 526.73 feet at Fort Madison; flood stage is 528 feet. We have not received any fishing report information for this pool. Unsafe ice conditions. 

Tailwater stages have been falling the past few days. Main channel water temperature is around 34 degrees. Tailwater fishing for walleye and saugers has been slow. Unsafe ice conditions. If you have questions on fishing Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.

 

SOUTHEAST

Big Hollow Lake
Was completely ice free on Jan. 14; some ice is forming around the edges and in the quiet areas.

Lake Belva Deer
Was nearly ice free earlier in the week. Still large areas of open water.

Lake Darling
This morning, Jan. 16, there was still large areas of open water from one end of the lake to the other.

Lake Darling District Farm Ponds
Most ponds have frozen back over this week, but are still too thin to walk on. Unsafe ice.

Lost Grove Lake
Just getting back to freezing over. Unsafe ice.

Pollmiller Park Lake
Open water.

For more information on the above lake, call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

Coralville Reservoir
Most of the lake is covered with skim ice. The lake is at normal winter pool of 683.4 feet.

Lake Macbride
The lake is mostly covered with skim ice; unsafe ice.

Otter Creek Lake
The lake is covered with poor ice; unsafe ice.

Pleasant Creek Lake
The lake is partially covered in skim ice; unsafe ice.

Union Grove Lake
The lake is mostly covered with poor ice.

Most lakes/ponds are mostly to completely covered with skim or poor ice. Ice fishing is unsafe in the Lake Macbride District. Upcoming snow may hide or insulate ice, making ice conditions hard to see and slow to improve. For more information, contact the Lake Macbride Fisheries Station at 319-624-3615.

Lake Miami
Skim ice has formed recently; the ice is not thick enough to support anglers.

Lake Sugem
Skim ice is forming in some of the bays. Geese are keeping large areas open.

Lake Wapello
Ice has recently formed; the ice is not thick enough to support anglers.

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 904.24 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another water body. Docks have been pulled out for the season and most campgrounds are closed. The bays and coves have started to ice up, but it is not thick enough to support anglers. The main lake area is still open water. 

Red Haw Lake
Ice has started to form with the recent cold weather, but it is not thick enough to support anglers.

There is no safe ice in the Rathbun district; most lakes have skimmed over recently. The district includes Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST

Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake
Rainbow Trout - Fair: Catch trout 5 to 20 yards off shore using panfish jigs and small jigging spoons tipped with waxworms. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.  

Big Creek Lake
There was a small area of open water mid-lake as of Jan. 16. The large area that was open last week is averaging 3 inches. Ice in the coves and the north end averaged 8 inches. 

Don Williams Lake
Black Crappie - Good: Catch 8.5 to 10 inch crappies using glow jigs with waxworms or minnows.  The better bite has been after sunset.  Fish suspended fish over the stump covered ridge that extends out from the shoreline across from the boat ramp.

Hickory Grove Lake
Hickory Grove was pumped dry in the fall to renovate the fishery.  No fishing is available until after the lake is restocked.

Lake Petocka
The next stocking is scheduled for Jan. 25; dependent on safe ice conditions. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Rainbow Trout - Fair: Use panfish jigs and small jigging spoons tipped with waxworms. Start by fishing close to shore in 3 to 5 feet of water. If no activity, keep moving slightly deeper until you find fish.

Ice fishing conditions in Central Iowa continue to improve. Use caution; some larger bodies of water had thin ice and open water as of Jan. 12. For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

Lake Anita
Lake Anita is holding a large number of geese, keeping the north arm of the lake unsafe or open. There was 4 inches of ice in the upper end of the pontoon arm on Jan. 15th.  Bluegill - Fair: A couple anglers caught fish directly south of the fish cleaning station.

Littlefield Lake
Unsafe ice conditions on Jan. 15th. Anglers should be able to fish Littlefield by next week.

Prairie Rose Lake
Prairie Rose is holding a large number of geese keeping ice condition unsafe around the beach area. Conditions should improve; use caution if venturing out.

Ice conditions are improving in the southwest district. Use extreme caution; most district lakes had thin ice or open water in the middle of last week.

[Rick]

IOWA FISHING REPORTS

NORTHWEST

Arrowhead Lake
There was 6 inches of clear ice under 3 inches of cloudy ice off the boat ramp on Jan 23. Conditions are variable; check ice thickness often if you venture out.  Use waxworms and minnows near structure to target the larger bluegill and crappie this lake commonly produces.

Bacon Creek Lake
The DNR will stock rainbow trout at Bacon Creek Lake at 1:30 p.m. on Jan. 25th. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Use a piece of worm, small minnow, or power bait fished under a bobber. Put the bait on a small hook or small and shiny jig.

Black Hawk Lake
There was 11 inches of ice off the Ice House Point boat ramp on Jan 23. This area of the lake currently has the thickest ice. There was 9 inches of ice off the 30 Acres boat ramp at the state campground on the SE part of the lake. Conditions are more variable in the east basin of the lake, there may be thin and open areas; use caution. Snow cover varies from 0 to 15 inches. The winter aeration system in Town Bay is in operation; expect open water and thin ice in Town Bay. Yellow Perch - Fair: Anglers are catching perch around Gunshot Hill and the Ice House Point boat ramp. Keeper-size perch are 8 to 12 inches. Waxworms and small minnows work well. Bluegill - Slow: Most anglers are using waxworms fished near the Ice House Point boat ramp and Gunshot Hill using waxworms.

Black Hawk Pits
There was 5 inches of ice off the boat ramp on Jan 23. Conditions are variable; use caution and check ice thickness often. There are several inches of water and slush on top of the ice.

Brushy Creek Lake
Most fishing activity has been in the northeast arm and around the island. Ice is variable; check ice thickness often. There are open areas in the middle of the lake and around shore near inflows. Expect thinner ice under bridges and anywhere with current. Yellow Perch - Fair: Use waxworms and small minnows. Walleye – Fair. Bluegill - Fair: Use a waxworm or small minnow on a jig fished near structure. Reports of 9 inch keepers.

Moorland Pond
The DNR will stock rainbow trout in Moorland Pond this Saturday, Jan. 24th at noon. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Use a piece of worm, small minnow, or power bait fished under a bobber. Put the bait on a small hook or small and shiny jig.

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Ice thickness is variable from about 6-15 inches, with thinner ice on the east part of the lake and other areas that were open two weeks ago. Use caution and avoid open areas, seams, and discolored ice. Snow cover is variable; bare ice in some areas and 2-3 feet deep drifts in others. Anglers are catching perch, walleye, white bass and channel catfish.

Ice thickness in west central Iowa is 5 to 15 inches. Some lakes have open seams and thinner areas that were open two weeks ago. Use caution, check thickness often, and avoid discolored ice. There is open water and thin ice in Town Bay of Black Hawk Lake from the aeration system.  For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Clear Lake
Ice thickness is 10 to 12 inches. Bluegill - Slow: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm near the edge of vegetation. Yellow Perch - Good: Yellow perch are biting on a variety of baits. Use larger baits and change location to find bigger fish. Walleye - Fair: Try a jigging spoon tipped with a minnow head near the edge of vegetation. The best bite is during low light periods. Black Crappie – Slow: Use a jig tipped with a waxworm on the edge of vegetation. Yellow Bass - Fair: Try a small spoon tipped with cut bait or several waxworms. You have to move around to find fish. White Bass – Slow.

Crystal Lake
Ice thickness is 9 to 11 inches. No fishing activity reported.

Lower Pine Lake
Ice thickness is 10 -11 inches at the boat ramp. Use caution north and east of the island; this ice is new and may not be consistent.  

Rice Lake
Ice thickness is 10 to 12 inches. Bluegill – Fair: Use small jigs tipped with a waxworm. Best bite is late afternoon. Yellow Perch – Slow:Try a small jigging spoon tipped with a waxworm.. Walleye – Slow. 

Silver Lake (Worth)
Ice thickness is 10 to 12 inches. Bluegill – Slow. 

Upper Pine Lake
Ice thickness is 7- 8 inches at the boat ramp.

For information on the lakes and rivers in north central Iowa, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

Center Lake
Ice thickness is 12 to 14 inches. The aeration system has been started. Use caution on the west side of the lake, north of the boat ramp. Signs are up around the aerator hole.

East Okoboji Lake
Ice thickness is 12 to 14 inches. Bluegill - Good: Sorting is needed, but the bite has been good in the southern section of the lake along the weed line. Try near the trestle and the Hattie Elston Boat Ramp. Use small jigs and wigglers. Walleye - Fair: Fishing  has been good near Parks Marina in the evening. Use spoons, jigging raps or minnows in the early morning or evening. Yellow Perch – Fair. Black Crappie – Good. Yellow Bass – Fair.

Ingham Lake
Ice thickness is 10 to 14 inches. The aeration system has been started. Use caution on the southeast side of the lake and off of the northern boat ramp. Signs are up around the aerator hole.

Lost Island Lake
Ice thickness is around 12 inches. Yellow Perch – Fair. Walleye – Fair.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
Ice thickness is 15 inches. The aeration system has been started. Use caution on the east side of the lake. Signs are up around the aeration holes.

Spirit Lake
Ice thickness is 13-15 inches. Walleye - Good: Fish 1 hour before and after sunrise or sunset. Use spoons or jigging raps tipped with minnow heads in 12-14 feet of water. Also try live minnows. Reports of lots of slot size and bigger fish. Bluegill - Fair: Use wigglers and small jigs in Anglers Bay and Trickles Slough. Yellow Perch - Good: Use minnows and small jigs in Anglers Bay and near Minniwaukon. Best bite is early and late. Black Crappie – Fair.

Trumbull Lake
Yellow Perch - Fair: Size quality is outstanding with some sorting. Use jigs and minnows or wigglers in the main lake.

West Okoboji Lake
West Okoboji ice conditions are variable. Beware of heaves at Atwell and Gull Point; don't drive over heaves/seams. Ice thickness has been up to 12 inches in small bays and thinner on the main lake. Bluegill - Good: Little Emerson Bay is producing a few nice bluegills. Sorting is needed. Walleye - Fair: Fish rocky areas in 18-20 feet of water. Live minnows work best 1 hour before and after sunset.

Ice thickness is 10 to 18 inches on area lakes. Large amounts of snow in the recent week have covered up seams and ridges making them less evident. Talk with locals or bait shops to get the latest information before heading out on the ice. Do not travel under bridges and other areas of flow; most of these areas have only recently frozen over. It is Winter Games weekend in the Iowa Great Lakes, so expect lots of people out on the ice. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Backwaters and slack water areas have about 8 to 10 inches of ice with 10 inches snow. Ice conditions may worsen with warmer temperatures. Use care when crossing areas with current. Check depths often. Anglers are finding fish. Black Crappie - Fair: Find deeper water or off-channel refuges out of current. Use waxworms or spikes. Yellow Perch - Slow: Anglers are finding a few perch mixed in with the crappie. Bluegill - Fair: Find deeper off-channel areas. Spikes or waxworms tipped on a small jig work well. Walleye - Fair: Anglers fishing below dams are finding walleye. Use jigs tipped with a ringworm minnow or crawler. 

Decorah District Streams
Trout streams received 8 to 10 inches of snow. Parking areas in wildlife management areas are not plowed. Use care when parking on the roadside. Trout streams with good flows stay open even during winter. Check our 2020 Winter Community Trout Stocking Schedule to find out when trout may be coming to a community near you. Brook Trout - Good: Midges and small mayflies are hatching on warmer sunny days. Use flies imitating insects hatching. Brown Trout - Good: Try a fly imitating small silvery fish. Feathered spinner baits work well when fished through pools. Rainbow Trout - Good: Fish are actively hitting the surface early afternoon. Use an ultra-light pole and reel for fun action. Try a spinner in eddies and around structure. 

Lake Hendricks
Lake Hendricks has about 10 inches of ice with 8 to 10 inches of snow on top. Fish activity has slowed. Open water around the aerator; be careful around this area. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the ice. Black Crappie - Fair: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm. Fish are suspended off the bottom. A variety of sizes are being caught. Bluegill - Fair: Use a baited hook; gills are sitting closer to the bottom. Nine to 11 inch fish are common. 

Lake Meyer
Lake Meyer has 10 to 12 inches of ice with 8 to 10 inches of snow on top. Use care when going on ice, especially around the dam. Check ice depths often. Hit or miss panfish action. Fish are hanging in 10 to 12 feet of water around brush piles. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers are marking a lot of fish, but few bites. Find gills around brush piles using a small jig tipped with a waxworm fished near the bottom. Black Crappie - Slow: Crappie are suspended above brush piles. Baited hooks work best.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Backwaters and slack water areas are ice and snow covered. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on Vernon Springs impoundment when covered with ice. Water is crystal clear. Check ice depths often, especially where there is current.

Volga Lake
Eight to 9 inches ice with 10 inches of snow on top. Use care when going on ice; check ice depths often. Black Crappie - Fair: Use waxworms or spikes fished in brush or rock piles. Bluegill - Fair: Try small bait on small hooks. Gills are small.

Three to 5 inches snow fell Thursday with more possible. Use care on area rivers. Ice thickness varies on waterbodies with current. Area lakes have about 10 inches of ice with snow. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

Casey Lake (aka Hickory Hills Lake)
A few reports of anglers ice fishing on Casey Lake. Best ice conditions on the lake are near the dam area. Bluegill - Fair: Find sunken fish structure near the dam. Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm just off of the bottom; electronics are a bonus to find fish. Black Crappie - Fair: Find sunken fish structure near the dam. Try an ice jig tipped with a waxworm just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

George Wyth Lake
There has been ice fishing activity on the lake. Reports of 4 to 6 inches of good ice cover. Use extreme caution, especially with the snow cover. Bluegill - Fair: Find sunken fish structure; use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm just off of the bottom. Black Crappie - Fair: Find sunken fish structure. Try an ice jig tipped with a waxworm just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

Plainfield
Anglers report only fair catches of panfish on Plainfield Lake this past week. Bluegill - Fair: Find sunken fish structure. Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm just off of the bottom; electronics are a bonus to find fish. Black Crappie - Fair: Find sunken fish structure. Try an ice jig tipped with a waxworm just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

There have been no reports on the interior rivers as they are mostly frozen over. Ice conditions have improved on some areas with the freezing cold temperatures last week. Use extreme caution on lakes and ponds, especially with the snow cover. Trout streams remain in excellent condition. Call the N.E. Iowa district office at 563-927-3276 for more information.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9
River level is 9.9 feet at Lansing and is expected to remain stable near this level. Ice is around 6 to 10 inches in protected areas. Predicted cold weather should strengthen ice, but heavy snow could insulate areas; use caution near shorelines and areas with current. Yellow Perch - Fair: Reports of nice-sized perch from Pool 9 backwaters. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill are biting on waxworms fished through the ice in backwater lakes. 

Mississippi River Pool 10
River level is 18.6 feet at Lynxville and is expected to remain stable near this level. Ice is around 6 to 10 inches in protected areas. Predicted cold weather should strengthen ice, but heavy snow could insulate areas; use caution near shorelines and areas with current. Ice on Johnson Slough at Sny Magil is still not safe with thickness varying to less than 2 inches. Walleye - Fair: A lot of smaller fish are being caught. Vertical jigging with twister tails or trolling crankbaits has been successful in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Sauger - Fair: Try jigs tipped with a minnow in the tailwaters of the Lock & Dams. Yellow Perch - Fair: Reports of nice-sized perch from Pool 10 backwaters. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill are biting on waxworms fished through the ice in backwater lakes. 

Mississippi River Pool 11
River level is 10.2 feet at Guttenberg and is expected to remain stable near this level. The DNR ramp has iced in and the city ramp may be iced in this weekend. Ice is around 6 inches in protected areas. Predicted cold weather should strengthen ice, but heavy snow could insulate areas; use caution near shorelines and areas with current. Walleye - Fair: A lot of smaller fish are being caught. Vertical jigging with twister tails or trolling crankbaits has been successful in Lock and Dams tailwaters. Sauger - Fair: Try jigs tipped with a minnow in the tailwaters of the Lock & Dams. Yellow Perch - Fair: Perch are biting in Sunfish and Mud Lake. Use caution and avoid the creek area at Mud Lake; ice is not safe. Fish in deeper cuts with some vegetation in backwater areas. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice.

Water levels are fluctuating this week up to a foot higher. Gates are back down at the Lock and Dams. Colder weather will strengthen ice, but heavy snow could insulate areas of thin ice; use caution near shorelines and areas with current.

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
The water level is 8.5 feet at the Dubuque Lock and Dam and 11.1 feet at the RR bridge. River levels at Dubuque are expected to rise. The water temperature is 32.5 degrees. Water clarity is good. The tailwater is fairly free of flowing ice, but boat ramps are iced in. Sauger - No Report: Anglers report lots of smaller sauger with a few nice-sized fish mixed in. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills are abundant, but not very aggressive. Use light equipment, small jigs and rod tips to detect small hits. Lots of sorting needed, but you can find some nice-sized gills. Black Crappie - Fair: A few incidental crappies are being caught when ice fishing for bluegills.

Mississippi River Pool 13
Water level is 10.1 feet at the Bellevue Lock and Dam and is rising. The water temperature is 32.5 degrees. Water clarity is good. The tailwaters are ice free, but the Bellevue City ramp has ice chunks floating around the ramp. Backwater ice fishing is improving; use caution. The popular ice fishing parking lot at Spring Lake in Illinois is closed this winter due to construction.  Sauger - No Report: Anglers report lots of smaller sauger with a few nice-sized fish mixed in. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills are abundant, but not very aggressive. Use light equipment, small jigs and rod tips to detect small hits. Lots of sorting needed, but you can find some nice-sized gills. Yellow Perch - Fair: Anglers are catching a yellow perch or two when fishing for bluegill. Some anglers targeted good numbers of yellow perch in early ice, but now are only catching a few each trip. Black Crappie - Fair: A few incidental crappies are being caught when ice fishing for bluegills.

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is 6.9 feet at the Fulton Lock and Dam, 10.8 feet at Camanche and 5.6 feet at LeClaire. Water temperature is around 32.5 degrees. River levels are expected to hold steady. The tailwater has been ice free, but finding a boat open boat ramp may be difficult. Sauger - No Report: Early winter catches were decent with lots of smaller sauger reported along with some real nice walleye and sauger taken. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills are abundant, but not very aggressive. Use light equipment, small jigs and rod tips to detect small hits. Lots of sorting needed, but you can find some nice-sized gills.  Black Crappie - Fair: A few incidental crappies are being caught when ice fishing for bluegills.

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water level is around 8.5 feet at Rock Island and is expected to rise. The water temperature is around 33 degrees. Water clarity is good. 

Tailwater ice flows were limited this week but it will take some work to launch in icy tailwater ramps. Water levels are rising throughout the district. Backwater ice fishing conditions are improving; use caution, especially in snow covered sloughs. Reported backwater ice depths range from 2 to 7 inches. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-872-4976.

Mississippi River Pool 16
Tailwater stage is 13.03 feet at Lock and Dam 15 in the Quad Cities and has been rising. Tailwater stage has risen close to 5 feet since last weekend. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 15. The Marquette St boat ramp is frozen in. We have not received any ice condition or ice fishing reports for this pool. Tailwater stages have been fluctuating this past week which could create unsafe ice conditions, especially along the shorelines. 

Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage is 7.14 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine and has risen close to 2 feet since last weekend. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 16. The ramps at Muscatine are snow covered and frozen in. We have not received any ice condition or ice fishing reports for this pool. River levels have been fluctuating which may create some unsafe ice conditions, especially along the shorelines. 

Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage is 8.40 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston and has been rising the past few days. Tailwater stages have risen close to 2 feet since last weekend. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 17. We have not received any tailwater fishing report information this week. The Toolsboro ramp is iced in. We have not received any ice fishing or ice condition reports for this pool this week.

Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage is 6.47 feet at Lock and Dam 18 and has risen close to 2 feet since last weekend. Flood stage is 10 feet at Lock and Dam 18. River stage is 12.21 feet at Burlington; flood stage is 15 feet. River stage is 526.42 feet at Fort Madison; flood stage is 528 feet. We have not received any fishing report information for this pool. 

Tailwater stages have been rising the past few days. Main channel water temperature is around 32 degrees. We have not received any ice condition reports for our Pools. River levels have been fluctuating the past few days which could create for unsafe ice conditions, especially along the shorelines. If you have questions on fishing Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.

 

SOUTHEAST

Big Hollow Lake
Unsafe ice.  

Lake Belva Deer
Unsafe ice. The lake was nearly ice free last week and has been slow to make ice this week.

Lake Darling
Unsafe ice. The lake didn't freeze over until Monday. The weather just hasn't been good to making ice; temperature was just below freezing last night.

Lake Darling District Farm Ponds
Ice fishing is not recommended. Some ponds are probably thick enough, especially if they were out of the wind last week. Use extreme caution and drill lots of test hole. 

Lost Grove Lake
Ice fishing is not recommended. Some ice is thick enough, but snow is hiding a lot of thin areas.

For more information on the above lake, call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

Cedar River (La Porte City to Cedar Rapids)
The backwaters in Benton County have about 7 inches of ice. Bluegill – Fair. Black Crappie – Slow. Largemouth Bass – Slow.

Central Park Lake
Ice thickness 8 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Most fish are around 5 inches. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Most fish are around 11 inches.

Central Park Pond
Ice thickness is 6 to 7 inches.

Coralville Reservoir
The lake is froze over, but the channel has poor ice; travel is not recommended. The protected areas out of the current and wind have 4 to 6 inches of ice. The lake is at normal winter pool of 683.4 feet.

Diamond Lake
The last of the lake froze up on Jan. 20. Ice thickness is 2 to 6 inches; use extreme caution. The ice fishing derby scheduled for this Saturday, Jan. 25 has been cancelled due to poor ice conditions.

Green Castle Lake
No ice or fishing reports are available. Anglers have been on the ice.

Hannen Lake
Ice thickness is 5 to 6 inches.

Iowa Lake (Iowa Co.)
Ice is 9 inches at the boat ramp; out farther is 7 inches. The east end of the lake may have less ice; check ice conditions as you go.

Lake Macbride
The access areas have 6 to 7 inches of ice; much of the lake has 5 to 6 inches. There are areas of deeper water that froze up late that may have poor ice. Use caution and check often if you stray from the usual areas. Bluegill – Slow. Black Crappie – Slow.

Otter Creek Lake
Anglers have been out on the ice, but thickness is unknown.

Pleasant Creek Lake
The west end of the lake has 5 to 6 inches of ice; avoid the main lake, it has poor ice. Off the main ramp, the ice goes from 5 to 6 inches of ice to 1 to 2 inches very quickly. Bluegill - Fair: Some fish are being caught at the west end of the lake.

Rodgers Park Lake
Ice thickness is 5 to 6 inches.

Sand Lake
No ice or fishing reports are available. Anglers have been on the ice.

Union Grove Lake
The lake is ice covered, but ice thickness is unknown. A couple ice angles have been out; check ice conditions before you venture out.

Some lakes have safe ice, while others are extremely variable. Always check ice thickness and use caution when venturing out. For more information, contact the Lake Macbride Fisheries Station at 319-624-3615.

Lake Miami
The lake iced up last weekend. Use caution if venturing out.

Lake Sugem
Ice formed last weekend, but the ice is variable in thickness. Use caution if venturing out. Be aware of areas that geese have been keeping open.

Lake Wapello
The lake iced up last weekend; use caution if venturing out. There is thin ice or open water out in front of the lodge area due to geese keeping the water open.

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 904.32 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another water body. Docks have been pulled out for the season and most campgrounds are closed. The ice is variable on the lake; use caution if venturing out. The bays and coves should have thicker ice than the main lake area.

Red Haw Lake
Ice formed last weekend. Use caution; the ice thickness is variable.

Ice thickness is variable; use caution. Most lakes froze up last weekend. The district includes Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST

Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake
Avoid the south half of the north pit due to thin ice. There is an average of 6 inches of ice along the north shore by the parking lot. Rainbow Trout - Fair: Catch trout 5 to 20 yards off shore using panfish jigs and small jigging spoons tipped with waxworms. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.  

Big Creek Lake
The large area that was open water a couple weeks ago is averaging 6 inches of ice. Ice is 10 to 12 inches in the coves and the north end.

Don Williams Lake
Black Crappie - Good: Catch 8.5 to 10 inch crappies using glow jigs with waxworms or minnows. The better bite has been after sunset.  Fish suspended fish over the stump covered ridge that extends out from the shoreline across from the boat ramp.

Hickory Grove Lake
Hickory Grove was pumped dry in the fall to renovate the fishery.  No fishing is available until after the lake is restocked.

Lake Petocka
The trout stocking and family fishing event this Saturday, Jan. 25 has been canceled due to unsafe ice conditions for a concentrated crowd. The trout will be stocked sometime next week. There is 5 to 8 inches of adequate ice for anglers. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Rainbow Trout - Good: Use panfish jigs and small jigging spoons tipped with waxworms. The best bite for previously stocked trout has been fishing suspended fish out deeper.  

Ice fishing conditions in Central Iowa are fair to good. Use caution on larger lakes that have some areas of thin ice. For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

Big Lake (Including Gilbert's Pond)
On Jan. 24th, 1000 rainbow trout will be stocked into Big Lake. A kids event is not planned. The lake has 6 inches of ice. Rainbow Trout - Good: Any type of small spinner or minnow under a bobber will catch rainbow trout.

Lake Anita
The open water created by the geese has shrunk to a small area. Use caution north of the beach. Anglers report 5 to 7 inches of ice on most of the lake. Bluegill - Fair: A few bluegills are being caught south of the campground. Black Crappie - Fair: Anglers report early and late in the day is best for 9 inch black crappies.

Lake Manawa
Ice is variable. Some activity is taking place around the dredge cuts. Black Crappie - Slow: A few reports of fair crappie fishing in the dredge cuts late in the afternoon.

Littlefield Lake
Littlefield has a consistent 8 inches of ice. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers are finding bluegills in the cedar tree piles. Sorting is needed for larger fish.

Orient Lake
Fall fisheries surveys showed good numbers of crappies and bluegills in Orient. No reports are available at this time. Black Crappie - No Report: Black crappies will average 9 inches. Bluegill - No Report: Bluegills will average 8 inches.

Prairie Rose Lake
Ice conditions have improved. Most of the fishing activity is taking place east of the beach on the north side of the lake. Bluegill - Slow: The fishing should improve with a more stable weather pattern. A few large bluegills are being picked up east of the beach around the rock piles.

Ice conditions are fair in southwest Iowa with reports ranging from 4 to 9 inches. For more information call the SW District Office at 712-769-2587.

Lake Icaria
Variable ice conditions up to 6 inches. Areas of open water near the dam. Black Crappie - Fair: Catch crappies up to 10 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm or minnow fished along cedar tree brush piles. Walleye - Slow: Try jigs tipped with a minnow fished along the roadbed for walleye of all sizes.

Little River Watershed Lake
Large areas of open water along the campground and main ramp areas.

Summit Lake
Ice thickness is variable from 3 to 5 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Catch bluegill of all sizes up to 8.5 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm fished near cedar tree brush piles.

Three Mile Lake
Variable ice thickness up to 6 inches. Limited ice fishing activity observed this week.

Ice conditions for the Mount Ayr district lakes is variable, ranging from 3 to 6 inches. Check ice thickness often when venturing out. Geese are keeping some areas of open water at some district lakes. For more information, contact the Mount Ayr Fisheries office at 641-464-3108.

[Rick]

IOWA FISHING REPORTS

NORTHWEST

Arrowhead Lake
Conditions are variable; check ice thickness often if you venture out. Use waxworms and minnows near structure to target the larger bluegill and crappie this lake commonly produces.

Bacon Creek Lake
The DNR stocked rainbow trout at Bacon Creek Lake on Jan. 25th. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Use a piece of worm, small minnow, or power bait fished under a bobber. Put the bait on a small hook or small and shiny jig.

Black Hawk Lake
Areas around Ice House Point boat ramp and just north of Gunshot Hill currently has the thickest ice. Conditions are more variable in the east basin of the lake, there may be thin and open areas; use caution. The winter aeration system in Town Bay is in operation; expect open water and thin ice in Town Bay. Yellow Perch - Fair: Anglers are catching perch around Gunshot Hill and the Ice House Point boat ramp. Keeper-size perch are 8 to 12 inches. Waxworms and small minnows work well. Bluegill - Slow: Most anglers are using waxworms fished near the Ice House Point boat ramp and Gunshot Hill. Channel Catfish - Fair: Anglers have picked up catfish off the rock pile north of Cottonwood Point. Black Crappie - Fair: Anglers have had luck in the marina and off the rock pile near Gunshot Hill.

Black Hawk Pits
Conditions are variable; use caution and check ice thickness often. 

Brushy Creek Lake
Most fishing activity has been in the northeast arm and around the island. Ice is variable; check ice thickness often. There are open areas in the middle of the lake and around shore near inflows. Expect thinner ice under bridges and anywhere with current. Yellow Perch - Fair: Use waxworms and small minnows. Walleye – Fair. Bluegill - Fair: Use a waxworm or small minnow on a jig fished near structure. Reports of 9 inch keepers.

Moorland Pond
The DNR stocked rainbow trout in Moorland Pond on Jan. 24th. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Use a piece of worm, small minnow, or power bait fished under a bobber. Put the bait on a small hook or small and shiny jig.

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Ice thickness is 6-15 inches, with thinner ice on the east part of the lake and other areas that were open recently. Use caution and avoid open areas near the island, seams, and discolored ice. Snow cover is variable. Anglers are catching perch, walleye, white bass and channel catfish.

Ice thickness in west central Iowa is 5 to 15 inches. Some lakes have open seams and thinner areas. Use caution, check thickness often, and avoid discolored ice. There is open water and thin ice in Town Bay of Black Hawk Lake from the aeration system.  For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Clear Lake
Ice thickness is 11 to 15 inches. Use caution near the aeration systems. Bluegill - Slow: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm near the edge of vegetation. Yellow Perch - Good: Yellow perch are biting on a variety of baits. Use larger baits and change location to find bigger fish. Walleye - Fair: Try a jigging spoon tipped with a minnow head near the edge of vegetation. The best bite is during low light periods. Black Crappie – Slow: Use a jig tipped with a waxworm on the edge of vegetation. Yellow Bass - Fair: Try a small spoon tipped with cut bait or several waxworms. You have to move around to find fish. 

Crystal Lake
Ice thickness is 11 to 15 inches. 

Eldred Sherwood Lake
Ice thickness is 11 to 15 inches. Bluegill - Slow: Use small jigs tipped with a waxworm. Best bite is late afternoon.

Interstate Park Lake
Ice thickness is 12 inches. No fishing activity reported.

Lake Smith
Ice thickness is 10 to 12 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Best bite is from around 3:30 p.m. until dark.

Rice Lake
Ice thickness is 11 to 15 inches. Bluegill – Fair: Use small jigs tipped with a waxworm. Best bite is late afternoon. Yellow Perch – Slow:Try a small jigging spoon tipped with a waxworm.. Walleye – Slow. 

Silver Lake (Worth)
Ice thickness is 11 to 15 inches. Bluegill – Slow. 

Upper Pine Lake
Ice thickness is 7- 8 inches at the boat ramp.

For information on the lakes and rivers in north central Iowa, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

Center Lake
Ice thickness is 14 to 16 inches. The aeration system has been started. Use caution on the west side of the lake, north of the boat ramp. Signs are up around the aerator hole.

East Okoboji Lake
Ice thickness is 14 to 15 inches. Bluegill - Good: Sorting is needed, but the bite has been good in the southern section of the lake along the weed line. Try near the trestle and the Hattie Elston Boat Ramp. Use small jigs and wigglers. Walleye - Fair: Fishing  has been good near Parks Marina in the evening. Use spoons, jigging raps or minnows in the early morning or evening. Yellow Perch – Fair. Black Crappie – Good. Yellow Bass – Fair.

Ingham Lake
Ice thickness is 12 to 16 inches. The aeration system has been started. Use caution on the southeast side of the lake and off of the northern boat ramp. Signs are up around the aerator hole.

Lost Island Lake
Ice thickness is around 12 inches. Yellow Perch – Fair. Walleye – Fair.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
Ice thickness is 15 to 18 inches. The aeration system has been started. Use caution on the east side of the lake. Signs are up around the aeration holes.

Spirit Lake
Ice thickness is 15 to 18 inches. Walleye - Good: Fish 1 hour before and after sunrise or sunset. Use spoons or jigging raps tipped with minnow heads in 12-14 feet of water. Also try live minnows. Reports of lots of slot size and bigger fish. Bluegill - Fair: Use wigglers and small jigs in Anglers Bay and Trickles Slough. Yellow Perch - Good: Use minnows and small jigs in Anglers Bay and near Minniwaukon. Best bite is early and late. Be prepared to move around until you get on top of them. Black Crappie – Fair.

Trumbull Lake
Yellow Perch - Fair: Size quality is outstanding with some sorting. Use jigs and minnows or wigglers in the main lake.

West Okoboji Lake
West Okoboji ice conditions are variable. Beware of heaves at Atwell and Gull Point; don't drive over heaves/seams. Ice thickness has been up to 14 inches in small bays and thinner on the main lake. Bluegill - Good: Little Emerson Bay is producing a few nice bluegills. Sorting is needed. Walleye - Fair: Fish rocky areas in 18-20 feet of water. Live minnows work best 1 hour before and after sunset.

Ice thickness is 12 to 18 inches on area lakes. Large amounts of snow have covered up seams and ridges making them less evident. The snow has made it harder to travel across the lake. Do not travel under bridges and other areas of flow; most of these areas have only recently frozen over. Aeration systems at Center Lake, Silver Lake (near Lake Park), and Ingham Lake have been started and signs are up; stay clear of these systems. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Backwaters and slack water areas have about 8 to 10 inches of ice with 5 inches of snow. Ice conditions may worsen with warmer temperatures. Use care when crossing areas with current. Check ice depths often. Anglers are finding fish. Black Crappie - Fair: Find deeper water or off-channel refuges out of current. Use waxworms or spikes. Yellow Perch - Slow: Anglers are finding a few perch mixed in with the crappie. Bluegill - Fair: Find deeper off-channel areas. Spikes or waxworms tipped on a small jig work well. Walleye - Fair: Anglers fishing below dams are finding walleye. Use jigs tipped with a ringworm, minnow, or crawler. 

Decorah District Streams
Parking areas in wildlife management areas are not plowed. Heavy use areas should be packed enough for anglers to get around. Use care when parking on the roadside. Trout streams are clear and remain ice free. Brook Trout - Good: Midges and small mayflies are hatching on warmer sunny days. Use flies imitating insects hatching. Brown Trout - Good: Try a fly imitating small silvery fish. Feathered spinner baits work well when fished through pools. Rainbow Trout - Good: Fish are actively hitting the surface early afternoon. Use an ultra-light pole and reel for fun action. Try a spinner in eddies and around structure. 

Lake Hendricks
Lake Hendricks has about 10 inches of ice with 6 inches of snow on top. Fish activity has slowed. Open water around the aerator; be careful around this area. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the ice. Black Crappie - Fair: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm. Fish are suspended off the bottom. A variety of sizes are being caught. Bluegill - Fair: Use a baited hook; gills are sitting closer to the bottom. Nine to 11 inch fish are common. 

Lake Meyer
Lake Meyer has 10 inches of ice with 4 to 5 inches of snow on top. Use care when going on ice, especially around the dam. Check ice depths often. Hit or miss panfish action. Fish are hanging in 8 to 10 feet of water around brush piles. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers are marking a lot of fish, but few bites. Find gills around brush piles using a small jig tipped with a waxworm fished near the bottom. Morning bite is best. Black Crappie - Slow: Crappie are suspended above brush piles. Baited hooks work best. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Catching bass while fishing for panfish.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Backwaters and slack water areas are ice and snow covered. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on Vernon Springs impoundment when covered with ice. Water is crystal clear. Check ice depths often, especially where there is current.

Volga Lake
Eight to 9 inches ice with 10 inches of snow on top. Use care when going on ice; check ice depths often. Black Crappie - Fair: Use waxworms or spikes fished in brush or rock piles. Bluegill - Fair: Try small bait on small hooks. Gills are small.

Chance of snow Thursday and Friday. Temperatures will warm through Sunday. Great time to take advantage of the weather. Use care on area rivers. Ice thickness varies on waterbodies with current. Area lakes have about 10 inches of ice with snow on top. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

Alice Wyth Lake
Anglers are catching a few crappie and bluegill. Bluegill - Fair: Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom. Black Crappie - Fair: Try an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

Big Woods Lake
Anglers are catching a few crappie. Black Crappie - Fair: Find sunken fish structure. Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

Casey Lake (aka Hickory Hills Lake)
A few reports of anglers ice fishing on Casey Lake. Best ice conditions on the lake are near the dam area. Bluegill - Fair: Find sunken fish structure near the dam. Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom; electronics are a bonus to find fish. Black Crappie - Fair: Find sunken fish structure near the dam. Try an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
Backwater areas of the Cedar River are producing some crappie. Use extreme caution when venturing out onto river ice. Black Crappie - Fair: Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

George Wyth Lake
There has been ice fishing activity on the lake. Reports of 4 to 6 inches of good ice. Use extreme caution, especially with the snow cover. Bluegill - Fair: Find sunken fish structure; use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom. Black Crappie - Fair: Find sunken fish structure. Try an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow. Northern Pike - Fair: Try setting up tip-up rigs with shiners for bait.

Martens Lake
Anglers are catching a few bluegill and crappie. Access is available crossing the reservoir from the north side of the lake; use caution. Bluegill - Fair: Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom. Black Crappie - Fair: Try an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

Plainfield
Anglers report fair catches of panfish on Plainfield Lake this past week. Best bite is first light in morning and last hour before sunset. Bluegill - Fair: Find sunken fish structure. Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom; electronics are a bonus to find fish. Black Crappie - Fair: Find sunken fish structure. Try an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

Ice anglers are getting out now with the more favorable ice conditions on area lakes and ponds. Use extreme caution on lakes and ponds, especially with the snow cover. Reports have been fair for both bluegill and crappie. Trout streams remain in excellent condition. Call the N.E. Iowa district office at 563-927-3276 for more information.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9
River level is 10.2 feet at Lansing. Protected backwaters have around 8 to 10 inches of ice. Ice conditions have deteriorated with a rise in river levels causing water on top of the ice and along shorelines. Yellow Perch - Good: Reports of nice-sized perch from Pool 9 backwaters. Black Crappie - Fair: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill are biting on waxworms fished through the ice in backwater lakes. Northern Pike - Good: Tip-up anglers are having success with shiners or suckers for larger pike. Largemouth Bass - Good: Try a lively shiner on a tip-up for some big bass through the ice.

Mississippi River Pool 10
River level at Lynxville rose to 620.2 feet and is expected to recede this week. Protected backwaters have around 8 to 10 inches of ice. Ice conditions have deteriorated with a rise in river levels causing water on top of the ice and along shorelines. Sny Magill road is flooded. Ice on Johnson Slough has deteriorated. Yellow Perch - Good: Reports of nice-sized perch from Pool 10 backwaters. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill are biting on waxworms fished through the ice in backwater lakes. Northern Pike - Good: Tip-up anglers are having success with shiners or suckers for larger pike. Largemouth Bass - Good: Try a lively shiner on a tip-up for some big bass through the ice.

Mississippi River Pool 11
River level at Guttenberg has risen to 11.8 feet this week. Boat ramps are all iced in. Protected backwaters have around 8 to 10 inches of ice. Ice conditions have deteriorated with an rise in river levels causing water on top of the ice and along shorelines. Yellow Perch - Fair: Perch are biting in Sunfish and Mud Lake. Use caution and avoid the creek area at Mud Lake; ice is not safe. Fish in deeper cuts with some vegetation in backwater areas. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice. Northern Pike - Good: Tip-up anglers are having success with shiners or suckers for larger pike. Largemouth Bass - Good: Try a lively shiner on a tip-up for some big bass through the ice. 

Upper Mississippi River levels are expected to gradually recede after bumping up several feet last week. Many areas have water over the ice. Avoid poor ice conditions on shorelines and areas with current.

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
The water level is 10.3 feet at the Dubuque Lock and Dam and 12.7 feet at the RR bridge. River levels at Dubuque are expected to crest. The water temperature is 32.5 degrees. Water clarity is good. The tailwater is fairly free of flowing ice, but boat ramps are iced in. Sauger - Fair: It takes some work to get into the tailwaters, but they are mostly open and can be fished. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills are abundant, but not very aggressive. Use light equipment, small jigs and rod tips to detect small hits. Lots of sorting needed, but you can find some nice-sized gills. Yellow Perch - Fair: Anglers are catching a yellow perch or two when bluegill fishing. Some exceptional yellow perch creels were seen in early ice. Now anglers are only be catching a few each trip. Black Crappie - Fair: A few incidental crappies are being caught when ice fishing for bluegills. Reports of some nice crappies. 

Mississippi River Pool 13
Water level is 11.9 feet at the Bellevue Lock and Dam and is expected to crest. The water temperature is 32.5 degrees. Water clarity is good. The tailwater is ice free. The city ramp has been open to boat launching. Lots of ice angling taking place, but anglers are reporting slush and water on top of the ice due to the recent river raise. The popular ice fishing parking lot at Spring Lake in Illinois is closed this winter due to construction.  Sauger - Fair: Anglers report lots of smaller sauger with a few nice-sized fish mixed in. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills are abundant, but not very aggressive. Use light equipment, small jigs and rod tips to detect small hits. Lots of sorting needed, but you can find some nice-sized gills. Yellow Perch - Fair: Anglers are catching a yellow perch or two when fishing for bluegill. Some anglers targeted good numbers of yellow perch in early ice, but now are only catching a few each trip. Black Crappie - Fair: A few incidental crappies are being caught when ice fishing for bluegills.

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is 8.5 feet at the Fulton Lock and Dam, 11.7 feet at Camanche and 6.2 feet at LeClaire. Water temperature is around 32.5 degrees. River levels are rising and expected to crest this week. The tailwater has been ice free, but finding an open boat ramp may be difficult. Ice anglers report slush and water on top of the ice from the river rise. Sauger - Fair: Early winter catches were decent with lots of smaller sauger reported along with some nice walleye and sauger taken. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills are abundant, but not very aggressive. Use light equipment, small jigs and rod tips to detect small hits. Lots of sorting needed, but you can find some nice-sized gills.  Black Crappie - Fair: A few incidental crappies are being caught when ice fishing for bluegills.

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water level is around 9.3 feet at Rock Island and has been falling. The water temperature is around 33 degrees. Water clarity is good. 

Tailwaters are open, but ramps may have ice on them. Water levels fluctuated greatly this week. Backwater ice fishing conditions are variable; use caution, especially in snow-covered sloughs. Reported backwater ice depths are 2 to 7 inches. Water is often on top of the ice. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-872-4976.

Mississippi River Pool 16
Tailwater stage is 9.31 feet at Lock and Dam 15 in the Quad Cities and has been fluctuating. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 15. The Marquette Street boat ramp is open. A little bit of flow ice is coming down the channel. We have not received tailwater fishing reports for walleye and saugers. Unsafe ice conditions. Fluctuating river levels have made unsafe ice conditions, especially along the shorelines.  

Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage is 9.19 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine and has risen close to 1 foot this week. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 16. As of Jan. 30th, the ramp at Muscatine was open, but the dock has been pulled out. Some flow ice was coming down the channel, but the gates were still in. We have not received any tailwater fishing reports for walleye and sauger. Unsafe ice conditions. Rising river levels have created unsafe ice conditions, especially along the shorelines.

Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage is 10.49 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston and has been rising the past few days. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 17. The gates are out of the water. The boat ramp at Toolsboro is still iced in. Unsafe ice conditions. The rising river levels have created unsafe ice conditions, especially along the shorelines.

Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage is 8.7 feet at Lock and Dam 18 and has been rising the past few days. Flood stage is 10 feet at Lock and Dam 18. River stage is 13.97 feet at Burlington; flood stage is 15 feet. River stage is 527.51 feet at Fort Madison; flood stage is 528 feet. 
Unsafe ice conditions. The rising river levels have created unsafe ice conditions.

Tailwater stages have been rising the past few days. Main channel water temperature is around 32 degrees. Unsafe ice conditions. River levels have been fluctuating, creating unsafe ice conditions especially along the shorelines. If you have questions on fishing Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.

 

SOUTHEAST

Big Hollow Lake
Four inches of good ice and an inch of frozen slush on top in the boat ramp bay. Use caution; there are a few places that don’t make good ice.  Black Crappie - Slow: Picking up some nice crappies just around the corner from the boat ramp bay out in the main lake.

Lake Belva Deer
Finally got to a fairly uniform layer of 4+ inches of clear ice with some frozen slush ice on top. Bluegill - Slow: Find bluegill near the bottom.

Lake Darling
The ice is thickening with recent below freezing days. Black Crappie - Slow: While we just got good ice, the fish are acting like it’s getting into late ice.

Lake Darling District Farm Ponds
Most of the Park ponds have good ice on them, but a couple (#9 and 14) had open water spots last weekend. Bluegill - Fair: Pick the right pond at the right time and you can do pretty well on nice-sized bluegills.

Lost Grove Lake
It's been cold enough that the thin spots are gone. Always drill test holes before you go out. Black Crappie - Fair: Anglers are picking up some nice eater-sized crappies, but it’s a couple here and a couple there type of action.

For more information on the above lake, call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

Cedar River (La Porte City to Cedar Rapids)
The backwaters in Benton County have about 7 inches of ice. Bluegill – Fair. Black Crappie – Slow. Largemouth Bass – Slow.

Central Park Lake
Ice thickness 6 to 8 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Most fish are around 4-6 inches. Use jigs tipped with waxies or plastics. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Most fish are around 8-12 inches.

Central Park Pond
Ice thickness is 6 to 7 inches.

Coralville Reservoir
The lake is froze over, but the channel has poor ice; travel is not recommended. The protected areas out of the current and wind have 4 to 6 inches of ice. The lake is at normal winter pool of 683.4 feet.

Diamond Lake
Ice thickness is 2 to 6 inches; use extreme caution. 

Green Castle Lake
No ice or fishing reports are available. Anglers have been on the ice.

Hannen Lake
Ice thickness is 5 to 6 inches.

Iowa Lake (Iowa Co.)
Ice is 9 inches at the boat ramp; out farther is 7 inches. The east end of the lake may have less ice; check ice conditions as you go.

Lake Macbride
Much of the lake has 5 to 8 inches of ice; areas of deeper water that froze up late may have poor ice. Use caution and check often if you stray from the usual areas. Bluegill –Fair: Use small jigs/waxies fished over brush or rock pile. Size is marginal at best. Black Crappie - Slow: The bite has been tough. Isolated brush or stumps has been best. Best bite is early and late in the day.

Otter Creek Lake
Ice thickness is 6 to 7 inches. Bluegill - Slow: Use jigs and waxies. Black Crappie - Slow: Try jigs and waxies.

Pleasant Creek Lake
The lake has 3 to 8 inches of ice, depending on where you are. The west end of the lake has the best ice; the east end may not be safe for travel. Bluegill - Fair: Some fish are being caught at the west end of the lake. Try around brush or jetties near shore. Yellow Perch - Slow: Some smaller fish are being caught.

Rodgers Park Lake
Ice thickness is 5 to 6 inches.

Sand Lake
No ice or fishing reports are available. Anglers have been on the ice.

Union Grove Lake
Most of the lake has 4 to 6 inches of ice. The aeration system has been turned on; there is open water at the south end of the lake.

Some lakes have safe ice, while others are extremely variable. Always check ice thickness and use caution when venturing out. For more information, contact the Lake Macbride Fisheries Station at 319-624-3615.

Albia Lower Reservoir
Anglers are catching some bluegill around the submerged structure. Use caution; ice thickness has been variable in the district.

Lake Miami
Few reports this week; anglers are just starting to get out now with better ice conditions. Ice conditions are variable.

Lake Sugem
Ice formed recently and is variable in thickness; use caution if venturing out. Geese are keeping areas open; be aware of these areas.

Lake Wapello
The lake iced up recently; use caution if venturing out. There is thin ice or open water out in front of the lodge area due to geese keeping the water open. Anglers are catching some bluegills.

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 904.44 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another water body. Docks have been pulled out for the season and most campgrounds are closed. The ice is variable on the lake; use caution if venturing out. Use caution in areas inside and next to docks at the Rathbun Marina and the Honey Creek Resort as they are using deicing equipment this winter.

Red Haw Lake
Ice formed recently; use caution. Ice thickness is variable.

Ice thickness is variable; use caution. Most lakes froze up recently. Lakes have about 4 inches of snow and slush on top of the ice. The district includes Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST

Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake
The trout stocking and family fishing event scheduled for Feb. 1 has been postponed to February 8, pending safe ice conditions. The 8 inches of ice was not enough for a large, concentrated event. Rainbow Trout - Fair: Catch previously stocked trout 5 to 20 yards off shore with panfish jigs and small jigging spoons tipped with waxworms.

Big Creek Lake
As of Jan. 28, the large area that was open water a couple weeks ago is averaging 6 to 8 inches. Ice is 10 to 12 inches in the coves and the north end.

Don Williams Lake
Black Crappie - Slow: Use minnows or glow jigs tipped with waxworms fished in the late afternoon and just after dark. The bite has become more difficult over the past week.

Hickory Grove Lake
Hickory Grove was pumped dry in the fall to renovate the fishery.  No fishing is available until after the lake is restocked.

Lake Petocka
Trout were stocked on Jan. 28. There is 8 inches of good ice for anglers. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Rainbow Trout - Excellent: Use panfish jigs and small jigging spoons tipped with waxworms. The best bite for previously stocked trout has been fishing suspended fish out deeper. Find the newly stocked trout may in shallower water.

Ice fishing conditions in Central Iowa are fair to good. Use caution on lakes south of I80 where areas of thin ice have been persistent. For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

Big Lake (Including Gilbert's Pond)
Ice thickness is 6 inches. On Jan. 24th, 1000 rainbow trout were stocked into Big Lake. Rainbow Trout - Good: Any type of small spinner or minnow under a bobber will catch rainbow trout.

Lake Anita
The open water created by the geese has shrunk to a small area. Use caution north of the beach. Anglers report 5 to 7 inches of ice on most of the lake. Bluegill - Slow: A few bluegills are being caught south of the campground. Black Crappie - Fair: Anglers report early and late in the day is best for 9 inch black crappies.

Lake Manawa
Ice is variable. Some activity is taking place around the dredge cuts. Black Crappie - Slow: A few reports of fair crappie fishing in the dredge cuts late in the afternoon.

Littlefield Lake
Littlefield has a consistent 9 inches of ice. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers are finding bluegills in the cedar tree piles. Sorting is needed for larger fish.

Orient Lake
Fall fisheries surveys showed good numbers of crappies and bluegills. No reports are available at this time. Black Crappie - No Report: Black crappies will average 9 inches. Bluegill - No Report: Bluegills will average 8 inches.

Prairie Rose Lake
Ice thickness is 7 to 9 inches. Most of the fishing activity is taking place east of the beach on the north side of the lake. Bluegill - Slow: The fishing should improve with a more stable weather pattern. A few large bluegills are being picked up east of the beach around the rock piles.

Ice conditions are variable in the Southwest District. Lakes in the northern part of the district have 9 inches of ice, but lakes in the southern part range from unsafe to 6 inches. For more information call the SW District Office at 712-769-2587.

Green Valley Lake
Variable ice thickness up to 8 inches. Black Crappie - Good: Catch crappie up to 9 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm or minnow fished near cedar tree brush piles. Bluegill - Good: Catch bluegill up to 7.5 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm fished near cedar tree brush piles.

Lake Icaria
Variable ice conditions up to 7 inches. Areas of open water near the dam. Black Crappie - Fair: Catch crappies up to 10 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm or minnow fished along cedar tree brush piles. Walleye - Fair: Try jigs tipped with a minnow fished along the roadbed for walleye of all sizes.

Little River Watershed Lake
Ice thickness is variable up to 7 inches. Areas of open water along the campground and main ramp areas.

Summit Lake
Ice thickness is variable from 4 to 8 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Catch bluegill of all sizes up to 8.5 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm fished near cedar tree brush piles.

Three Mile Lake
Variable ice thickness up to 7 inches. Area of open water near the main campground point. Bluegill - Slow: Catch bluegill up to 8 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm fished along the roadbed.

Twelve Mile Creek Lake
Variable ice thickness up to 8 inches. Bluegill - Slow: Catch bluegill up to 8.5 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm fished along the roadbed or cedar tree brush piles. Black Crappie - Fair: Catch crappie up to 10 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm or minnow fished along the roadbed or cedar tree brush piles. Walleye - Slow: Try jigs tipped with a minnow fished along the roadbed for walleye of all sizes.

Ice conditions for the Mount Ayr district lakes is variable, ranging from 4 to 6 inches. Check ice thickness often when venturing out. Geese are keeping some areas of open water at some district lakes.

[Rick]

NORTHWEST

Arrowhead Lake
Ice thickness is 8 inches near the boat ramp. Conditions are variable; check ice thickness often if you venture out. Use waxworms and minnows near structure to target the larger bluegill and crappie this lake commonly produces.

Bacon Creek Lake
The DNR stocked rainbow trout at Bacon Creek Lake on Jan. 25th. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Use a piece of worm, small minnow, or power bait fished under a bobber. Put the bait on a small hook or small and shiny jig.

Black Hawk Lake
There is around 12 inches of ice off of Ice House Point boat ramp and 11 inches of ice off the 30 Acres boat ramp at the state campground on the SE part of the lake. Conditions are more variable in the east basin of the lake. The winter aeration system in Town Bay is in operation; expect open water and thin ice in Town Bay. Yellow Perch - Fair: Anglers are catching perch around Gunshot Hill, the Ice House Point boat ramp, and in the marina. Keeper-size perch are 8 to 10 inches; sorting is needed. Waxworms and small minnows work well. Bluegill - Fair: Most anglers are using waxworms fished near the Ice House Point boat ramp and the rock piles off Gunshot Hill and Cottonwood Point. Channel Catfish - Fair: Anglers have picked up catfish off the rock pile north of Cottonwood Point and in the east basin; use waxworms.. Black Crappie - Fair: Try minnows and waxworms fished in the marina and off the rock pile near Gunshot Hill. Most fish are 8-10 inches; sorting is needed. Walleye - Slow. 

Black Hawk Pits
There was 6 inches of ice off the boat ramp on Feb 6. Conditions are variable; use caution and check ice thickness often. Black Crappie - Fair: Use waxworms. 

Brushy Creek Lake
Most fishing activity has been in the northeast arm and around the island. Ice is variable; check ice thickness often. There are open areas in the middle of the lake and around shore near inflows. Expect thinner ice under bridges and anywhere with current. Yellow Perch - Fair: Use waxworms and small minnows. Walleye – Fair. Bluegill - Fair: Use a waxworm or small minnow on a jig fished near structure. Reports of 9 inch keepers.

Moorland Pond
Rainbow Trout - Fair: Use a piece of worm, small minnow, or power bait fished under a bobber. Put the bait on a small hook or small and shiny jig. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Ice thickness is 6-15 inches, with thinner ice on the east part of the lake. Use caution and avoid open areas near the island. Snow cover is variable. The bite has slowed down; anglers are catching perch, crappie, walleye and white bass.

Ice thickness in west central Iowa is 5 to 15 inches. Some lakes have open areas and seams. Use caution; check thickness often. There is open water and thin ice in Town Bay of Black Hawk Lake from the aeration system.  For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Clear Lake
Ice thickness is 12 to 15 inches. Use caution near the aeration systems. Bluegill - Slow: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm near the edge of vegetation. Yellow Perch - Good: Yellow perch are biting on a variety of baits. Use larger baits and change location to find bigger fish. Walleye - Fair: Try a jigging spoon tipped with a minnow head near the edge of vegetation. The best bite is during low light periods. Black Crappie – Slow: Use a jig tipped with a waxworm on the edge of vegetation. Yellow Bass - Slow: Try a small spoon tipped with cut bait or several waxworms. You have to move around to find fish. 

Crystal Lake
Ice thickness is 12 to 15 inches. 

Interstate Park Lake
Ice thickness is 12 inches. No fishing activity reported.

Lower Pine Lake
Use extra caution directly north and east of the Island; an area of poor ice was reported. A few reports of anglers catching keeper-size perch and crappie, but most report catching only small bluegill. Bluegill – Fair.

Rice Lake
Ice thickness is 11 to 15 inches. Bluegill – Fair: Use small jigs tipped with a waxworm. Best bite is late afternoon. Yellow Perch – Slow:Try a small jigging spoon tipped with a waxworm.. Walleye – Slow. 

Silver Lake (Worth)
Ice thickness is 11 to 15 inches. Bluegill – Slow. 

Upper Pine Lake
Anglers are catching small bluegill and perch.

For information on the lakes and rivers in north central Iowa, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

Center Lake
Ice thickness is 14 to 16 inches. The aeration system has been started. Use caution on the west side of the lake, north of the boat ramp. Signs are up around the aerator hole.

East Okoboji Lake
Ice thickness is 14 to 15 inches. Bluegill - Good: Sorting is needed, but the bite has been good in the southern section of the lake along the weed line. Try near the trestle and the Hattie Elston Boat Ramp. Use small jigs and wigglers. Walleye - Fair: Fishing  has been good near Parks Marina in the evening. Use spoons, jigging raps or minnows in the early morning or evening. Yellow Perch – Fair. Black Crappie – Good. Yellow Bass – Fair.

Ingham Lake
Ice thickness is 12 to 16 inches. The aeration system has been started. Use caution on the southeast side of the lake and off of the northern boat ramp. Signs are up around the aerator hole.

Lost Island Lake
Ice thickness is around 12 inches. Yellow Perch – Fair. Walleye – Fair.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
Ice thickness is 15 to 18 inches. The aeration system has been started. Use caution on the east side of the lake. Signs are up around the aeration holes.

Spirit Lake
Ice thickness is 15 to 18 inches. Walleye - Good: Fish 1 hour before and after sunrise or sunset. Use spoons or jigging raps tipped with minnow heads in 12-14 feet of water. Also try live minnows. Reports of lots of slot size and bigger fish. Bluegill - Fair: Use wigglers and small jigs in Anglers Bay and Trickles Slough. Yellow Perch - Good: Use minnows and small jigs in Anglers Bay and near Minniwaukon. Best bite is early and late. Be prepared to move around until you get on top of them. Black Crappie – Fair.

Trumbull Lake
Yellow Perch - Fair: Size quality is outstanding with some sorting. Use jigs and minnows or wigglers in the main lake.

West Okoboji Lake
West Okoboji ice conditions are variable. Beware of heaves at Atwell and Gull Point; don't drive over heaves/seams. Ice thickness has been up to 14 inches in small bays and thinner on the main lake. Bluegill - Good: Little Emerson Bay is producing a few nice bluegills. Sorting is needed. Walleye - Fair: Fish rocky areas in 18-20 feet of water. Live minnows work best 1 hour before and after sunset.

Ice thickness is 12 to 18 inches on area lakes. Ice conditions are generally good; be weary of holes caused by springs/methane release. Do not travel under bridges and other areas of flow; most of these areas have little to no ice. Aeration systems at Center Lake, Silver Lake (near Lake Park), and Ingham Lake have been started and signs are up; stay clear of these systems. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Backwaters and slack water areas have about 5 to 9 inches of ice with 5 inches of snow. Ice conditions may change with warmer temperatures. Use care when crossing areas with current. Check ice depths often. Anglers are finding fish. Black Crappie - Fair: Find deeper water or off-channel refuges out of current. Use waxworms or spikes. Yellow Perch - Slow: Anglers are finding a few perch mixed in with the crappie. Bluegill - Fair: Find deeper off-channel areas. Spikes or waxworms tipped on a small jig work well. Walleye - Fair: Anglers fishing below dams are finding walleye. Use jigs tipped with a ringworm, minnow, or crawler. 

Decorah District Streams
Parking lots in wildlife management areas are not plowed. Heavy use areas should be packed enough for anglers to get around. Use care when parking on the roadside. Trout streams are clear and remain ice free. Brook Trout - Good: Midges and small mayflies are hatching on warmer sunny days. Use flies imitating insects hatching. Brown Trout - Good: Try a fly imitating small silvery fish. Feathered spinner baits work well when fished through pools. Rainbow Trout - Good: Fish are actively hitting the surface early afternoon. Use an ultra-light pole and reel for fun action. Try a spinner in eddies and around structure. 

Lake Hendricks
Lake Hendricks has about 14 inches of ice with 6 inches of snow on top. Fish activity has slowed. Open water around the aerator; be careful around this area. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the ice. Black Crappie - Fair: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm. Fish are suspended off the bottom. A variety of sizes are being caught. Bluegill - Fair: Use a baited hook; gills are sitting closer to the bottom. Nine to 11 inch fish are common. 

Lake Meyer
Lake Meyer has 10 inches of ice with 4 to 5 inches of snow on top. Use care when going on ice, especially around the dam. Check ice depths often. Hit or miss panfish action. Fish are hanging in 8 to 10 feet of water around brush piles. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers are marking a lot of fish, but few bites. Find gills around brush piles using a small jig tipped with a waxworm fished near the bottom. Morning bite is best. Black Crappie - Slow: Crappie are suspended above brush piles. Baited hooks work best. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Catching bass while fishing for panfish.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Backwaters and slack water areas are ice and snow covered. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on Vernon Springs impoundment when covered with ice. Water is crystal clear. Check ice depths often, especially where there is current. Walleye - Slow: Anglers are catching walleye in off-channel areas and drop-offs using minnows.

Volga Lake
Ten inches of ice with some snow on top. Use care when going on ice; check ice depths often. Fish action remains spotty. Black Crappie - Fair: Use waxworms or spikes fished in brush or rock piles. Bluegill - Fair: Try small bait on small hooks. Gills are small.

Chance of snow through the weekend; greater chance begins Saturday night. Temperatures are in the upper 20's to low 30's. Use care on area rivers. Ice thickness varies on waterbodies with current. Area lakes have about 10 inches of ice with snow on top. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

Alice Wyth Lake
Anglers are catching a few crappie and bluegill. Bluegill - Fair: Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom. Black Crappie - Fair: Try an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

Big Woods Lake
Anglers are catching a few crappie. Black Crappie - Fair: Find sunken fish structure. Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

Casey Lake (aka Hickory Hills Lake)
Best ice conditions on the lake are near the dam area. Bluegill - Excellent: Quality size bluegill are being caught in the early morning hours in 10 to 11 feet of water or deeper and on structure. Find sunken fish structure near the dam. Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom; electronics are a bonus to find fish. Black Crappie - Fair: Find sunken fish structure near the dam. Try an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
Backwater areas of the Cedar River are producing some crappie. Use extreme caution when venturing out onto river ice. Black Crappie - Fair: Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

George Wyth Lake
There has been ice fishing activity on the lake. Reports of 4 to 6 inches of good ice. Use extreme caution, especially with the snow cover. Bluegill - Fair: Find sunken fish structure; use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom. Black Crappie - Fair: Find sunken fish structure. Try an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow. Northern Pike - Fair: Try setting up tip-up rigs with shiners for bait.

Martens Lake
Anglers are catching a few bluegill and crappie; reports are best for northern pike. Access is available crossing the reservoir from the north side of the lake; use caution. Bluegill - Fair: Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom. Black Crappie - Fair: Try an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow. Northern Pike - Good: Use a live shiner or chub under a tip-up rig. 

Plainfield
Anglers report fair catches of panfish on Plainfield Lake this past week. Best bite is first light in morning and last hour before sunset. Bluegill - Fair: Find sunken fish structure. Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom; electronics are a bonus to find fish. Black Crappie - Fair: Find sunken fish structure. Try an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

Ice anglers are getting out now with the more favorable ice conditions on area lakes and ponds. Use extreme caution on lakes and ponds, especially with the snow cover. Reports have been fair for both bluegill and crappie. Trout streams remain in excellent condition. Call the N.E. Iowa district office at 563-927-3276 for more information.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9
River level at Lansing has drop a foot to 9.2 feet. Protected backwaters have around 10 inches of ice. Ice conditions along the shorelines can be unstable due to dropping river levels. Yellow Perch - Good: Reports of nice-sized perch from Pool 9 backwaters. Black Crappie - Fair: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill are biting on waxworms fished through the ice in backwater lakes. Northern Pike - Good: Tip-up anglers are having success with shiners or suckers for larger pike. Largemouth Bass - Good: Try a lively shiner on a tip-up for some big bass through the ice.

Mississippi River Pool 10
River level at Lynxville dropped to 18.8 feet; a gradual fall is predicted this week. Protected backwaters have 10 inches of ice. Ice conditions along the shorelines can be unstable due to dropping river levels. Sny Magill road is closed due to flooding. Yellow Perch - Good: Reports of nice-sized perch from Pool 10 backwaters. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill are biting on waxworms fished through the ice in backwater lakes. Northern Pike - Good: Tip-up anglers are having success with shiners or suckers for larger pike. Largemouth Bass - Good: Try a lively shiner on a tip-up for some big bass through the ice.

Mississippi River Pool 11
River level at Guttenberg has risen to 11.8 feet this week. Boat ramps are all iced in. Protected backwaters have 10 inches of ice. Ice conditions along the shorelines can be unstable due to dropping river levels. Yellow Perch - Fair: Perch are biting in Sunfish and Mud Lake. Use caution and avoid the creek area at Mud Lake; unsafe ice. Fish in deeper cuts with some vegetation in backwater areas. Black Crappie - Slow: Few reports of crappie mixed with bluegills fished through the ice. Northern Pike - Good: Tip-up anglers are having success with shiners or suckers for larger pike. Largemouth Bass - Good: Try a lively shiner on a tip-up for some big bass through the ice. 

Upper Mississippi River levels are expected to gradually recede after bumping up last week. Some ice flow is still occurring making access and fishing difficult below dams. Most areas have 7 to 10 inches of ice. Falling river levels will impact shoreline ice conditions. Avoid poor ice conditions on shorelines and areas with current.

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
The water level is 10 feet at the Dubuque Lock and Dam and 12.3 feet at the RR bridge. River levels at Dubuque are receding. The water temperature is 32.5 degrees. Water clarity is good. The tailwater is fairly free of flowing ice, but boat ramps are iced in. Ice anglers are reporting water and slush on top of the ice in many places. Sauger - Good: It takes some work to get into the tailwaters, but they are mostly open and can be fished. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills are abundant, but not very aggressive. Use light equipment, small jigs and rod tips able to detect small hits. Lots of sorting needed, but you can find some nice-sized gills. Yellow Perch - Fair: Anglers are catching a yellow perch or two when bluegill fishing. Some exceptional yellow perch creels were seen in early ice. Now anglers are only be catching a few each trip. Black Crappie - Fair: A few incidental crappies are being caught when ice fishing for bluegills. Reports of some nice crappies. 

Mississippi River Pool 13
Water level is 11.6 feet at the Bellevue Lock and Dam and is receding. The water temperature is 32.5 degrees. Water clarity is good. The tailwater is ice free. The city ramp has been open. Ice fishing is taking place, but anglers are reporting slush and water on top of the ice and open edges in some backwaters.  Sauger - Good: Anglers report lots of smaller sauger with a few nice-sized fish mixed in. Lock and Dam gates are open. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills are abundant, but not very aggressive. Use light equipment, small jigs and rod tips able to detect small hits. Lots of sorting needed, but you can find some nice-sized gills. Yellow Perch - Fair: Anglers are catching a yellow perch or two when fishing for bluegill. Some anglers targeted good numbers of yellow perch in early ice, but now are only catching a few each trip. Black Crappie - Fair: A few incidental crappies are being caught when ice fishing for bluegills. Largemouth Bass - Good: Quite a few largemouth bass are being caught through the ice this year. 

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is 9.9 feet at the Fulton Lock and Dam, 12.8 feet at Camanche and 7.3 feet at LeClaire. Water temperature is around 32.5 degrees. River levels are receding. The tailwater has been ice free, but finding an open boat ramp may be difficult. Ice anglers report slush and water on top of the ice and open edges in many places. Sauger - Fair: Early winter catches were decent with lots of smaller sauger reported along with some nice walleye and sauger taken. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills are abundant, but not very aggressive. Use light equipment, small jigs and rod tips able to detect small hits. Lots of sorting needed, but you can find some nice-sized gills.  Black Crappie - Fair: A few incidental crappies are being caught when ice fishing for bluegills.

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water level is around 10.3 feet at Rock Island and has been falling. The water temperature is around 33 degrees. Water clarity is good. 

Tailwaters are open, but ramps may have ice on them. Water levels are receding throughout the district. Backwater ice fishing conditions are variable; use caution, especially in snow-covered sloughs. Reported backwater ice depths are 1 to 7 inches. Water is often on top of the ice. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-872-4976.

Mississippi River Pool 16
Tailwater stage is 10.27 feet at Lock and Dam 15 in the Quad Cities and has been rising. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 15. The Marquette Street boat ramp is open. Unsafe ice conditions. Fluctuating river levels have made unsafe ice conditions, especially along the shorelines. Sauger - Slow: Reports of small saugers being caught in Sylvan Slough. Use jigs and minnows or troll three-way rigs with stick baits. 

Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage is 9.3 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine and has been rising. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 16. As of Feb. 6, the ramp at Muscatine was open, but the dock has been pulled out. The gates are in at the dam still. We have not received any tailwater fishing reports for walleye and sauger. Unsafe ice conditions. Rising river levels have created unsafe ice conditions, especially along the shorelines.

Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage is 10.56 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston and has been rising the past few days. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 17. The gates are out of the water at the Lock and Dam. The boat ramp at Toolsboro is open and free of ice. We have not received any tailwater fishing reports for walleyes and saugers. Unsafe ice conditions. The rising river levels have created unsafe ice conditions, especially along the shorelines.

Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage is 7.44 feet at Lock and Dam 18 and has been falling the past few days. Flood stage is 10 feet at Lock and Dam 18. River stage is 12.7 feet at Burlington and has been falling the past few days. We have not received any fishing or ice condition reports for this pool.

Tailwater stages have been rising the past few days. Tailwater stages are forecast to start falling over the weekend. Main channel water temperature is around 32 degrees. Unsafe ice conditions. With warm temperatures this past weekend and river levels fluctuating, there is some unsafe ice conditions especially along the shorelines.  If you have questions on fishing Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.

 

SOUTHEAST

Central Park Lake
Ice thickness 6 to 8 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Most fish are around 4-6 inches. Use jigs tipped with waxies or plastics. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Most fish are around 8-12 inches.

Central Park Pond
Ice thickness is 6 to 7 inches.

Coralville Reservoir
The lake is froze over, but the channel has poor ice; travel is not recommended. The protected areas out of the current and wind have 4 to 6 inches of ice. The lake is at normal winter pool of 683.4 feet.

Diamond Lake
Ice thickness is 2 to 6 inches; use extreme caution. 

Green Castle Lake
No ice or fishing reports are available. Anglers have been on the ice.

Hannen Lake
Ice thickness is 5 to 6 inches.

Iowa Lake (Iowa Co.)
Ice is 9 inches at the boat ramp; out farther is 7 inches. The east end of the lake may have less ice; check ice conditions as you go.

Lake Macbride
Much of the lake has 6 to 8 inches of ice; there are areas of deeper water, especially at the lower end of the lake, that may have poor ice. Bluegill – Good: Use small jigs/waxies fished over brush or rock pile. Black Crappie - Slow: The bite has been tough. Isolated brush or stumps has been best. Best bite is early and late in the day. Most success has been in 10-15 feet of water. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Slow: A few bonus fish are being picked up in 18-20 feet of water. Walleye – Slow.

Otter Creek Lake
Ice thickness is 8 to 11 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Use jigs and waxies. Black Crappie - Fair: Try jigs and waxies. Yellow Bass - Fair: Use jigs tipped with waxies or cut bait.

Pleasant Creek Lake
The lake has 4 to 8 inches of ice, depending on where you are. The west end of the lake has the best ice; the east end should be checked before walked on. Bluegill - Fair: Some fish are being caught at the west end of the lake. Try around brush or jetties near shore. Yellow Perch - Slow: Some smaller fish are being caught.

Rodgers Park Lake
Ice thickness is 5 to 6 inches.

Sand Lake
No ice or fishing reports are available. Anglers have been on the ice.

Union Grove Lake
Most of the lake has 6 to 8 inches of ice. The aeration system has been turned on; there is open water at the south end of the lake. Bluegill - Fair: Catch fish up to 8 inches with jigs/waxies fished in brush piles.

Always check ice thickness and use caution when venturing out. For more information, contact the Lake Macbride Fisheries Station at 319-624-3615.

Albia Lower Reservoir
Anglers are catching some bluegill around the submerged structure. Use caution; ice thickness has been variable in the district.

Lake Miami
Few reports this week; anglers are just starting to get out now with better ice conditions. Ice conditions are variable.

Lake Sugem
Ice formed recently and is variable in thickness; use caution if venturing out. Geese are keeping areas open; be aware of these areas.

Lake Wapello
The lake iced up recently; use caution if venturing out. There is thin ice or open water out in front of the lodge area due to geese keeping the water open. Anglers are catching some bluegills.

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 904.97 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another water body. The ice is variable on the lake; use caution if venturing out. Use caution in areas inside and next to docks at the Rathbun Marina and the Honey Creek Resort as they are using deicing equipment this winter.

Red Haw Lake
Ice formed recently; use caution. Ice thickness is variable.

Ice thickness is variable; use caution. Lakes have about 4 inches of snow and slush on top of the ice. The district includes Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST

Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake
The trout stocking and family fishing event will be held this Saturday, Feb. 8 at noon. JAX Outdoors, the City of Ames and local businesses have donated prizes for tagged fish. Tags can be turned in to JAX until 6 p.m. on Feb. 22. Rainbow Trout - Good: Catch trout 5 to 20 yards off shore with panfish jigs and small jigging spoons tipped with waxworms.

Big Creek Lake
Ice conditions are good; ice thickness is 8 to 12 inches.  Walleye - Fair: Use minnows fished still or on jigging spoons. Fish mid-lake on drop-offs to the creek channel in 20 to 30 feet of water.

Don Williams Lake
Black Crappie - Slow: Use minnows or glow jigs tipped with waxworms fished at sunrise or in the late afternoon and just after dark. 

Hickory Grove Lake
Hickory Grove was pumped dry in the fall to renovate the fishery.  No fishing is available until after the lake is restocked.

Lake Ahquabi
Ice thickness is 6 to 8 inches. Test the ice thickness when you venture out.  Bluegill - Good. Crappie – Fair: Good size.

Lake Petocka
Trout were stocked on Jan. 28. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Rainbow Trout - Good: Use panfish jigs and small jigging spoons tipped with waxworms. The good bite is fishing suspended fish out deeper.

Ice fishing conditions in Central Iowa are good. Use caution on lakes south of I80 where areas of thin ice have been persistent. For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

Big Lake (Including Gilbert's Pond)
Ice thickness is 6 inches. On Jan. 24th, 1000 rainbow trout were stocked into Big Lake.You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Rainbow Trout - Good: Any type of small spinner or minnow under a bobber will catch rainbow trout.

Lake Anita
Anglers report 5 to 7 inches of ice on most of the lake. Bluegill - Slow: A few bluegills are being caught south of the campground. Black Crappie - Fair: Anglers report early and late in the day is best for 9 inch black crappies.

Lake Manawa
Ice is variable. Some activity is taking place around the dredge cuts. Black Crappie - Slow: A few reports of fair crappie fishing in the dredge cuts late in the afternoon.

Littlefield Lake
Littlefield has a consistent 9 inches of ice. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers are finding bluegills in the cedar tree piles. Sorting is needed for larger fish.

Orient Lake
Anglers report 7 inches of ice. Fall fisheries surveys showed good numbers of crappies and bluegills. Black Crappie - Fair: The best bite is early and late for 9 to 12 inch black crappie. Bluegill - Fair: Use waxworms fished around the cedar tree piles. Fish  average 8 inches. Yellow Perch - Fair:  Catch yellow perch early in the morning. Pink color jigs or spoon work best with waxworms. Fish are 8 to 12 inches. Channel Catfish - Good: Anglers have had a bonus fish this week. Most catfish are 18 to 24 inches.

Prairie Rose Lake
Ice thickness is 7 to 9 inches. Most of the fishing activity is taking place east of the beach on the north side of the lake. Bluegill - Slow: The fishing should improve with a more stable weather pattern. A few large bluegills are being picked up east of the beach around the rock piles.

Ice conditions are still variable in the southern part of the district. Lakes in the northern part of the district have 9 inches of ice. For more information call the SW District Office at 712-769-2587.

Green Valley Lake
Variable ice thickness up to 8 inches. Black Crappie - Good: Catch crappie up to 9 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm or minnow fished near cedar tree brush piles. Bluegill - Good: Catch bluegill up to 7.5 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm fished near cedar tree brush piles.

Lake Icaria
Variable ice conditions up to 7 inches. Areas of open water near the dam. Black Crappie - Slow: Catch crappies up to 10 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm or minnow fished along cedar tree brush piles. Walleye - Slow: Try jigs tipped with a minnow fished along the roadbed for walleye of all sizes.

Little River Watershed Lake
Ice thickness is variable up to 7 inches. Areas of open water along the campground and main ramp areas.

Three Mile Lake
Variable ice thickness up to 7 inches. Area of open water near the main campground point. Bluegill - Slow: Catch bluegill up to 8 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm fished along the roadbed.

Twelve Mile Creek Lake
Variable ice thickness up to 8 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Catch bluegill up to 8.5 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm fished along the roadbed or cedar tree brush piles. Black Crappie - Fair: Catch crappie up to 10 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm or minnow fished along the roadbed or cedar tree brush piles. Walleye - Fair: Try jigs tipped with a minnow fished along the roadbed for walleye of all sizes.

Ice conditions for the Mount Ayr district lakes is variable, ranging from 4 to 8 inches. Check ice thickness often when venturing out. Geese are keeping some areas of open water at some district lakes.

[Rick]

IOWA FISHING REPORTS

 

NORTHWEST

Arrowhead Lake
Ice thickness is around 7 inches near the boat ramp. Conditions are variable; check ice thickness often if you venture out. Use waxworms and minnows near structure to target bluegill, crappie and perch.

Bacon Creek Lake
The DNR stocked rainbow trout at Bacon Creek Lake in January. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Use a piece of worm, small minnow, or power bait fished under a bobber. Put the bait on a small hook or small and shiny jig.

Black Hawk Lake
There is around 12 inches of ice off of Ice House Point boat ramp. Conditions are more variable in the east basin of the lake. The winter aeration system in Town Bay is in operation; expect open water and thin ice in Town Bay. Yellow Perch - Fair: Anglers are catching perch around Gunshot Hill in the marina and near Provost Point. Keeper-size perch are 8 to 10 inches; sorting is needed. Use waxworms and small minnows. Bluegill - Fair: Most anglers are using waxworms fished near the Ice House Point boat ramp and the rock piles off Gunshot Hill and Cottonwood Point. Most fish are 7-8 inches. Channel Catfish - Fair: Anglers have picked up catfish off the rock pile north of Cottonwood Point and in the east basin; use waxworms. Black Crappie - Fair: Try minnows and waxworms fished in the marina and off the rock pile near Gunshot Hill. Most fish are 8-10 inches; sorting is needed. Walleye - Slow. 

Black Hawk Pits
Ice thickness is 6 to 8 inches near the ramp. Thin ice and open water are by the west shoreline near the highway. Conditions are variable; use caution and check ice thickness often. Black Crappie - Fair: Use waxworms. 

Brushy Creek Lake
Ice thickness is 10 to 14 inches in the NE arm and around Taylor's Island. Ice is thinner and more variable mid-lake. There may be open areas in the middle of the lake, under bridges and near inflows. Yellow Perch - Fair: Use waxworms and small minnows. Some sorting is needed. Walleye – Fair. Bluegill - Fair: Use a waxworm or small minnow on a jig fished near structure. Reports of 9 inch keepers.

Moorland Pond
Rainbow Trout - Fair: Use a piece of worm, small minnow, or power bait fished under a bobber. Put the bait on a small hook or small and shiny jig. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.

North Twin Lake
Ice thickness is 12 to 14 inches in most areas. There are small pockets of open water near a tile outlet on the west side in the southern portion of the lake and near the outlet.

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Ice thickness is 8 to 15 inches, with thinner ice on the east part of the lake. Avoid open areas near the island. Anglers are catching perch, crappie, walleye and white bass.

Ice thickness in west central Iowa is 8 to 16 inches. Some lakes have open areas and seams. Use caution; check thickness often. There is open water and thin ice in Town Bay of Black Hawk Lake from the aeration system.  For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Clear Lake
Ice thickness is 12 to 15 inches. Use caution near the aeration systems. Yellow Perch - Good: Yellow perch are biting on a variety of baits. Use larger baits and change location to find bigger fish. Walleye - Slow: Try a jigging spoon tipped with a minnow head near the edge of vegetation. Best bite is during low light periods. Black Crappie – Slow: Use a jig tipped with a waxworm on the edge of vegetation. Yellow Bass - Slow: Try a small spoon tipped with cut bait or several waxworms. You have to move around to find fish. 

Crystal Lake
Ice thickness is 12 to 15 inches. 

Lower Pine Lake
Use extra caution directly north and east of the Island; an area of poor ice was reported. A few reports of anglers catching keeper-size perch and crappie, but most are only catching  small bluegill. Bluegill – Fair.

Rice Lake
Ice thickness is 11 to 15 inches. Bluegill – Fair: Use small jigs tipped with a waxworm. Best bite is late afternoon. Yellow Perch – Slow:Try a small jigging spoon tipped with a waxworm. Walleye – Slow. 

Silver Lake (Worth)
Ice thickness is 11 to 15 inches. Bluegill – Slow. 

For information on the lakes and rivers in north central Iowa, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

Center Lake
Ice thickness is 14 to 16 inches. The aeration system has been started. Use caution on the west side of the lake, north of the boat ramp. Signs are up around the aerator hole.

East Okoboji Lake
Ice thickness is 14 to 15 inches. Bluegill - Good: Sorting is needed, but the bite has been good in the southern section of the lake along the weed line. Try near the trestle and the Hattie Elston Boat Ramp. Use small jigs and wigglers. Walleye - Fair: Fishing  has been good near Parks Marina in the evening. Use spoons, jigging raps or minnows in the early morning or evening. Yellow Perch – Fair. Black Crappie – Good. Yellow Bass – Fair.

Ingham Lake
Ice thickness is 12 to 16 inches. The aeration system has been started. Use caution on the southeast side of the lake and off the northern boat ramp. Signs are up around the aerator hole.

Lost Island Lake
Ice thickness is around 12 inches. Yellow Perch – Fair. Walleye – Fair.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
Ice thickness is 15 to 18 inches. The aeration system has been started. Use caution on the east side of the lake. Signs are up around the aeration holes.

Spirit Lake
Ice thickness is 15 to 18 inches. Walleye - Good: Fish one hour before and after sunrise or sunset. Use spoons or jigging raps tipped with minnow heads in 12-14 feet of water. Also try live minnows. Reports of lots of slot size and bigger fish. Bluegill - Fair: Use wigglers and small jigs in Anglers Bay and Trickles Slough. Yellow Perch - Good: Try minnows and small jigs in Anglers Bay and near Minniwaukon. Best bite is early and late. Be prepared to move around until you get on top of them. Black Crappie – Fair.

Trumbull Lake
Yellow Perch - Fair: Size quality is outstanding with some sorting. Use jigs and minnows or wigglers in the main lake.

West Okoboji Lake
Ice conditions are variable. Beware of heaves at Atwell and Gull Point; don't drive over heaves/seams. Ice thickness has been up to 14 inches in small bays and thinner on the main lake. Bluegill - Good: Little Emerson Bay is producing a few nice bluegills. Sorting is needed. Walleye - Fair: Fish rocky areas in 18-20 feet of water. Live minnows work best an hour before and after sunset.

Ice thickness is 13 to 18 inches on area lakes. Ice conditions are generally good; be weary of holes caused by springs/methane release. Do not travel under bridges and other areas of flow; most of these areas have little to no ice. Aeration systems at Center Lake, Silver Lake (near Lake Park), and Ingham Lake have been started and signs are up; stay clear of these systems. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Backwaters and slack water areas have about 5 to 9 inches of ice with 5 inches of snow. Ice conditions may change with warmer temperatures. Use care when crossing areas with current. Check ice depths often. Anglers are finding fish. Black Crappie - Fair: Find deeper water or off-channel refuges out of current. Use waxworms or spikes. Yellow Perch - Slow: Anglers are finding a few perch mixed in with the crappie. Bluegill - Fair: Find deeper off-channel areas. Spikes or waxworms tipped on a small jig work well. Walleye - Fair: Anglers fishing below dams are finding walleye. Use jigs tipped with a ringworm, minnow or crawler. 

Decorah District Streams
Parking lots in wildlife management areas are not plowed. Heavy use areas should be packed enough for anglers to get around. Use care when parking on the roadside. Trout streams are clear and remain ice free. Brook Trout - Good: Midges and small mayflies are hatching on warmer sunny days. Use flies imitating insects hatching. Brown Trout - Good: Try a fly imitating small silvery fish. Feathered spinner baits work well when fished through pools. Rainbow Trout - Good: Fish are actively hitting the surface early afternoon. Use an ultra-light pole and reel for fun action. Try a spinner in eddies and around structure. 

Lake Hendricks
Lake Hendricks has about 14 inches of ice with 10 inches of snow on top. Fish activity has slowed. Open water around the aerator; be careful around this area. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the ice. Black Crappie - Slow: Use a small jig tipped with a waxworm. Fish are suspended off the bottom. A variety of sizes are being caught. Bluegill - Slow: Use a baited hook; gills are sitting closer to the bottom. 

Lake Meyer
Lake Meyer has 10 inches of ice with 6 inches of snow on top. Use care when going on ice, especially around the dam. Check ice depths often. Hit or miss panfish action. Fish are hanging in 8 to 10 feet of water around brush piles. Bluegill - Slow: Anglers are marking a lot of fish, but few bites. Find gills around brush piles using a small jig tipped with a waxworm fished near the bottom. Morning bite is best. Black Crappie - Slow: Crappie are suspended above brush piles. Baited hooks work best. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Catching bass while fishing for panfish.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Backwaters and slack water areas are ice and snow covered. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on Vernon Springs impoundment when covered with ice. Water is crystal clear. Check ice depths often, especially where there is current. Walleye - Slow: Anglers are catching walleye in off-channel areas and drop-offs using minnows.

Volga Lake
Ten inches of ice with some snow on top. Use care when going on ice; check ice depths often. Fish action remains spotty. Black Crappie - Slow: Use waxworms or spikes fished in brush or rock piles. Bluegill - Slow: Try small bait on small hooks. Gills are small.

Chance of snow through the weekend. Temperatures are in the upper 20's to low 30's. Use care on area rivers. Ice thickness varies on waterbodies with current. Fish activity is slow on area lakes. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

Casey Lake (aka Hickory Hills Lake)
Best ice conditions on the lake are near the dam area. Bluegill - Excellent: Quality size bluegill are being caught in the early morning hours in 10 to 11 feet of water or deeper and on structure. Find sunken fish structure near the dam. Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom; electronics are a bonus to find fish. Black Crappie - Fair: Find sunken fish structure near the dam. Try an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
Backwater areas of the Cedar River are producing some crappie. Use extreme caution when venturing out onto river ice. Black Crappie - Fair: Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

Martens Lake
Anglers are catching a few bluegill and crappie; reports are best for northern pike. Access is available crossing the reservoir from the north side of the lake; use caution. Bluegill - Fair: Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom. Black Crappie - Fair: Try an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow. Northern Pike - Good: Use a live shiner or chub under a tip-up rig. 

Plainfield
Anglers report fair catches of panfish on Plainfield Lake this past week. Best bite is first light in morning and last hour before sunset. Bluegill - Fair: Find sunken fish structure. Use an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom; electronics are a bonus to find fish. Black Crappie - Fair: Find sunken fish structure. Try an ice jig tipped with a waxworm fished just off of the bottom or use electronics to find suspended fish, which often are crappie. Also try a dead stick rig tipped with a live minnow.

Ice fishing reports are few this past week. Trout streams remain in excellent condition. Call the N.E. Iowa district office at 563-927-3276 for more information.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9
River level at Lansing has drop a foot to 9 feet. Protected backwaters have around 10 to 12 inches of ice. Ice conditions along the shorelines can be unstable due to fluctuating river levels. Yellow Perch - Good: Reports of nice-sized perch from Pool 9 backwaters. Black Crappie - Good: Crappie bite is better later afternoon into evening. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill are biting on waxworms fished through the ice in backwater lakes. Northern Pike - Good: Tip-up anglers are having success with shiners or suckers for larger pike. Largemouth Bass - Good: Try a lively shiner on a tip-up for some big bass through the ice.

Mississippi River Pool 10
River level at Lynxville dropped to 17.5 feet, but is predicted to bump up again this week. Protected backwaters have around 10 to 12 inches of ice. Ice conditions along the shorelines can be unstable due to fluctuating river levels. Sny Magill road has reopened. Yellow Perch - Good: Reports of nice-sized perch from Pool 10 backwaters. Black Crappie - Fair: Crappie bite is better later afternoon into evening. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill are biting on waxworms fished through the ice in backwater lakes. Northern Pike - Good: Tip-up anglers are having success with shiners or suckers for larger pike. Largemouth Bass - Good: Try a lively shiner on a tip-up for some big bass through the ice.

Mississippi River Pool 11
River level at Guttenberg has fallen several feet to 9 feet, but is expected to edge back up. Boat ramps are all iced in. Protected backwaters have around 10 to 12 inches of ice. Ice conditions along the shorelines can be unstable due to fluctuating river levels. Yellow Perch - Fair: Perch are biting in Sunfish and Mud Lake. Use caution and avoid the creek area at Mud Lake; unsafe ice. Fish in deeper cuts with some vegetation in backwater areas. Black Crappie - Fair: Crappie bite is better later afternoon into evening. Northern Pike - Good: Tip-up anglers are having success with shiners or suckers for larger pike. Largemouth Bass - Good: Try a lively shiner on a tip-up for some big bass through the ice. 

Upper Mississippi River levels fell quickly last week with another slight rise expected. Most backwater lakes have up to 12 inches of ice. Ice anglers are moving around a lot with conditions changing daily. Fluctuating water levels have left shorelines unstable. Avoid crossing areas with any current.

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
The water level is 7.4 feet at the Dubuque Lock and Dam and 9.9 feet at the RR bridge. River levels at Dubuque are expected to be steady. The water temperature is 32.5 degrees. Water clarity is good. The tailwater is fairly free of flowing ice, but boat ramps are iced in. Sauger - Good: It takes some work to get into the tailwaters, but they are mostly open and can be fished. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills are abundant, but not very aggressive. Use light equipment, small jigs and rod tips able to detect small hits. Lots of sorting needed, but you can find some nice-sized gills. Yellow Perch - Fair: Anglers are catching a yellow perch or two when bluegill fishing. Some exceptional yellow perch creels were seen in early ice. Now anglers are only be catching a few each trip. Black Crappie - Fair: A few incidental crappies are being caught when ice fishing for bluegills. Reports of some nice crappies. 

Mississippi River Pool 13
Water level is 7.9 feet at the Bellevue Lock and Dam and is stable. The water temperature is 32.5 degrees. Water clarity is good. The tailwater is ice free. The city ramp has been open, but may freeze in again with cooler temperatures. Ice depth is variable; use caution when ice fishing. Sauger - Good: Anglers report lots of smaller sauger with a few nice-sized fish mixed in. Lock and Dam gates are open. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills are abundant, but not very aggressive. Use light equipment, small jigs and rod tips able to detect small hits. Lots of sorting needed, but you can find some nice-sized gills. Yellow Perch - Fair: Anglers are catching a yellow perch or two when fishing for bluegill. Some anglers targeted good numbers of yellow perch in early ice, but now are only catching a few each trip. Black Crappie - Fair: A few incidental crappies are being caught when ice fishing for bluegills. Largemouth Bass - Good: Quite a few largemouth bass are being caught through the ice this year. 

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is 6.6 feet at the Fulton Lock and Dam, 10.6 feet at Camanche and 5.4 feet at LeClaire. Water temperature is around 32.5 degrees. River levels are stable. The tailwater has been ice free, but finding an open boat ramp may be difficult. Ice anglers report variable ice conditions. Sauger - Fair: Early winter catches were decent with lots of smaller sauger reported along with some nice walleye and sauger taken. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are abundant, but not very aggressive. Use light equipment, small jigs and rod tips able to detect small hits. Lots of sorting needed, but you can find some nice-sized gills. Black Crappie - Fair: A few incidental crappies are being caught when ice fishing for bluegills.

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water level is around 7.4 feet at Rock Island and is stable. The water temperature is around 33 degrees. Water clarity is good. 

Tailwaters are open, but ramps may have ice on them. Water levels are stable throughout the district. Backwater ice fishing conditions are variable; use caution, especially in snow-covered sloughs. Reported backwater ice depths are 1 to 7 inches. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-872-4976.

Mississippi River Pool 16
Tailwater stage is 7.35 feet at Lock and Dam 15 in the Quad Cities and has been falling. Tailwater stage has fallen close to 3 feet since last weekend. As of Feb. 13th, the Marquette Street boat ramp is open. There is snow and ice on the ramp that could make lauching boats difficult. The launch and channel may freeze up with the cold temperatures in the forecast. We have not received any ice fishing or ice condition reports for this pool. Sauger - Fair: Reports of small saugers being caught in Sylvan Slough. Use jigs and minnows or troll three-way rigs with stick baits. 

Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage is 6.24 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine and has been falling. Tailwater fishing has been slow. As of Feb. 13, the ramp at Muscatine was open, but was snow and ice covered. The ramps may freeze back in with the cold temperatures in the forecast. We have not received any ice fishing or ice condition reports for this pool. 

Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage is 7.7 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston and has fallen close to 2.5 feet since last weekend. As of Feb. 11, the boat ramp at Toolsboro was open, but ramp conditions may have changed with the snow and cold temperatures in the forecast. The ramp is probably snow and ice covered; launching boats could be difficult. We have not received any ice fishing or ice condition reports for this pool.  

Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage is 5.17 feet at Lock and Dam 18 and has been falling. Tailwater stages have fallen close to 2 feet since last weekend. We have not received any fishing or ice condition reports for this pool.

Tailwater stages have been falling this past week. Tailwater fishing has been slow. We have not received any ice condition reports this week. The falling river conditions could create some unsafe ice conditions along the shorelines. If you have questions on fishing Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.

 

SOUTHEAST

Big Hollow Lake
The warmer weather this week, up until Feb. 13, has been working on the ice. Some thin areas had been starting to develop. Be careful, especially after this cold snap ends. Bluegill - Slow: Very few anglers have been out on the ice.

Lake Belva Deer
Ice conditions remain fairly good. Be careful about getting too close to the trees in the flooded timber. Bluegill - Slow: A few here and there kind of fishing.

Lake Darling
Ice conditions remain fairly good; there is water on top of the ice on the warmer days. Black Crappie - Slow: Number of anglers out on the ice has gone down.

Lost Grove Lake
The ice is in pretty good shape. Black Crappie - Slow: If you pick the right evening to go fishing, you can still catch them. Bluegill - Slow: Anglers are having a harder time finding bluegill.

For more information on the above lake, call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

 

Cedar River (La Porte City to Cedar Rapids)
Vinton area backwaters have 6 to 7 inches of ice. Bluegill - Fair: Most fish are small. White Crappie – Slow. Northern Pike - Slow: A few fish are being caught on tip-ups.

Central Park Lake
Ice thickness is 6 to 8 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Most fish are around 4-6 inches. Use jigs tipped with waxies or plastics. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Most fish are around 8-12 inches.

Central Park Pond
Ice thickness is 6 to 7 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Most fish are 5-7 inches.

Coralville Reservoir
The lake is frozen over, but the channel has poor ice; travel is not recommended. The protected areas out of the current and wind have 5 to 7 inches of ice. The lake is at normal winter pool of 683.4 feet.

Diamond Lake
Ice thickness is 4 to 8 inches. Bluegill – Fair. Black Crappie - Fair: Most fish are 8-9 inches.

Green Castle Lake
Ice thickness is 6+ inches. Bluegill - Fair: Reports are better sized fish are on the west side of the lake. Black Crappie - Slow: Catches are spotty, but some 12-14 inch fish are reported.

Hannen Lake
Ice thickness is 5 to 6 inches. Bluegill – Slow.

Iowa Lake (Iowa Co.)
Ice thickness is around 8 inches. Reports are lots of lookers, but few biters. Bluegill – Slow. Black Crappie – Slow.

Lake Macbride
Much of the lake has 6 to 8 inches of ice; there are areas of deeper water, especially at the lower end of the lake, that may have less ice. Bluegill – Fair: Use small jigs/waxies fished over brush or rock pile. Black Crappie - Slow: The bite has been tough. Isolated brush or stumps has been best. Best bite is early and late in the day. Most success has been in 10-15 feet of water. 

Otter Creek Lake
Ice thickness is 8 to 11 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Use jigs and waxies. Black Crappie - Slow: Try jigs and waxies. Yellow Bass - Fair: Use jigs tipped with waxies or cut bait.

Pleasant Creek Lake
The lake has 4 to 8 inches of ice, depending on where you are. The west end of the lake has the best ice; the east end towards the dam has less ice. Bluegill - Fair: Some fish are being caught at the west end of the lake. Try around brush or jetties in 4-8 feet of water.

Rodgers Park Lake
Ice thickness is 5 to 6 inches. Bluegill – Fair. Largemouth Bass – Slow. 

Sand Lake
Ice thickness is extremely variable; use caution. Rainbow Trout - Fair: Fish from last year, as well as larger fish from previous years stockings, are being caught. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.

Union Grove Lake
Most of the lake has 6 to 8 inches of ice. The aeration system has been turned on; there is open water at the south end of the lake. Bluegill - Slow: Catch fish up to 8 inches with jigs/waxies fished in deeper brush piles mid-lake .

Always check ice thickness and use caution when venturing out. For more information, contact the Lake Macbride Fisheries Station at 319-624-3615.

Albia Lower Reservoir
Anglers are catching some bluegill around the submerged structure. Use caution; ice thickness has been variable in the district.

Lake Miami
Few reports this week; anglers are just starting to get out now with better ice conditions. Ice conditions are variable.

Lake Sugema
Ice formed recently and is variable in thickness; use caution if venturing out. Geese are keeping areas open; be aware of these areas.

Lake Wapello
The lake iced up recently; use caution if venturing out. There is thin ice or open water out in front of the lodge area due to geese keeping the water open. Anglers are catching some bluegills.

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 905.07 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another water body. The ice is variable on the lake; use caution if venturing out. Use caution in areas inside and next to docks at the Rathbun Marina and the Honey Creek Resort as they are using deicing equipment this winter.

Red Haw Lake
Ice formed recently; use caution. Ice thickness is variable. Anglers are catching bluegill around submerged structures; sorting is needed for larger fish.

Ice thickness is variable; use caution. Lakes have about 4 inches of snow on top of the ice. The district includes Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST

Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake
Tagged trout for prizes donated from JAX Outdoors, the City of Ames and local businesses can be turned in to JAX until 6 p.m. on Feb. 22. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Rainbow Trout - Good: Catch trout 5 to 20 yards off the north and east shores of the north pit with panfish jigs and small jigging spoons tipped with waxworms.

Beaver Lake
Bluegill - Fair: Catch bluegills mid-lake in the trees. The bite has been slow during the day and best during the late afternoon and evening just before dark.

Big Creek Lake
Ice conditions are good; ice thickness is 8 to 12 inches.  Walleye - Fair: Use minnows fished still or jigging spoons. Fish mid-lake on drop-offs to the creek channel in 20 to 30 feet of water.

Don Williams Lake
Black Crappie - Slow: Use minnows or glow jigs tipped with waxworms fished at sunrise or in the late afternoon and just after dark. 

Hickory Grove Lake
Hickory Grove was pumped dry in the fall to renovate the fishery.  No fishing is available until after the lake is restocked.

Lake Petocka
You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Rainbow Trout - Good: Use panfish jigs and small jigging spoons tipped with waxworms. The good bite is fishing suspended fish out deeper.

Roberts Creek Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Catch suspended crappies with jigging spoons tipped with minnow heads or live minnows, or glow jigs tipped with waxworms.

Ice fishing conditions in Central Iowa are good. For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

Big Lake (Including Gilbert's Pond)
Ice thickness is 6 inches. 1000 rainbow trout were stocked into Big Lake in January. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Rainbow Trout - Good: Any type of small spinner or minnow under a bobber will catch rainbow trout.

Lake Anita
Anglers report 7 to 10 inches of ice on most of the lake. Bluegill - Slow: A few bluegills are being caught south of the campground. Black Crappie - Fair: Anglers report early and late in the day is best for 9 inch black crappies.

Lake Manawa
Ice is variable. Some activity is taking place around the dredge cuts. Black Crappie - Slow: A few reports of fair crappie fishing in the dredge cuts late in the afternoon.

Littlefield Lake
Littlefield has a consistent 10 inches of ice. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers are finding bluegills in the cedar tree piles. Sorting is needed for larger fish.

Orient Lake
Anglers report 8 inches of ice. Fall fisheries surveys showed good numbers of crappies and bluegills. Black Crappie - Fair: The best bite is early and late for 9 to 12 inch black crappie. Bluegill - Fair: Use waxworms fished around the cedar tree piles. Fish average 8 inches. Yellow Perch - Fair:  Catch yellow perch early in the morning. Pink color jigs or spoon work best with waxworms. Fish are 8 to 12 inches. 

Prairie Rose Lake
Ice thickness is 10 inches. Most of the fishing activity is east of the beach on the north side of the lake. Bluegill - Slow: A few large bluegills are being picked up east of the beach around the rock piles.

Ice thickness is 4 to 10 inches in the Southwest District. Use caution in the southern part of the district. For more information call the SW District Office at 712-769-2587.

Green Valley Lake
Variable ice thickness up to 8 inches. Black Crappie - Good: Catch crappie up to 9 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm or minnow fished near cedar tree brush piles. Bluegill - Fair: Catch bluegill up to 7.5 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm fished near cedar tree brush piles.

Lake Icaria
Variable ice conditions up to 7 inches. Areas of open water near the dam. Black Crappie - Slow: Catch crappies up to 10 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm or minnow fished along cedar tree brush piles. Walleye - Slow: Try jigs tipped with a minnow fished along the roadbed for walleye of all sizes.

Little River Watershed Lake
Ice thickness is variable up to 7 inches. Areas of open water along the campground and main ramp areas.

Three Mile Lake
Variable ice thickness up to 7 inches. Area of open water near the main campground point. Bluegill - Slow: Catch bluegill up to 8 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm fished along the roadbed. Walleye - Fair: Try minnows fished along the roadbed in the early morning for walleye of all sizes. 

Twelve Mile Creek Lake
Variable ice thickness up to 8 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Catch bluegill up to 8.5 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm fished along the roadbed or cedar tree brush piles. Black Crappie - Slow: Catch crappie up to 10 inches with jigs tipped with a waxworm or minnow fished along the roadbed or cedar tree brush piles. Walleye - Slow: Try jigs tipped with a minnow fished along the roadbed for walleye of all sizes.

Ice conditions are variable for the Mount Ayr district lakes, ranging from 4 to 8 inches. Check ice thickness often when venturing out. Geese are keeping some areas of open water at some district lakes.

[Rick]

NORTHWEST

Black Hawk Lake
Courtesy docks are in at all boat ramps. Anglers are catching panfish in Town Bay using crawlers and minnows. Yellow Perch - Fair: Anglers are catching perch in Town Bay. Some sorting is needed. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers are catching bluegill in Town Bay.

North Raccoon River (above State Highway 175 bridge near Auburn)
Walleye fishing has been productive this week, but will likely slow down with rising water levels this weekend. Walleye - Fair: Walleye fishing has been productive. Target walleye in areas below riffles and in deeper pools.

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Fishing has been productive this week. Storm Lake has a daily limit of 3 walleye and all 17- to 22-inch walleye must be released; and no more than one walleye longer than 22 inches may be taken per day. Black Crappie - Fair: Use crawlers and minnows on a small jig fished from shore and in the marina. Walleye - Fair: Walleye fishing has been productive. Anglers have had luck from shore and in the marina. Yellow Perch – Fair. Channel Catfish - Fair: Target catfish from shore using cut bait fished on the bottom.

For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Clear Lake
The main lake is about 70 percent open. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use a dead chub fished on the bottom. Walleye - Slow: Wader fishing is picking up. Yellow Bass – Fair.

Lower Pine Lake
Lower Pine Lake is free of ice. The courtesy dock is in at the boat ramp. No fishing activity to report.

Upper Pine Lake
Upper Pine Lake is mostly free of icd. The courtesy dock is in at the boat ramp. No fishing activity to report.

Winnebago River
Northern Pike - Fair: Northern pike are being caught below the dams.

Ice conditions have deteriorated with the warm temperatures. Ice fishing is not recommended. Area Rivers are up, but the fishing should improve as water levels drop. For information on the lakes and rivers in north central Iowa, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

Center Lake
The aeration system has been turned off. Much of the lake ice has melted, making ice fishing near impossible. But there is still enough ice intact to make boat navigation difficult.

East Okoboji Lake
The Walleye Season is closed. Much of the lake ice has melted, making ice fishing near impossible. There is still enough ice intact to make boat navigation difficult, with only a couple available boat ramps. Bluegill - Good: Sorting is needed, but the bite has been good in the southern section of the lake along the weed line. Try near the trestle and the Hattie Elston Boat Ramp. Use small jigs and wigglers. Yellow Perch – Fair. Black Crappie – Good. Yellow Bass – Fair.

Ingham Lake
The aeration system has been turned off. Much of the lake ice has melted, making ice fishing near impossible. There is still enough ice intact to make boat navigation difficult. 

Lost Island Lake
Much of the lake ice has melted, making ice fishing near impossible. There is still enough ice intact to make boat navigation difficult.  Yellow Perch – Fair. Walleye – Fair.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
The aeration system has been turned off. Much of the lake ice has melted, making ice fishing near impossible.There is still enough ice intact to make boat navigation difficult.

Spirit Lake
The Walleye Season is closed. Much of the lake ice has melted, making ice fishing near impossible.There is still enough ice intact to make boat navigation difficult, with only a couple available boat ramps. Bluegill - Fair: Use wigglers and small jigs in Anglers Bay and Trickles Slough. Yellow Perch - Good: Try minnows and small jigs in Anglers Bay and near Minniwaukon. Best bite is early and late. Be prepared to move around until you get on top of them. Black Crappie – Fair.

Trumbull Lake
Much of the lake ice has melted, making ice fishing near impossible.There is still enough ice intact to make boat navigation difficult. Yellow Perch - Fair: Size quality is outstanding with some sorting. Use jigs and minnows or wigglers in the main lake.

West Okoboji Lake
The Walleye Season is closed. Much of the lake ice has melted, making ice fishing near impossible.There is still enough ice intact to make boat navigation difficult, with minimal available boat ramps. Bluegill - Good: Little Emerson Bay is producing a few nice bluegills. Sorting is needed. 

Willow Creek
Willow Creek was stocked on Feb. 21st for the Osceola County Trout Fest. You need a valid fishing license (age 16 and older) and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Rainbow Trout – Fair.

The Walleye Season is closed for the Iowa Great Lakes. Ice conditions have deteriorated significantly and made ice fishing near impossible. Many area lakes have opened up significantly, allowing for open water fishing in certain areas.Aeration systems at Center Lake, Silver Lake (near Lake Park), and Ingham Lake have been turned off. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
The Cedar River has stabilized and cleared. Conditions may change, depending on precipitation amounts north over the next few days. Walleye - Good: Anglers using crawlers and minnows are doing well below dams. Anglers are catching a good number of small walleye mixed with keeper-size. Channel Catfish - Good: With ice-out, find windward shores to fish. Use chunks of dead chubs or other dead fish. 

Decorah District Streams
Gravel roads are soft as the frost goes out. Stream clarity is improving. Trout stream stocking start the week of April 1.All trout stream stockings will be unannounced due to COVID-19 precautions. Get some fresh air and explore a new stream. Hatchery grounds are open to the public, but feeders and other conveniences are temporarily closed for prevention precautions. Brook Trout - Good: Midges and small mayflies are hatching on warmer sunny days. Use flies imitating insects hatching. Brown Trout - Excellent: Off-color water will turn brown trout on. Strong midge hatches are occurring. Feathered spinner baits work well when fished through pools. Use a fly imitating a midge emerging from its exoskeleton. Rainbow Trout - Fair:: With muddy water, use a worm or cheese floated through a pool under a bobber. Use an ultra-light pole and reel for fun action. 

Lake Hendricks
Ice fishing is not recommended. Ice conditions are deteriorating fast.

Lake Meyer
Ice fishing is not recommended. Ice has totally pulled away from the shore.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Water levels are stabilizing and clarity is improving. Water temperatures are in the mid 40's. Walleye - Good: Use worms or minnows fished below dams or other impoundments.

Upper Iowa River (above Decorah)
Water levels are stabilized and clarity is improving. Walleye - Good: Find fish below dams as water warms. Use worms and minnows; also try flashy spoons and spinners.

Volga Lake
Ice fishing is not recommended. Ice has pulled away from the shore. Water is pooled on top of the ice.

Area rivers have stabilized and clarity is improving. Precipitation forecast for this weekend may change conditions. Air temperatures will fall through the weekend. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
Reports of anglers catching a few walleye, smallmouth bass and channel catfish on the Cedar River. Catfish fishing is really good above the dam in Waverly. Walleye - Fair: Cast and retrieve live or artificial baits along eddies and current breaks. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Cast and retrieve live or artificial baits along eddies, current breaks and areas of rip-rap banks and shores. Channel Catfish - Good: Try fishing dead minnows or cut baits along the seams or edges of current breaks in two to four feet of water.

Manchester District Streams
There has been recent angler activity on Spring Branch Creek; this is a special regulation trout stream.

Maquoketa River (above Monticello)
Reports of anglers catching walleye on the Maquoketa River. Walleye - Fair: Cast and retrieve live or artificial baits along eddies and current breaks.

Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)
We didn’t received any information about fishing on the Shell Rock River this week. Walleye - No Report: Cast and retrieve live or artificial baits along eddies and current breaks.

Wapsipinicon River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)
Good reports a week ago on the Wapsipinicon River for northern pike. Only a few reports of walleye being caught. Northern Pike - Good: Float live chubs or shiners under a bobber in slack water areas off of main current. Try also bucktail spinners or other spinner baits. Walleye - Fair: Cast and retrieve live or artificial baits along eddies and current breaks.

It’s a great time to distance yourself from others by getting outdoors and supporting your local bait shop owners. Interior rivers are up, but are in respectable condition. Reports of anglers catching walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass and channel catfish. Trout streams will be hit-and-miss with the expected rainfall over the coming week. Call the N.E. Iowa district office at 563-927-3276 for more information.

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9
River level at Lansing has risen to 11.3 feet and is expected to reach 13 feet this week. Open water fishing below the dams will be a challenge with swift currents. Sauger - Fair: Try a jig tipped with a minnow in the tailwaters of the Lock & Dam. Walleye - Fair: Walleye are moving up to the dams; use jigs tipped with a minnow. Northern Pike - Fair: Northern pike are going on a feed frenzy to prepare for spawning. Fish the warmer shallows in backwaters. Yellow Perch - Good: Usd a small piece of crawler fished from shore.

Mississippi River Pool 10
River level at Lyxnville has risen to 21 feet and will hit 23 feet this week. Open water fishing below the dams will be a challenge with swift currents. Sauger - Fair: Try a jig tipped with a minnow in the tailwaters of the Lock & Dam. Walleye - Fair: Walleye are moving up to the dams; use jigs tipped with a minnow. Northern Pike - Fair: Northern pike are going on a feed frenzy to prepare for spawning. Fish the warmer shallows in backwaters.Yellow Perch - Good: Usd a small piece of crawler fished from shore.

Mississippi River Pool 11
River level at Guttenberg has risen to 12.5 feet and is expected to reach 15 feet this week. Open water fishing below the dams will be a challenge with swift currents. Sauger - Fair: Try a jig tipped with a minnow in the tailwaters of the Lock & Dam. Walleye - Fair: Walleye are moving up to the dams; use jigs tipped with a minnow. Northern Pike - Fair: Northern pike are going on a feed frenzy to prepare for spawning. Fish the warmer shallows in backwaters. Yellow Perch - Good: Usd a small piece of crawler fished from shore.

Upper Mississippi River levels are still rising this week. Ice has gone out quickly, with rising flood waters. Locks are wide open. Anglers are open water fishing at the dams; expect high water, debris and swift current. Water temperature is near 40 degrees.

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
The water level is 12.4 feet at the Dubuque Lock and Dam and 14.4 feet at the RR bridge. River levels at Dubuque are expected to rise to action and moderate flood stages. The water temperature is 42 degrees. Water clarity is still decent. Sauger - Good: It was a good spring bite with anglers reporting all sizes of sauger being taken. Water is getting higher; anglers are concentrating more to toward the shorelines away from the strongest currents. Walleye - Good: Lots of nice slot walleyes reported this spring; the fishery looks to be very healthy. Floating debris is starting to be an issue at times with anglers pulling crankbaits. Northern Pike - Good: Some northern pike are being taken using large spinners and cut bait in backwater areas. Pike are about to spawn in the Mississippi River.

Mississippi River Pool 13
Water level is 13 feet at the Bellevue Lock and Dam and is rising. The water temperature is 42 degrees. Water clarity is good. The DNR boat ramp at Bellevue is difficult to launch from due to high water levels. Sauger - Good: Angler catches have been a mixed bag. Some anglers report nice-sized sauger and walleye. Others report great numbers of fish, but nearly all are small. Walleye - Good:  Lots of nice slot walleyes reported this spring; the fishery looks to be very healthy. Floating debris is starting to be an issue at times with anglers pulling crankbaits. Paddlefish - Fair: Water levels are starting to get high, making it difficult to find paddlefish in the stronger currents. See page 11 of the Iowa Fishing Regulations for paddlefish regulations.

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is 12.2 feet at the Fulton Lock and Dam, 14.8 feet at Camanche and 8.5 feet at LeClaire. Water temperature is around 42 degrees. River levels are rising and will reach action and moderate flood stages by the end of the week. Sauger - Fair:It was a good spring bite with anglers reporting all sizes of sauger being taken. Water is getting higher; anglers are concentrating more to toward the shorelines away from the strongest currents. Paddlefish - Fair: Some paddlefish were taken this week, despite the higher water levels. Strong current flow is limiting snagging of paddlefish. See page 11 of the Iowa Fishing Regulations for paddlefish regulations. Walleye - Good: Anglers are using a variety of tactics to find nice walleye; most are doing best on a simple jig and minnow. Lots of nice slot walleyes reported this spring; the fishery looks to be very healthy. Floating debris is starting to be an issue at times with anglers pulling crankbaits. 

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water level is around 12.6 feet at Rock Island and is rising. The water temperature is around 43 degrees. Water is stained.  

Flooding is returning to the district. Water levels are rising with recent rains and thaw. Part of the district will experience moderate flooding by the end of the week. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-872-4976.

Mississippi River Pool 16
Tailwater stage is 12.59 feet at Lock and Dam 15 in the Quad Cities and is rising. Tailwater stage is forecast to reach 15 feet by Monday. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 15. Docks have been pulled out of the water at the Marquette St boat ramp. We have not received any fishing report information for this pool.

Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage is 11.85 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine and is rising. Tailwater stage is forecast to reach 14.7 feet by next Wednesday. The gates are out of the water at the Lock and Dam. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 16. River stage is 13.53 feet at Muscatine and is forecast to reach 16 feet by Monday. Flood stage is 16 feet at Muscatine. The ramp at Big Timber is closed. We have not received any fishing report information for this pool.

Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage is 13.33 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston and is rising. Tailwater stage is forecast to reach 15 feet by Monday and 16 feet by Wednesday. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 17. The gates are out of the water at the Lock and Dam. River stage is 13.13 feet at Keithsburg; flood stage is 14 feet. The Toolsboro ramp is closed due to high water. We have not received any tailwater fishing reports for this pool this week.

Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage is 9.44 feet at Lock and Dam 18 and is rising. Tailwater stage is forecast to reach 10.1 feet by Saturday and 11.7 feet by Wednesday. Flood stage is 10 feet at Lock and Dam 18. River stage is 14.51 feet at Burlington; flood stage is 15 feet. River stage Madison is 527.67 feet at Fort; flood stage is 528 feet. We have not received any fishing reports or ramp condition reports for this pool.

Current forecasts have the river reaching flood stage over the weekend or by early next week. Main channel water temperature is around 41-42 degrees. Some boat ramps have closed due to the high water. If you have questions on fishing Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.

 

SOUTHEAST

Big Hollow Lake 
Open water. The docks are in at the boat ramps. Channel Catfish - No Report: It’s a good time to fish for catfish along the face of the dam. Largemouth Bass - No Report: Start at the lower end of the lake on the north side where the water is more open to the sunlight and work the points that stick out into the lake.

Lake Belva Deer
Ice free. Docks are always in. Largemouth Bass - No Report: A good place to try for early season bass is along the north side shorelines at the upper end of the lake where there is a rocky bottom.

Lake Darling
Open water. Warm nights and the rain have raised the water temperature to 46 degrees. Docks at ramps are not in yet. Channel Catfish - No Report: Ice-out is a good time to try for catfish. Use cut bait along the rocks with the wind blowing into them. Largemouth Bass - Fair: One of the few boats out caught a few bass while fishing the bays where the wind was blowing warm water into them.

Lake Darling District Farm Ponds
A little over 2.5 inches of rain in the last week has made a lot of these ponds muddy, but that helps keep the lake clearer.

Lost Grove Lake
Open water. Boat docks at the ramps won't be in for a while yet. Channel Catfish - No Report: It’s a good time to fish for catfish along the face of the dam as they look for any fish that didn’t make it through the winter.

For more information on the above lake, call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

 

Coralville Reservoir
The Corps has started to lower the lake to spring pool. As of March 19, the lake level is 680.5 feet. It is predicted to reach spring pool of 679.5 feet on April 1. Boating is not recommended for most above Lake Macbride ramp at spring pool. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use cut bait around the 380/965 bridges. Shallow windblown bays can also be good.

Diamond Lake
The dock/kayak launch are in. Black Crappie - Slow: A few fish have been caught off the jetties. Try small jigs tipped with worms or waxworms.

Lake Macbride
Surface temperatures are in the low 40's. The docks will be put in for the first weekend in April. Black Crappie - Slow: A few fish are being caught east of the causeway, especially on warmer days. Channel Catfish - Slow: Some fish have been caught on dead shad in the upper ends of the lake. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Slow: Fish windblown banks where shad may be found. Muskellunge - Slow: Try bass-sized jerk baits.

Pleasant Creek Lake
Some anglers have been out. No fishing reports are available.

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

Lake Miami
Anglers are catching some largemouth bass along the shore.

Lake Sugema
Use nightcrawlers to catch catfish.

Lake Wapello
Catch catfish with nightcrawlers or cut bait.

Ottumwa Park Pond South (Trout Pond)
The trout event for Saturday, March 28th has been cancelled due to concerns of COVID-19. Trout will still be stocked this spring, but it will be unannounced to reduce crowd size.

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 904.56 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another water body. Channel Catfish - Good: Use nightcrawlers on windblown shores. 

Red Haw Lake
Anglers are catching largemouth bass along the shore. The docks have been put in.

The district includes Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST

Big Creek Lake
Walleye - Fair: Catch walleyes when water temperatures warm into the mid to upper 40s in late March to early April. Use jigs tipped with plastics or live minnows in the evenings along rocky shores. Target the face of the dam, the first few hundred yards of the canal leading to the spillway and the East Boat ramp shore.

Boone District Farm Ponds
Black Crappie - Fair: Many of the community fishing ponds spread throughout the Des Moines Metro will offer a good early season crappie, bluegill and bass bite; they warm faster than the larger lakes. Use live bait under floats or slowly retrieve twister tail and swimbaits. If a pond has any rock shore, try there first. Fish Local signs mark which ponds are open to public fishing.

Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock)
Walleye - Fair: March through April is a good time to target walleye and northern pike below the dams and mouths of creeks. Use jigs tipped with twister tails, shad, and shiner imitating swimbaits or live minnows. 

For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

Greenfield Lake
Greenfield is a good lake to catch ice-out catfish. It also gives anglers a chance to catch a trophy-size channel catfish. Channel Catfish - No Report: Fish shad sides on the wind-blown shore, especially in the upper end of the lake where water warms sooner.

Lake Anita
Lake Anita can provide good fishing this time of year. Fish will move into the upper end of the lake as water temperatures warm. Black Crappie - Slow: Early crappie fishing can be very good on warm sunny days behind the pontoon boats. Cast a minnow two feet under a bobber with a slow retrieve.

Lake Manawa
It’s time to target channel catfish at Lake Manawa. Channel Catfish - Good: Fish the windblown shores with shad sides or cut bait to catch channel catfish of all sizes.

For more information call the SW District Office at 712-769-2587.

Three Mile Lake
Walleye - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished near main lake points for walleyes up to 22 inches.

Lakes are 100% ice free. Water temperature in most Mount Ayr district lakes is in the mid to upper 40's. For more information, contact the Mount Ayr Fisheries office at 641-464-3108.

[Rick]

Iowa Fishing Reports

NORTHWEST

Arrowhead Lake
Bluegill are starting to spawn. Find bluegill beds near shore in gravel and sandy substrate.  Cast a small jig fished under a bobber near these areas to target the males guarding the nests.

Black Hawk Lake
Yellow Perch - Slow. Black Crappie – Fair: Fish anywhere from shore with rock and structure. Use a small jig tipped with crawler or small minnow fished under a bobber along shore in Town Bay, Ice House Point from the inlet bridge and from the floating pier and fish house in Town Bay. Largemouth Bass – Good: Cast traditional bass lures and plastics along shore. You can catch fish anywhere around the lake, but some of the best areas include Ice House point shoreline, inlet bay and bridge area near the outlet, and along Gunshot Hill. Walleye - Slow. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are spawning near rocky shorelines; a variety of baits, including crankbaits, work well. 

Brushy Creek Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Use a small piece of crawler or minnow on a jig fished under a bobber near shore in 5-10 feet of water by rocks or woody structure. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Throw traditional bass lures, plastics or weedless lures near submerged structure and along weed lines. Yellow Perch - Slow. Walleye – Slow. Bluegill - Fair.  Channel Catfish - Fair: Brushy Creek Lake has a low-density population of larger channel catfish. You may not catch high numbers, but the fish you catch will likely be large. Channel catfish are spawning; target these large fish near shore with rocky structure. They are aggressive this time of year; try a variety of cut baits and crankbaits.

North Raccoon River (above State Highway 175 bridge near Auburn)
Rivers water levels are high and turbid from recent rains.

North Twin Lake
Water temperature is the mid-70's with around 3 feet of water clarity. Yellow Bass - Fair: Yellow bass are in close to shore. Use a small jig tipped with a piece of crawler or waxworm fished under a small bobber in 3-6 feet of water near shore. If fishing from boat, you may need to move around to stay on top of fish. Yellow bass are 6-10 inches long. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are numerous in North Twin Lake and are spawning. Use cut baits and crankbaits near shore with rocky structure to catch these aggressive fish. 

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Storm Lake has a daily limit of 3 walleye, and all 17- to 22-inch walleye must be released; no more than one walleye longer than 22 inches may be taken per day. Black Crappie - Fair: The bite has slowed; using crawlers and minnows on a small jig fished in the marina near the inlet and along the north and east shore of the main lake. Walleye - Fair: Anglers have had luck in the main lake.  Boat anglers are catching fish trolling crankbaits in the dredge cuts. Yellow Perch – Fair: Pick up perch along shore in the marina and north and east shores. White Bass - Fair: The bite has been hit or miss. Anglers are picking up white bass from shore and in the main like while trolling. Use twisters, crawlers or crankbaits in the marina, near the inlet and north and east shores in the main lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are abundant in Storm Lake.  They are spawning; try a variety of dip baits, cut baits and crankbaits fished near rocky shores.

Water temperatures are in the mid-70's in the Black Hawk District. Bluegill are starting to spawn in many area lakes and ponds. Bluegill spawning beds can often be seen near shore in gravel and sandy substrate. Cast a small jig fished under a bobber near these areas to target the males guarding the nests.  For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Beeds Lake
Bluegill – Good.  Black Crappie – Good. Yellow Bass – Fair.

Clear Lake
The water temperature is in the low 70's. Walleye - Good: Anglers are catching walleyes drift fishing a jig and crawler near vegetation. Try slip bobber fishing a leech on the rock reefs. Yellow Bass – Fair: Yellow bass are still spawning. The best bite is at first light. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try a piece of cut bait or chicken liver fished on the bottom after sunset. Black Crappie - Slow: Use a small jig or minnow fished in the edge of the rushes.

Crystal Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Use a minnow or small jig near shore and around vegetation. Largemouth Bass - Good. Bluegill - Good.

Lower Pine Lake
Popular fishing spots become crowded in the afternoon; arrive early to avoid crowds.  Don’t park along the west side of the highway.  If the boat trailer parking lot is full, try Upper Pine Lake. Bluegill - Good: Shore anglers are catching good numbers of 4 to 7 inch fish. Black Crappie – Good. Largemouth Bass – Good. Channel Catfish - Good: Try chicken liver or cut bait fished on the bottom near the spillway. 

Silver Lake (Worth)
Largemouth Bass – Good. Bluegill - Good: Cast small jigs or a piece of worm below a bobber.

Upper Pine Lake
Bluegill - Good: Shore anglers are catching good numbers of 4 to 7 inch fish. Largemouth Bass – Good. Black Crappie - Good.

For information on the lakes and rivers in north central Iowa, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

East Okoboji Lake
The walleye season is open. The water temperature is 70 degrees. There is a great panfish bite along the shorelines in the shallows; many fish are bedding, allowing for easy shore and dock fishing. Bluegill – Excellent: Large schools are moving into the shallows to bed and can easily be caught around hoists and docks. Black Crappie – Fair. Yellow Perch – Fair.

Lake Pahoja
Bluegill - Good: Use small jigs tipped with waxworms. Black Crappie - Good: Try small jigs tipped with waxworms. Largemouth Bass - Good: Use rubber worms or other slow moving jigs.

Lost Island Lake
The Palo Alto County Conservation Board is hosting a Virtual Kid's Fishing Derby for ages 15 and under, June 5th-15th. Go to their Facebook page for details. Yellow Perch – Fair. Walleye – Fair.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
Walleye – Good.

Spirit Lake
The walleye season is open. The water temperature is 70 degrees. Walleye and panfish bite has been great. Bluegill - Good: Large schools have been found gathering around hoists and docks. Walleye - Good: Evenings have had fairly good bites; daytime bite is picking up. Black Bullhead - Fair: Anglers have been successful at the north grade.

Trumbull Lake
Yellow Perch - Fair: Size quality is outstanding with some sorting. Use jigs and minnows or wigglers in the main lake.

West Okoboji Lake
The walleye season is open. The water temperature is 70 degrees. A good bass bite has been observed in canal areas, as well a good panfish bite in various harbors and around docks and hoists. Bluegill - Good: Large schools have been found gathering around hoists and docks. Black Crappie - Good. Smallmouth Bass - Fair. Largemouth Bass - Fair:

Iowa Great Lake water temperatures have warmed up quickly and are currently around 70 degrees. The bite is picking up with warmer water temperatures. The panfish bite has taken off throughout the chain of lakes; they are nesting in the shallows along the shoreline. This week’s extended forecast calls for temperatures ranging from 80s to low 90s. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Water levels are up 4 feet and crested after rain early week. Water clarity is poor. Use extreme care when on water in these conditions; water hazards are not visible and could capsize or disable a boat. Go to the USGS Current Conditions website for more information on water levels. Channel Catfish - No Report: Use a nightcrawler or dead chub fished on the bottom out of current.

Decorah District Streams
Many streams are muddy, making it an excellent time to explore new areas to fish. Most should clear by the weekend. All streams are being stocked. All trout stream stockings are unannounced due to COVID-19 precautions. Hatchery grounds are open to the public, but feeders and other conveniences are temporarily closed. Hatchery visitors must be mindful of one another’s safety and keep at least 6 feet of distance between you and others. Brook Trout - Slow: When fishing private property open to angling, leave that property as was or better by picking up trash. Close gates if you opened them; be considerate. Brown Trout - Fair: Blue-winged olive and caddisfly hatches are good to excellent. Afternoon gnat hatches are great. An excellent time to fish for browns is when the water gets cloudy. Use hair jigs or spinners for aggressive fish. Rainbow Trout - Slow: Bite is better where water clarity is better. Try a worm or cheese floated through a pool under a bobber. Use an ultra-light pole and reel for fun action. 

Lake Hendricks
Water clarity is improving with water temperatures in the 70's. Black Crappie - Slow: Find crappie suspended in deeper water around structure. Use a minnow or small lure drifting over structure. Bluegill - Fair: Gills are spooky, especially in clear water. Use care not to scare them when tossing out your rig. Try a small piece of worm on a hook under a small bobber. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Bass are guarding nests. Use a jig tipped with piece of worm or twister tail.

Lake Meyer
Hit and miss activity. Fish mid-afternoon and evening when shadows aren't cast on the water. Water temperatures are in the low 70's. Water clarity is slightly dirty. Black Crappie - Slow. Bluegill - Fair: Try a small piece of worm fished under a bobber. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Bass are guarding nests. Use a jig tipped with a twister tail or worm fished along the shore.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Water levels are above flood stage and extremely muddy. Recreating on this river is not recommended. Go to the USGS Current Conditions website for more information on water levels.

Upper Iowa River (above Decorah)
Water levels are falling with muddy water. Use extreme care when paddling; strong current. Water hazards are not visible when water is dirty. White Sucker - Slow: Try a hook tipped with a nightcrawler fished on the bottom.

Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)
Water levels are falling with muddy water. Use care when paddling; strong current. Water hazards are not visible when water is dirty. White Sucker - Slow: Try a hook tipped with a nightcrawler fished on the bottom. 

Volga Lake
Anglers are finding fish; focus efforts along rocky shoreline and submersed habitat. Good water clarity, but water levels are up with recent rainfall. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill starting to spawn. Use a small hook tipped with waxworm or small piece of nightcrawler fished around brush piles and rocky shores. Largemouth Bass - Good: Use a jig tipped with a ringworm or twister tail. Bass are guarding nests. Channel Catfish - Good: Try a nightcrawler, cheese bait or dead chub fished on the bottom.

Lake fishing may be your best bet for a successful trip after Tuesday/Wednesday's rainfall. Area rivers experienced flash flooding with levels rising from 4 to 11 feet, depending on river. All have crested and are falling. Expect a rain free weekend with temperatures in the 70's for highs and upper 50's for lows. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

Casey Lake (aka Hickory Hills Lake)
Largemouth Bass - Good: Try topwater baits early morning or late evening. Use buzzbaits or spinnerbaits during the daylight hours. Black Crappie - Good: Cast and retrieve colored tube jigs from shore or vertical jigging from a boat near brush piles. Bluegill - Good: Cast and retrieve small tinsel jigs from shore or use a small piece of worm under a slip bobber. Channel Catfish - Good: The bite is on throughout the day. Try chicken livers, stink baits or dead cut baits fished off of the bottom of the lake. 

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
Channel Catfish - Good: The bite is on throughout the day. Try chicken livers, stink baits or dead cut baits fished above snags or log jams. 

Maquoketa River (above Monticello)
The Maquoketa River should be good for channel catfish with the rise in river levels.

Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)
The Shell Rock River should be good for channel catfish with the rise in river levels.

Wapsipinicon River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)
The Wapsipinicon River should be good for channel catfish with the rise in river levels.

Interior rivers are on the rise with the current rainfall. Target channel catfish. There have been no reports on the lakes in and around Black Hawk County. Trout streams are hit and miss in clarity and condition; call ahead for stream conditions. Call the Manchester Hatchery at 563-927-3276 for more information.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9
River level at Lansing has risen to 9.3 feet and is predicted to reach 9.5 feet before leveling off. Water temperature is 74 degrees. New Albin Army road is reopened. Hwy 82, Lansing Bridge is closed until June 15th. Walleye - Fair: Walleyes are biting on crankbaits near the dams and channel border structure. Northern Pike - Good: Northern pike bite has picked up with warmer water temperatures. Use a lure with steel leaders fished in shallow backwaters. Yellow Perch - Fair: Use a small piece of crawler fished just off the bottom near shorelines with slight current. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies are in about 10 feet of water. Use a minnow under a bobber in areas with less current in backwaters or side channels. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass will be on pre-spawn bite as temperatures rise. Cast plastics or blade baits in backwater lakes. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try spinnerbaits fished in rock piles at the tip of the islands on main channel borders. Shovelnose sturgeon - Fair: Some shovelnose are being picked up with a crawler fished off the bottom in main channel areas. Flathead Catfish - Good: Expect the flathead bite to improve near spawning and as the water warms up. Use large shiners or a small bluegill for bait. Channel Catfish - Good: Try nightcrawlers or cut bait fished off the bottom in deeper side channel areas. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are spawing. Use light tackle tipped with small piece of worm along the shorelines.

Mississippi River Pool 10
River level is 18.5 feet at Lyxnville and is expected to reach 19.6 feet. Water temperature is 75 degrees. Sny Magill access is underwater. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are biting on crankbaits near the dams and channel border structure. Northern Pike - Fair: Northern pike bite has picked up with warmer water temperatures. Use lures with steel leaders fished in shallow backwaters. Yellow Perch - Excellent: Use a small piece of crawler fished just off the bottom near shorelines with slight current. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies are in about 10 feet of water. Use a minnow under a bobber in areas with less current in backwaters and side channels. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass will be on pre-spawn bite as temperatures rise. Cast plastics or blade baits in backwater lakes. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try spinnerbaits fished in rock piles at the tip of the islands on main channel borders. Shovelnose sturgeon - Good: Some shovelnose are being picked up using a crawler fished off the bottom in main channel areas. Flathead Catfish - Good: Expect the flathead bite to improve near spawning and as the water warms up. Use large shiners or a small bluegill for bait. Channel Catfish - Good: Try nightcrawlers or cut bait fished off the bottom in deeper side channel areas.  Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are spawning. Use light tackle tipped with small piece of worm along the shorelines.

Mississippi River Pool 11
River level is 10.7 feet at Guttenberg and is expected to reach 11.6 feet this week. Water temperature is near 70 degrees. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are biting on crankbaits near the dams and channel border structure. Northern Pike - Good: Northern pike bite has picked up with warmer water temperatures. Use lures with steel leaders fished in shallow backwaters. Yellow Perch - Excellent: Use a small piece of crawler fished just off the bottom near shorelines with slight current. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies are in about 10 feet of water. Use a minnow under a bobber in areas with less current in backwaters and side channels. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass will be on pre-spawn bite as temperatures rise. Cast plastics or blade baits in backwater lakes. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try spinnerbaits fished in rock piles at the tip of the islands on main channel borders. Shovelnose sturgeon - Fair: Some shovelnose are being picked up with a crawler fished off the bottom in main channel areas. Flathead Catfish - Good: Expect the flathead bite to improve near spawning and as the water warms up. Use large shiners or a small bluegill for bait. Channel Catfish - Good: Try nightcrawlers or cut bait fished off the bottom in deeper side channel areas. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are spawning. Use light tackle tipped with small piece of worm along the shorelines.

Upper Mississippi River levels are predicted to rise this week. Heavy rains have reduced water clarity. Look for the clearer water in backwater sloughs/ lakes. Many fish species are spawning and actively feeding with the water temperatures over 70 degrees. Walleye slot length limits now apply on the entire Mississippi River in Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin waters of Pools 9-12. All walleyes less than 15 inches long and between 20-27 inches long must be released immediately. Only one walleye greater than 27 inches can be kept. Combined walleye/sauger daily harvest limit of 6 and possession of 12.

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
The water level at the Dubuque Lock and Dam is rising and is near 10.1 feet; levels are 12.2 feet at the RR bridge.Water temperature is around 77 degrees. The water clarity is fair. Northern Pike - Excellent: Flashy spinners in warm sun filled waters might trigger these predators. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are on beds. Try a simple bobber and worms. White Crappie - Fair: Crappie are reported out of marina areas and backwaters. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Cut bait is still producing nice channel catfish. Some catfish have started to move along the rock lines to prepare for spawning. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a worm sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Male bass are being caught in large numbers, but the larger females remain a little elusive since they are done spawning. 

Mississippi River Pool 13
Water level is 11.5 feet at the Bellevue Lock and Dam and is rising. The water temperature is 77 degrees. Pleasant Creek Boat ramp is available to use. Water has receded off the boat ramp at Bellevue, but it is still difficult to launch from that ramp.   Channel Catfish - Excellent: Some cats have moved along rock lines and in flooded grass lines to prepare to spawn. White Crappie - Fair: A few crappie are being picked up in backwater areas near dead falls. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a worm sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Northern Pike - Excellent: Try flashy spinners fished along old weed edges and rock shorelines. Largemouth Bass - Good: Male bass are being caught in large numbers, but the larger females are a little elusive since they are done spawning. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill nests can be seen along shorelines in the backwater areas. Flathead Catfish - Good: Flathead catfish are being caught by walleye anglers jigging in the tailwaters or by anglers who are targeting fish with live fish for bait. Walleye - Fair: A few walleyes are being reported near locations where the wing dams meet the shorelines.

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is 11.3 feet at the Fulton Lock and Dam, 13.8 feet at Camanche and 8.3 feet at LeClaire. Water temperature has risen to 77 degrees. The water is turbid. The Corps of Engineers boat ramp at Cattail Slough may still be closed due to high water and debris. Walleye - Fair: Angler are finding some walleyes on wing dams near shore with crankbaits. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Try cut bait in moderate current areas. Look for channel cats to move along the rock lines when spawning gets closer. Freshwater Drum - Good: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a worm sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Largemouth Bass - Good:Male bass are being caught in large numbers, but the larger females are a little elusive since they are done spawning. Northern Pike - Good: Use flashy spinners along backwater shorelines or in the tailwaters for this aggressive fish. Flathead Catfish - Good: Try large live bait to catch big flathead catfish. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are on the spawning beds.  Fish along the weed lines or in pockets of vegetation.

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water level is around 12.5 feet at Rock Island and is stable. The water temperature is around 72 degrees; water is turbid with recent rains. Freshwater Drum - Good: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a worm sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Channel cats are readily biting on cut bait and prepared baits. Flathead Catfish - Good: Try live bait around brush piles or in the tailwater area.

Water level is stable to rising in most locations. There may be some minor debris on boat ramps after recent floods. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-880-8781.

Mississippi River Pool 16
River stage is 11.8 feet at Lock and Dam 15 in Davenport and is forecast to rise. Tailwater stage is forecast to reach 12.9 feet by Saturday. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 15. River stage is 12.49 feet at Fairport; flood stage is 14 feet. Fishing has been slow with high and muddy water conditions. 

Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage is 11.52 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine and is forecast to rise.  Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 16. River stage is 13.39 feet at Muscatine. Flood stage is 16 feet at Muscatine. The gates are out of the water at the dam. The ramps at Big Timber and Kilpeck are closed due to high water. We have not received any fishing report information for this pool. Fishing has been slow with high and muddy water conditions. 

Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage is 13.81 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston and is forecast to reach 14.4 feet over the weekend. Flood stage is 15 feet at Lock and Dam 17. River stage is 13.67 feet at Keithsburg; flood stage is 14 feet. The gates are out of the water at the dam. Toolsboro ramp is closed due to high water. The Hawkeye Dolbee access will most likely have water over it. Fishing has been slow with high and muddy water conditions. 

Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage is 10.4 feet at Lock and Dam 18 and is starting to rise. Flood stage is 10 feet at Lock and Dam 18. Tailwater stage is forecast to reach 11 feet by the end of the weekend. The gates are out of the water at the dam. River stage is 15.49 feet at Burlington; flood stage is 15 feet. River stage is 528.29 feet at Fort Madison; flood stage is 528 feet. We have not received any fishing reports or ramp condition reports for this pool.

River stages had been falling this past week, but are forecast to start rising due to recent heavy rains. Some boat ramps will be underwater. Water clarity is poor. Main channel water temperature is around 74 degrees. Fishing has been slow with high and muddy water conditions. If you have questions on fishing Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.

SOUTHEAST

Big Hollow Lake
Water temperatures are in the upper 70's. Had a total of little over three inches of rain on Tuesday and Wednesday. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Bass fishing was spotty this last weekend.  The rains slowed it down some, but nice weather for the rest of the week should help it pick back up. Bluegill - Excellent: Bluegill fishing was good over the weekend  with lots of nice fish out in 3 to 4 feet of water on the spawning beds. Rain the last couple of days has kept anglers off the lake.

Iowa River (Columbus Junction to Mississippi River)
The Iowa River is just below flood stage on Thursday (6/11) but, is forecast to move into minor flood stage in the next couple of days.

Lake Belva Deer
More than 4 inches of rain on Tuesday made the lake high and muddy. Largemouth Bass - No Report: Bass fishing had been good before all the rain; will need some time before it comes back. Bluegill - Slow: They should still be out at the edges of the weed beds. But in this lake when the water gets muddy they shut off. Channel Catfish - Slow: Concentrate efforts along the rocks as at these water temperatures the catfish are actively spawning. 

Lake Darling
Water temperature is around 80 degrees. Heavy rains on Tuesday made the lake high and muddy. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Bass fishing had been good before the rain made the water muddy; it will take a while to clear it up. Bluegill - Fair: Warm water temperatures means the bluegills are moving on and off the beds quickly. It will be tough to find the active beds when you can't see them. Channel Catfish - Good: Work just out of the the weirs in the in-lake silt dams to catch nice catfish as they wait for the high water to wash food by them.

Lost Grove Lake
Water temperatures are in the mid to upper 70's. The aquatic vegetation is thick this year, but should start to die back some with the hot weather. Largemouth Bass - Good: Work the outer edge of the weed beds or use weedless top water baits like scum frogs or moss bosses to get them out of the pockets. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are on nests; work the edges of the weed beds and any holes you can find in them.

Skunk River (Rose Hill to Coppock)
Lots of rain brought the Skunk River up to minor flooding levels with a fairly strong current.

For more information on the above lakes, call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

 

Central Park Lake
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Most fish are 12-13 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Most fish are smaller, up to 7 inches.

Coralville Reservoir
The lake level is 689.4 feet on 6/11 and is rising. It is predicted to crest around 692.2 feet. Water temperatures are in the mid-70's. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use cut bait in the channel or live bait along rock banks for spawning fish. White Crappie - Slow: Try minnows or jigs around brush piles or along steeper rock banks .

Diamond Lake
All facilities are open. Black Crappie - Fair: Most fish are 8-12 feet down in deeper water around brush or suspended in open water. Try small jigs for these 8-9 inch fish. Bluegill - Good: Use small jigs or worms in the shallows as they are spawning. Many fish are 7-8 inches. Channel Catfish -Good: Try stinkbait or crawlers. After rain events has been best.

Iowa Lake (Iowa Co.)
Water temperature is around 75 degrees. The shoreline is heavily vegetated with aquatic plants. Bluegill - Fair: Look for pockets in the weeds for bedding fish. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try a weedless frog fished in weed lines or over the weeds. Black Crappie - Fair: Target weed lines or drift open water with jigs. Most fish are 9-11 inches. Channel Catfish - Fair: Fish are moving shallower to spawn.

Lake Macbride
Water temperatures are around 75 degrees. The 10 hp outboard maximum limit is in effect. Black Crappie - Slow: Fish are moving back out to summer areas over brush stumps or rock piles. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Look for surface activity towards sunset; try plastics or topwater baits. Walleye - Fair: A lot of small fish are being caught with bigger ones mixed in. Troll crankbaits and live bait rigs in 7-13 feet of water. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Target shallow cover for post-spawn fish. Channel Catfish – Fair: Typical baits are working. Fish will start to move to shallow rock to spawn.

Otter Creek Lake
Docks are in; the bathroom at the ramp is open. The fish cleaning station is open. Bluegill – Good. Yellow Bass – Good.

Pleasant Creek Lake
Walleye - Slow: Use crawlers or plastics fished towards evening. Bluegill – Fair: Some fish are being seen moving shallower. Try small worms or jigs in warmer water areas. Black Crappie - Slow: Some fish are being caught on jigs or minnows in the brush or suspended in the mouths of bays. Keep moving until you find the right area. Fish up to 12 inches are reported. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Slow: Target windblown areas. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try chicken livers and stink bait.

Union Grove Lake
Bathrooms and the fish cleaning station are open. Bluegill - Good:Target shallow bays and brush or pockets in the weeds. Catch fish up to 8 inches. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Most fish are smaller. Walleye - Slow: Some 12-14 inch fish are being caught on crankbaits. Channel Catfish - Slow: Use cut bait. 

Wapsipinicon River (Troy Mills to Oxford Junction)
Bluegill - Fair: Fish are being caught in the backwaters, specifically at Pinicon Ridge.

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

Corydon Reservoir
Bluegill - Good: Try small jigs along the shorelines and the outer edge of the weed line.

Hawthorn Lake
Largemouth Bass - Good: Try crankbaits or spinnerbaits fished along the rip-rapped shorelines. Black Crappie - Good: Use small jigs or jigs and minnows around submerged structure and shorelines.

Lake Miami
Largemouth Bass - Good: Use spinnerbaits along the shorelines. Bluegill - Fair: Try a bobber and worms in shallow areas. Black Crappie - Good: Use small jigs and twister tails along the shore.

Lake Sugema
Black Crappie - Good: Use minnows and jigs around the standing timber and shorelines. Bluegill - Fair: Try worms and a bobber around shorelines and vegetation. 
Largemouth Bass - Good: Use spinnerbaits or crankbaits along rip-rapped shores and around structure.

Lake Wapello
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try jigs and spinnerbaits around structure. Black Crappie - Fair: Use minnows and jigs along rocky shores. Bluegill - Good: Try a worm and bobber around structure and along shorelines.

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 906 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another waterbody. Black Crappie - Fair: Try small jigs and minnows. The lake level rising has affected the crappie spawn; try different depths until you find active fish. Walleye – Fair: Use jig and minnow or nightcrawlers along rock piles or the shoreline. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) – Fair: Try crankbaits along the shoreline and rock piles.

Red Haw Lake
The docks are in. Largemouth Bass - Good: Use spinnerbaits or rubber worms along the shorelines and around structure. Bluegill - Fair: Try a chunk of nightcrawler around structure and around the weed line. 

The district includes Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST

Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake
Rainbow Trout - Good: 1200 surplus rainbow trout were stocked in Ada Hayden on May 21 and another 650 on June 1. Cast small inline spinners and spoons or live minnows and nightcrawlers under floats. Some anglers are having better success by fishing deeper (15 feet), likely due to increased water temperatures. You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. 

Big Creek Lake
Walleye - Fair: Troll live bait rigs or vertical jig with minnows, nightcrawlers, or leeches near points, humps and roadbeds. Target the East Boat ramp bay, the West Boat Ramp bay and the marina to beach area. Bluegill - Good: Cast small jigs or hooks tipped with nightcrawlers under a bobber.

Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock)
Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish and flathead catfish are being caught. Try live bait, stink bait and crawlers.

Don Williams Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Drift or troll panfish jigs out a little deeper on the edges of the treefalls and over sunken pallets. Most crappies are 8.5 to 10 inches. Bluegill - Good: Catch spawning bluegills shallow fishing small jigs tipped with nightcrawlers under a bobber.

Bluegill should be spawning in local ponds and lakes. Check out the Fish Local webpage to find local community fishing lakes. For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

Lake Anita
Crappies were caught around brush piles and the road beds this week. Bluegills are starting to build nests and spawn. Bluegill - Fair: Cast on top of the underwater reefs to find spawning bluegills. Some anglers report catching the larger size bluegills drifting.  Black Crappie - Fair: Crappies have moved to tree piles and along the two road beds in the lake. Largemouth Bass - Good: Anita has a good bass population. Find fish along vegetation edges and around tree piles. 

Lake Manawa
Walleyes are being picked up around the dredge cuts. Channel catfish are being caught on the west shoreline. Channel Catfish - Good: Channel catfish are moving to rocky shorelines to spawn. Walleye - Fair: A few anglers are having good success trolling crankbaits using planner boards. 

Littlefield Lake
Littlefield has good water clarity and a ring of aquatic vegetation. Bluegill - Fair: A few spawning bluegills can still be caught. Fish are also being caught out of the cedar tree piles in the lake. Largemouth Bass - Good: There is a large number of 12 to 14 inch fish in the lake.

Prairie Rose Lake
Bluegill spawn is about over. Water temperature is 80 degrees.  Bluegill - Fair: Find the underwater reefs or spawning beds placed in the lake to find spawning bluegills. Largemouth Bass - Good: A large population of 12 to 14 inch bass offer fun catch and release fishing.

Viking Lake
Black Crappie - Good: Black crappies are being caught in brush piles. Cast a minnow under a bobber to catch 9 to 12 inch crappie. Largemouth Bass - Good: Anglers are catching bass in tree piles using plastics.

For more information on lakes in the Southwest District call the Cold Springs office at 712-769-2587.

Green Valley Lake
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles for largemouth bass up to 20 inches. Black Crappie - Slow: Catch crappie up to 9 inches with jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles. Bluegill - Slow: Catch bluegill up to 7.5 inches with jigs tipped with live bait fished near the fishing jetties or cedar tree brush piles. 

Little River Watershed Lake
Bluegill - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles for bluegill up to 8.5 inches. Largemouth Bass - Good: Catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches with jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles. 

Three Mile Lake
Walleye - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished along the creek channels for walleyes up to 22 inches. Black Crappie - Slow: Catch crappies up to 10 inches with jigs tipped with a minnow fished along the flooded timber. Bluegill - Fair: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles for bluegill of all sizes.

Twelve Mile Creek Lake
Black Crappie - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished along cedar tree brush piles or creek channels for crappie up to 11 inches. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches with jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles. Yellow Perch - Fair: Use jigs tipped with nightcrawlers fished on the main lake flats for yellow perch up to 11 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished along the weed line or cedar tree brush piles for bluegill of all sizes.

Water temperature in most Mount Ayr district lakes is in the upper 70's. For more information, contact the Mount Ayr Fisheries office at 641-464-3108.

[Rick]

IOWA FISHING REPORTS

 

NORTHWEST

Arrowhead Lake
Bluegill - Fair: Find bluegill spawning beds near shore in gravel and sandy substrate.  Cast a small jig fished under a bobber near these areas to target the males guarding the nests.

Black Hawk Lake
Yellow Perch - Slow. Black Crappie – Fair: Fish anywhere from shore with rock and structure. Use a small jig tipped with crawler or small minnow fished under a bobber along shore in Town Bay, Ice House Point from the inlet bridge and from the floating pier and fish house in Town Bay. Largemouth Bass – Fair: Cast traditional bass lures and plastics along shore. You can catch fish anywhere around the lake, but some of the best areas are Ice House point shoreline, inlet bay and bridge area near the outlet, and along Gunshot Hill. Walleye - Slow. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are spawning near rocky shorelines; a variety of baits, including crankbaits, work well. Bluegill – Fair.

Brushy Creek Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Use a small piece of crawler or minnow on a jig fished under a bobber near shore between patches of vegetation in 5-10 feet of water by rocks or woody structure. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Throw traditional bass lures, plastics or weedless lures near submerged structure and along weed lines. Yellow Perch - Slow. Walleye – Slow. Bluegill - Fair.  Channel Catfish - Fair: Brushy Creek Lake has a low-density population of larger channel catfish. You may not catch high numbers, but the fish you catch will likely be large. Channel catfish are spawning; target these large fish near shore with rocky structure. They are aggressive this time of year; try a variety of cut baits and crankbaits.

North Twin Lake
Water temperature is in the upper 70's. Yellow Bass - Fair: Use a small jig tipped with a piece of crawler or waxworm fished under a small bobber in 3-6 feet of water near shore. If fishing from boat, you may need to move around to stay on top of fish. Yellow bass are 6-10 inches long. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are numerous in North Twin Lake and are spawning. Use cut baits and crankbaits near shore with rocky structure to catch these aggressive fish. 

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Storm Lake has a daily limit of 3 walleye, and all 17- to 22-inch walleye must be released; no more than one walleye longer than 22 inches may be taken per day. Black Crappie - Fair: The bite has slowed; use crawlers and minnows on a small jig fished in the marina near the inlet and along the north and east shore of the main lake. Walleye - Fair: Anglers have had luck in the main lake drifting with leeches or crawlers along the dredge cuts and trolling crankbaits. Yellow Perch – Fair: Pick up perch along shore in the marina and north and east shores. White Bass - Fair: The bite has been hit or miss. Anglers are picking up white bass from shore and in the main like while trolling. Use twisters, crawlers or crankbaits in the marina, near the inlet and north and east shores in the main lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are abundant in Storm Lake.  They are spawning; try a variety of dip baits, cut baits and crankbaits fished near rocky shores.

Water temperatures are in the upper 70's in the Black Hawk District. Bluegill are spawning in many area lakes and ponds. Bluegill spawning beds can often be seen near shore in gravel and sandy substrate. Cast a small jig fished under a bobber near these areas to target the males guarding the nests.  For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Beeds Lake
Bluegill – Good: Use a small piece of crawler under a bobber near the shore. Black Crappie – Slow. Yellow Bass – Fair.

Clear Lake
The water temperature is in the mid-70's. Walleye - Good: Anglers are catching walleyes drift fishing a jig and crawler near vegetation. Try slip bobber fishing a leech on the rock reefs. Yellow Bass – Fair: The best bite is at first light. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try a piece of cut bait or chicken liver fished on the bottom after sunset. 

Crystal Lake
Black Crappie - Slow: Use a minnow or small jig near shore and around vegetation. Largemouth Bass - Good. Bluegill - Good: Try a small piece of crawler under a bobber near the shore and around vegetation.

Lower Pine Lake
Popular fishing spots become crowded in the afternoon; arrive early to avoid crowds.  Don’t park along the west side of the highway.  If the boat trailer parking lot is full, try Upper Pine Lake. Bluegill - Good: Shore anglers are catching good numbers of 4 to 7 inch fish. Black Crappie – Good. Largemouth Bass – Good. Channel Catfish - Good: Try chicken liver or cut bait fished on the bottom near the spillway. 

Silver Lake (Worth)
Largemouth Bass – Good. Bluegill - Good: Cast small jigs or a piece of crawler below a bobber.

Upper Pine Lake
Bluegill - Good: Shore anglers are catching good numbers of 4 to 7 inch fish. Largemouth Bass – Good. Black Crappie - Good.

For information on the lakes and rivers in north central Iowa, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

East Okoboji Lake
The walleye season is open. The water temperature is 70 degrees. There is a great panfish bite along the shorelines in the shallows; many fish are bedding, allowing for easy shore and dock fishing. Bluegill – Excellent: Large schools are moving into the shallows to bed and can easily be caught around hoists and docks. Black Crappie – Fair. Yellow Perch – Fair.

Lake Pahoja
Bluegill - Good: Use small jigs tipped with waxworms. Black Crappie - Good: Try small jigs tipped with waxworms. Largemouth Bass - Good: Use rubber worms or other slow moving jigs.

Lost Island Lake
Yellow Perch – Fair. Walleye – Fair.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
Walleye – Good.

Spirit Lake
The walleye season is open. The water temperature is 72 degrees. Walleye and panfish bite has been great. Bluegill - Good: Large schools have been found gathering around hoists and docks. Walleye - Good: Evenings have had fairly good bites; daytime bite is picking up. Black Bullhead - Fair: Anglers have been successful at the north grade.

West Okoboji Lake
The walleye season is open. The water temperature is 70 degrees. The panfish bite has been great. Bluegill - Good: Large schools have been found gathering around hoists and docks. Black Crappie - Good. Smallmouth Bass - Fair. Largemouth Bass - Fair:

Iowa Great Lake water temperatures have warmed up quickly and are  around 70 degrees. The bite is picking up with warmer water temperatures. The panfish bite has taken off throughout the chain of lakes; they are nesting in the shallows along the shoreline. This week’s extended forecast calls for temperatures ranging from the upper 70's to low 80's. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Repairs to the Nashua dam continue after high water. The river level stabilized with improved water clarity. Continue to use caution; underwater hazards may have moved. Go to the USGS Current Conditions website for more information on water levels. Channel Catfish - Good: Use chicken liver or dead chub fished on the bottom out of current. Walleye - Slow: Try a nightcrawler fished in a worm harness or jig tipped with a minnow. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Use a jig tipped with natural colored twister tails and crank or spinnerbaits for bass.

Decorah District Streams
Water clarity is much improved on all streams. All streams are being stocked. All trout stream stockings are unannounced due to COVID-19 precautions. Hatchery grounds are open to the public, but feeders and other conveniences are temporarily closed. Hatchery visitors must be mindful of one another’s safety and keep at least 6 feet of distance between you and others. Brook Trout - Good: When fishing private property open to angling, leave that property as was or better by picking up trash. Close gates if you opened them; be considerate. Brown Trout - Good: Gnat hatches are good to excellent. Afternoon hatches of caddis and may flies have been slow. Pheasant tailed nymphs and bead headed midges working well. Use hair jigs or spinners for aggressive fish. Rainbow Trout - Excellent:Try a worm or cheese floated through a pool under a bobber. Use an ultra-light pole and reel for fun action. Try small crappie or bluegill jigs.

Lake Hendricks
Water clarity is improving with water temperatures in the 70's. Early morning and evening bite are best. Black Crappie - Slow: Find crappie suspended in deeper water around structure. Use a minnow or small lure drifting over structure. Bluegill - Fair: Gills are spooky, especially in clear water. Use care not to scare them when tossing out your rig. Try a small piece of worm on a hook under a small bobber. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Bass are guarding nests. Use a jig tipped with piece of worm or twister tail. Channel Catfish - Fair: With warmer water temperatures, try cheese or stinkbaits. Nightcrawlers will work.

Lake Meyer
Hit and miss activity. Fish early morning and evening when shadows aren't cast on the water. Water temperatures are in the 70's. Water clarity is improving. Black Crappie - Slow. Bluegill - Fair: Try a small piece of worm fished under a bobber. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Bass are guarding nests. Use a jig tipped with a twister tail or worm fished along the shore. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use a nightcrawler fished on the bottom near stumps or other structure. Also try chicken liver or cheese baits.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Water levels have dropped and stabilized. Clarity is improving. Go to the USGS Current Conditions website for more information on water levels. Walleye - Slow: Find fish in deeper holes around brush piles. Toss a jig tipped with a twister tail near a brush pile. 

Upper Iowa River (above Decorah)
Water levels are stabilizing with improved clarity. Use caution when paddling; current remains strong. Water hazards may have moved. Walleye - Fair: Flip a jig with twister tail along a brush pile or rock ledge. White Sucker - Slow: Try a hook tipped with a nightcrawler fished on the bottom.

Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)
Water levels are stabilizing with improved water clarity. Use care when paddling; strong current. Water hazards and stream conditions change fast. Walleye - Fair: Find walleye along current breaks or around log jams. White Sucker - Slow: Try a hook tipped with a nightcrawler fished on the bottom. 

Volga Lake
Lake levels are back to normal. Best bite is early morning or just before dark. Bluegill - Slow: Use a small hook tipped with waxworm or small piece of nightcrawler fished around brush piles and rocky shores. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Use a jig tipped with a ringworm or twister tail. Channel Catfish - Good: Try a nightcrawler, cheese bait or chicken livers fished on the bottom. Best catfishing lake around. Black Crappie - Slow: Use a minnow under a bobber along a rocky shoreline or around brush piles.

Area rivers are recovering from last week’s rain. Most remain high, but are stabilizing. Expect a rainy weekend with temperatures in the 80's for highs and 60's for lows. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

Brinker Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Cast and retrieve colored tube jigs from shore or vertical jig from a boat.

Casey Lake (aka Hickory Hills Lake)
Largemouth Bass - Good: Try topwater baits early morning or late evening. Use buzzbaits or spinnerbaits during the daylight hours. Black Crappie - Fair: Cast and retrieve colored tube jigs from shore or vertical jig from a boat near brush piles. Bluegill - Good: Cast and retrieve small tinsel jigs from shore or use a small piece of worm under a slip bobber. Channel Catfish - Good: The bite is on throughout the day. Try chicken livers, stinkbaits or dead cut baits fished off of the bottom of the lake. 

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
Channel Catfish - Good: The bite is on throughout the day. Try chicken livers, stinkbaits or dead cut baits fished above snags or log jams. Smallmouth Bass – Slow. Walleye – Slow.

Manchester District Streams
Anglers are catching brown trout on area trout streams.

Maquoketa River (above Monticello)
The Maquoketa River should provide good angling opportunities this weekend.

Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)
The Shell Rock River is falling and should provide good angling opportunities this weekend. 

Wapsipinicon River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)
The Wapsipinicon River is falling and should provide good angling opportunities this weekend.

Interior rivers are falling and should provide good angling opportunities this weekend. Target channel catfish. There have been few reports on the lakes in and around Black Hawk County. Trout streams are in great condition. Call the Manchester Hatchery at 563-927-3276 for more information.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9
River level is 9.2 feet at Lansing with a steady fall this week. Water temperature is 74 degrees. New Albin Army road is reopened. Hwy 82, Lansing Bridge is closed until July 2. Use caution at ramps during low water. Lansing Village Creek is shallow near the creek mouth. Heytman's Landing is accessible with shallow drive boats only at this time. Walleye - Fair: Walleyes are biting on crankbaits on wingdams and channel border structure. Northern Pike - Good: Northern pike bite has picked up with warmer water temperatures. Use a lure with steel leaders fished in shallow backwaters. Yellow Perch - Fair: Use a small piece of crawler fished just off the bottom near shorelines with slight current. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies are in about 10 feet of water. Use a minnow under a bobber in areas with less current in backwaters or side channels. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass will be on pre-spawn bite as temperatures rise. Cast plastics or blade baits in backwater lakes. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try spinnerbaits fished in rock piles at the tip of the islands on main channel borders. Shovelnose sturgeon - Fair: Some shovelnose are being picked up with a crawler fished off the bottom in main channel areas. Flathead Catfish - Good: Expect the flathead bite to improve near spawning and as the water warms up. Use large shiners or a small bluegill for bait. Channel Catfish - Good: Try nightcrawlers or cut bait fished off the bottom in deeper side channel areas. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are spawning. Use light tackle tipped with small piece of worm along the shorelines.

Mississippi River Pool 10
River level is 19 feet at Lyxnville and is expected to fall to 15 feet. Water temperature is 73 degrees. Sny Magill access is open. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are biting on crankbaits on wingdams and channel border structure. Northern Pike - Fair: Northern pike bite has picked up with warmer water temperatures. Use lures with steel leaders fished in shallow backwaters. Yellow Perch - Excellent: Use a small piece of crawler fished just off the bottom near shorelines with slight current. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies are in 8-10 feet of water. Use a minnow under a bobber in areas near current breaks in backwaters and side channels. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass will be on pre-spawn bite as temperatures rise. Cast plastics or blade baits in backwater lakes. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try spinnerbaits fished in rock piles at the tip of the islands on main channel borders. Shovelnose sturgeon - Good: Some shovelnose are being picked up using a crawler fished off the bottom in main channel areas. Flathead Catfish - Good: Expect the flathead bite to improve near spawning and as the water warms up. Use large shiners or a small bluegill for bait. Channel Catfish - Good: Try nightcrawlers or cut bait fished off the bottom in deeper side channel areas.  Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are spawning. Use light tackle tipped with small piece of worm along the shorelines.

Mississippi River Pool 11
River level is 11.2 feet at Guttenberg and is expected to fall to 7 feet this week. Water temperature is near 70 degrees. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are biting on crankbaits on wingdams and channel border structure. Northern Pike - Good: Northern pike bite has picked up with warmer water temperatures. Use lures with steel leaders fished in shallow backwaters. Yellow Perch - Excellent: Use a small piece of crawler fished just off the bottom near shorelines with slight current. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies are in about 10 feet of water. Use a minnow under a bobber in areas with less current in backwaters and side channels. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass will be on pre-spawn bite as temperatures rise. Cast plastics or blade baits in backwater lakes. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try spinnerbaits fished in rock piles at the tip of the islands on main channel borders. Shovelnose sturgeon - Fair: Some shovelnose are being picked up with a crawler fished off the bottom in main channel areas. Flathead Catfish - Good: Expect the flathead bite to improve near spawning and as the water warms up. Use large shiners or a small bluegill for bait. Channel Catfish - Good: Try nightcrawlers or cut bait fished off the bottom in deeper side channel areas. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are spawning. Use light tackle tipped with small piece of worm along the shorelines.

Upper Mississippi River levels are expected to fall several feet this week. Fish will be scattered with falling water, but expect them to settle into their regular spots as conditions stabilize. Walleye slot length limits now apply on the entire Mississippi River for Pools 9-12. All walleyes less than 15 inches long and between 20-27 inches long must be released immediately. Only one walleye greater than 27 inches can be kept. Combined walleye/sauger daily harvest limit of 6 and possession of 12.

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
The water levels are stable, but will start to recede later this week. The water level is near 10.8 feet at the Dubuque Lock and Dam and 12.8 feet at the RR bridge.The water temperature has dropped to around 71 degrees with the cool nights, The water clarity is fair. Northern Pike - Excellent: Flashy spinners in warm sun filled waters might trigger these predators. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are on beds. Try a simple bobber and worms. White Crappie - Fair: Crappie are reported around tree falls in backwater areas. Most anglers are using a bobber and small minnow. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Lots of anglers are switching to prepared stinkbaits. Some catfish have started to move along the rock lines to prepare for spawning. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on an egg sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Male bass are being caught in large numbers, but the larger females remain a little elusive since they are done spawning. 

Mississippi River Pool 13
Water level is 11.9 feet at the Bellevue Lock and Dam and is stable. Levels should start to recede later this week. The water temperature has dropped to 72 degrees. Boat ramps at Pleasant Creek, Bulgers Hollow and the Iowa DNR boat ramp at Bellevue are available for use. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Some cats have moved along rock lines. Anglers are switching to prepared stinkbaits. White Crappie - Fair: A few crappie are being picked up in backwater areas near dead falls. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Northern Pike - Excellent: Try flashy spinners fished along old weed edges and rock shorelines. Largemouth Bass - Excellent: Male bass are being caught in large numbers. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill nests can be seen along shorelines in the backwater areas. Flathead Catfish - Good: Flathead catfish are being caught by walleye anglers jigging in the tailwaters or by anglers who are targeting fish with live fish for bait. Walleye - Fair: A few walleyes are being reported near locations where the wing dams meet the shorelines. If the water recedes enough, wingdam fishing may start back up.

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is 11.2 feet at the Fulton Lock and Dam, 13.8 feet at Camanche and 8.2 feet at LeClaire. Water temperature has fallen to 73 degrees. The water is turbid. The Corps of Engineers boat ramp at Cattail Slough in Fulton, Illinois is open for boaters Walleye - Fair: Angler are finding some walleyes on wing dams near shore with crankbaits. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Anglers are switching to prepared stinkbaits. Look for channel cats to move along the rock lines when spawning gets closer. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a worm sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Male bass are being caught in large numbers, but the larger females are a little elusive since they are done spawning. Northern Pike - Good: Use flashy spinners along backwater shorelines or in the tailwaters for this aggressive fish. Flathead Catfish - Good: Try large live bait to catch big flathead catfish. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are on the spawning beds. Fish along the weed lines or in pockets of vegetation.

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water level is around 11.6 feet at Rock Island and is stable. The water temperature has fallen to 73 degrees; water clarity is turbid. Freshwater Drum - Good: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a worm sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Channel cats are readily biting on cut bait and prepared baits. Flathead Catfish - Good: Try live bait around brush piles or in the tailwater area. 
Smallmouth Bass - No Report: Some smallmouth bass may start lurking around the channel rock lines when the river recedes to lower levels.

Water level is stable to falling in most locations. There may be some minor debris on boat ramps after recent floods. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-880-8781.

SOUTHEAST

Big Hollow Lake
Water temperatures are in the upper 70's. Water clarity is good. Duckweed on top of the water will cause some hassles, but not too bad. Largemouth Bass - Good: Early and late in the day bite are best. Work some soft plastics around the big brush piles in 6-8 feet of water. Bluegill - Excellent: Bluegill fishing was good over the weekend with lots of nice fish out in 3 to 4 feet of water on the spawning beds. 

Iowa River (Columbus Junction to Mississippi River)
The Iowa River at Wapello is still running at bank full level. 

Lake Belva Deer
The lake has settled back down after last week's heavy rains. Water temperature is in the mid to upper 70's. Largemouth Bass - Good: Work the flooded timber and around the mounds at the upper end of the lake. Bluegill - Good: Work the edges of the weed beds.

Lake Darling
Water level is still a little high, but water clarity is back to about 3-4 feet. Water temperature had cooled to 77 degrees on Wednesday morning (6/17). Largemouth Bass - Good: Anglers are catching nice bass on topwater baits early and late in the day. Bluegill - Good: The return of better water conditions improved bluegill fishing. Channel Catfish - Good: Work just out of the the weirs in the in-lake silt dams to catch nice catfish as they wait for the high water to wash food by them.

Lost Grove Lake
Water temperatures are in the mid to upper 70's. The aquatic vegetation is thick this year, but should start to die back some with the hot weather. Largemouth Bass - Good: Work the outer edge of the weed beds or use weedless top water baits like scum frogs or moss bosses to get them out of the pockets. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are on nests; work the edges of the weed beds and any holes you can find in them. Some bluegills have finished spawning; find them in the flooded timber out in deeper water.

Skunk River (Rose Hill to Coppock)
The Skunk River dropped several feet this week; just a little over half bank full now.

For more information on the above lakes, call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

 

Central Park Lake
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Most fish are 12-13 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Most fish are smaller, up to 7 inches.

Coralville Reservoir
The lake level is 696.3 feet on 6/18 (normal summer pool is 683 feet) and is predicted to start slowly falling. Water temperatures are in the mid-70's. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use cut bait in the channel or live bait along rock banks for spawning fish. White Crappie - Slow: Try minnows or jigs around brush piles or along steeper rock banks .

Diamond Lake
All facilities are open. Black Crappie - Fair: Most fish are 8-12 feet down in deeper water around brush or suspended in open water. Try small jigs for these 8-9 inch fish. Bluegill - Good: Use small jigs or worms in the shallows as they are spawning. Many fish are 7-8 inches. Channel Catfish -Good: Try stinkbait or crawlers. After rain events has been best.

Iowa Lake (Iowa Co.)
Water temperature is around 75 degrees. The shoreline is heavily vegetated with aquatic plants. Bluegill - Fair: Look for pockets in the weeds for bedding fish. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try a weedless frog fished in weed lines or over the weeds. Black Crappie - Fair: Target weed lines or drift open water with jigs. Most fish are 9-11 inches. Channel Catfish - Fair: Fish are moving shallower to spawn.

Lake Macbride
Water temperatures are around 75 degrees. The 10 hp outboard maximum limit is in effect. Black Crappie - Slow: Fish are moving back out to summer areas over brush stumps or rock piles. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Look for surface activity towards sunset; try plastics or topwater baits. Walleye - Fair: A lot of small fish are being caught with bigger ones mixed in. Troll crankbaits and live bait rigs in 7-13 feet of water. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Target shallow cover for post-spawn fish. Channel Catfish – Fair: Typical baits are working. Fish will start to move to shallow rock to spawn.

Otter Creek Lake
Docks are in; the bathroom at the ramp is open. The fish cleaning station is open. Bluegill – Good. Yellow Bass – Good.

Pleasant Creek Lake
Walleye - Slow: Use crawlers or plastics fished towards evening. Bluegill – Fair: Some fish are being seen moving shallower. Try small worms or jigs in warmer water areas. Black Crappie - Slow: Some fish are being caught on jigs or minnows in the brush or suspended in the mouths of bays. Keep moving until you find the right area. Fish up to 12 inches are reported. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Slow: Target windblown areas. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try chicken livers and stinkbait.

Union Grove Lake
Bathrooms and the fish cleaning station are open. Bluegill - Good:Target shallow bays and brush or pockets in the weeds. Catch fish up to 8 inches. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Most fish are smaller. Walleye - Slow: Some 12-14 inch fish are being caught on crankbaits. Channel Catfish - Slow: Use cut bait. 

Wapsipinicon River (Troy Mills to Oxford Junction)
Bluegill - Fair: Fish are being caught in the backwaters, specifically at Pinicon Ridge.

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

Hawthorn Lake
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try areas along the fishing jetties and the face of the dam.
Bluegill - Fair: Use small jigs around the fishing jetties and rip-rapped shorelines.

Lake Miami
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Target areas along the dam and the cedar tree piles. Bluegill - Fair: Try small jigs around the fishing jetties.

Lake Sugema
Channel Catfish - Fair: Use nightcrawlers or chicken liver. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try areas along the fishing jetties.

Lake Wapello
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Target the cedar tree piles and any structure along the shorelines. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try nightcrawlers or chicken liver.

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 905.18 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another waterbody. Walleye – Fair: Troll or drift nightcrawlers around rock piles and submerged structure. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) – Fair: Try vertically jigging around rock piles and underwater islands.

The district includes Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST

Big Creek Lake
Walleye - Fair: Troll live bait rigs or vertical jig with minnows, nightcrawlers, or leeches near points, humps and roadbeds. Target the East Boat ramp bay, the West Boat Ramp bay and the marina to beach area. Bluegill - Good: Cast small jigs or hooks tipped with nightcrawlers under a bobber. Black Crappie - Fair: Drift or troll jigs with twister or paddle tails down 3 to 6 feet in the upper half of the lake. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Cast or troll shad imitating spoons, crankbaits or plastics. There are many 18-21 inch wipers in Big Creek.

Boone District Community Fishing Ponds
Largemouth Bass - Good: Vegetation starts to become abundant in some community fishing ponds this time of year. Try weedless frogs; they rarely get stuck in vegetation. Also try green pumpkin colored weightless worms. Bluegill - Excellent:  Bluegills are being caught on a variety of lures. Try a 1/16 oz black jig tipped with a piece of artificial worm or nightcrawler, 12-16 inches under a bobber. Start near structure like logs or trees as well as the edges of the weeds; move often until you find them. Channel Catfish - Slow: Use chicken livers or stinkbait in ponds and rivers.

Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock)
Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish and flathead catfish are being caught. Try live bait, stinkbait and crawlers.

Don Williams Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Drift or troll panfish jigs out a little deeper on the edges of the treefalls and over sunken pallets. Most crappies are 8.5 to 10 inches. Bluegill - Good: Catch spawning bluegills shallow fishing small jigs tipped with nightcrawlers under a bobber.

Bluegill should be spawning in local ponds and lakes. Check out the Fish Local webpage to find local community fishing lakes. For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

Lake Anita
Crappies were caught around brush piles and the road beds this week. Bluegill - Fair: Cast on top of the underwater reefs to find spawning bluegills. Some anglers report catching the larger size bluegills drifting.  Black Crappie - Fair: Crappies have moved to tree piles and along the two road beds in the lake. Largemouth Bass - Good: Anita has a good bass population. Find fish along vegetation edges and around tree piles. 

Lake Manawa
Walleyes are being picked up around the dredge cuts. Channel catfish are being caught on the west shoreline. Channel Catfish - Good: Channel catfish are moving to rocky shorelines to spawn. Walleye - Fair: A few anglers are having good success trolling crankbaits using planner boards. Don't overlook running a crawler through the dredge cuts. 

Littlefield Lake
Littlefield has good water clarity and a ring of aquatic vegetation. Bluegill - Fair: A few spawning bluegills can still be caught. Fish are also being caught out of the cedar tree piles in the lake. Largemouth Bass - Good: There is a large number of 12 to 14 inch fish in the lake.

Prairie Rose Lake
Bluegill can still be found spawning. Anglers report catching channel catfish around the reefs. Water temperature is 80 degrees. Bluegill - Fair: Find the underwater reefs or spawning beds placed in the lake to find spawning bluegills. Channel Catfish - Good: Channel catfish are being caught around the jetties and underwater reefs. Fish average 2 to 4 pounds. Largemouth Bass - Good: A large population of 12 to 14 inch bass offer fun catch and release fishing. 

Viking Lake
Viking Lake is six feet low. Black Crappie - Fair: Black crappies are being caught in brush piles. Cast a minnow under a bobber to catch 9 to 12 inch crappie. Largemouth Bass - Good: Anglers are catching bass in tree piles using plastics.

For more information on lakes in the Southwest District call the Cold Springs office at 712-769-2587.

Green Valley Lake
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles for largemouth bass up to 20 inches. Black Crappie - Slow: Catch crappie up to 9 inches with jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles. Bluegill - Slow: Catch bluegill up to 7.5 inches with jigs tipped with live bait fished near the fishing jetties or cedar tree brush piles. 

Little River Watershed Lake
Bluegill - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles for bluegill up to 8.5 inches. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches with jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles or along weed lines. 

Three Mile Lake
Walleye - Good: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished along the creek channels for walleyes up to 22 inches. Black Crappie - Slow: Catch crappies up to 10 inches with jigs tipped with a minnow fished along the flooded timber. Bluegill - Fair: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles for bluegill of all sizes.

Twelve Mile Creek Lake
Black Crappie - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished along cedar tree brush piles or creek channels for crappie up to 11 inches. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches with jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles. Yellow Perch - Fair: Use jigs tipped with nightcrawlers fished on the main lake flats for yellow perch up to 11 inches. Bluegill - Good: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished along the weed line or cedar tree brush piles for bluegill of all sizes.

Water temperature in most Mount Ayr district lakes is in the upper 70's to low 80's. For more information, contact the Mount Ayr Fisheries office at 641-464-3108.

[Rick]

NORTHWEST

Arrowhead Lake
Bluegill - Fair: Cast a small jig fished under a bobber near submerged structure along shore in 5-10 feet of water. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Cast traditional bass lures near submerged woody structure throughout the lake and along weed lines in the southern part of the lake. 

Black Hawk Lake
Yellow Perch - Slow. Largemouth Bass – Fair: Cast traditional bass lures and plastics along shore. You can catch fish anywhere around the lake, but some of the best areas are Ice House point shoreline, inlet bay and bridge area near the outlet, and along Gunshot Hill. Walleye - Slow. Channel Catfish - Fair:Try cut bait, dip baits or crankbaits fished near shore. Bluegill – Fair.

Brushy Creek Lake
Surface water temperatures are around 75 degrees.  There is around 10 feet of water clarity. Black Crappie - Fair: Use a small piece of crawler or minnow on a jig either drifting or fished under a bobber near submerged woody structure. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Throw traditional bass lures, plastics or weedless lures near submerged structure and along weed lines. Yellow Perch - Slow. Walleye – Slow. Bluegill - Fair.  Channel Catfish - Fair: Brushy Creek Lake has a low-density population of larger channel catfish. Target these larger fish near shore with rocky structure using a variety of cut baits and crankbaits.

North Twin Lake
Water temperature is in the mid-70's. Yellow Bass - Fair: Use a small jig tipped with a piece of crawler or waxworm fished under a small bobber in 3-6 feet of water near shore. If fishing from boat, you may need to move around to stay on top of fish. Yellow bass are 6-10 inches long. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are numerous in North Twin Lake. Use cut baits and crankbaits near shore with rocky structure. 

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Water temperatures are in the mid-70's. Water clarity is 3-5 feet. Storm Lake has a daily limit of 3 walleye, and all 17- to 22-inch walleye must be released; no more than one walleye longer than 22 inches may be taken per day. Walleye - Fair: Anglers have had luck in the main lake drifting with leeches or crawlers along the dredge cuts and trolling crankbaits. Yellow Perch – Fair: Pick up perch along shore in the marina and north and east shores. White Bass - Fair: Pick up white bass from shore and in the main like while trolling. Use twisters, crawlers or crankbaits in the marina, near the inlet and north and east shores in the main lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are abundant in Storm Lake. Try a variety of dip baits, cut baits and crankbaits fished near shore.

Water temperatures are in the mid to upper 70's in the Black Hawk District. For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Beeds Lake
Bluegill – Good: Use a small piece of crawler under a bobber near the shore. Black Crappie – Slow. Yellow Bass – Fair.

Clear Lake
The water temperature is in the upper 70's. Walleye - Good: Anglers are catching walleyes drift fishing a jig and crawler near vegetation. Try slip bobber fishing a leech or crawler on the rock reefs. Yellow Bass – Slow: The best bite is at first light. Channel Catfish - Good: Float a crawler under a bobber along a rocky shoreline. Boat anglers should try bouncing a jig and crawler on the rock reefs.

Crystal Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Drift fish a minnow or small jig near the dredge cut. Largemouth Bass - Good. Bluegill - Fair: Try a small piece of crawler under a bobber near the shore.

Lake Cornelia
Bluegill - Fair: Channel Catfish - Fair: Try a frog fished along the rocky shoreline.

Lower Pine Lake
Popular fishing spots get crowded in the afternoon; arrive early to avoid crowds.  Don’t park along the west side of the highway.  If the boat trailer parking lot is full, try Upper Pine Lake. Bluegill - Good: Shore anglers are catching good numbers of 4 to 7 inch fish. Black Crappie – Fair. Largemouth Bass – Good. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try a crawler or live bait near the spillway.

Upper Pine Lake
Bluegill - Good: Shore anglers are catching good numbers of 4 to 7 inch fish. Largemouth Bass – Good. Black Crappie - Fair.

For information on the lakes and rivers in north central Iowa, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

East Okoboji Lake
The walleye season is open. The water temperature is 71 degrees. There is a great panfish bite that is moving further out into deeper water post-spawn. Bluegill – Excellent: Large schools are moving into the shallows to bed and can easily be caught around hoists and docks. Black Crappie – Fair. Yellow Perch – Good: A good open water bite has started to pick up.

Lake Pahoja
Bluegill - Good: Use small jigs tipped with waxworms. Black Crappie - Good: Try small jigs tipped with waxworms. Largemouth Bass - Good: Use rubber worms or other slow moving jigs.

Lost Island Lake
Yellow Perch – Fair. Walleye – Fair.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
Walleye – Good.

Spirit Lake
The walleye season is open. A great walleye and yellow perch bite has been seen lately with many yellows over 10 inches being caught. The water temperature is 76 degrees. Bluegill - Good: Schools are starting to move deeper off shore post-spawn. Walleye - Good: A fairly good bite lately can also be seen from shore. Try bottom bouncers or crankbaits to cover more water. Black Bullhead - Fair: Anglers have been successful at the north grade. Yellow Perch - Good: The bite has really picked up; fish are a little deeper than what can be easily fished from shore. Try small humps in the main basin or weed edges. 

West Okoboji Lake
The walleye season is open. The water temperature is 77 degrees. The panfish bite has been great. Bluegill - Good: Schools are starting to move deeper off shore. Try fishing in about 16 feet of water in the weeds or weed lines. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Find smallmouth bass on rock piles or on the points.. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Find largemouth bass on the weed lines. Yellow Perch - Fair: Schools have started to move deeper off shore.

Iowa Great Lake water temperatures have warmed up quickly and are a little warmer than 75 degrees, and should continue to rise with a warmer forecast. This week’s extended forecast calls for temperatures ranging from the upper 80's to low 90's. Use caution fishing this weekend; it may be much harder than usual with the large amount of 4th of July pleasure boat traffic. Stay safe and have a great 4th! For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Repairs to the Nashua dam continue as water levels and flows drop. Water levels are falling. Clarity is improving. Use caution; underwater hazards may have moved. Go to the USGS Current Conditions website for more information on water levels. Channel Catfish - Good: Use chicken liver and stinkbaits or dead chub fished on the bottom out of current. Walleye - Good: The bite is picking up with clearer water. Use a jig tipped with a bright plastic tail for quick action. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Anglers are finding quite a few small ones. Use a jig tipped with natural colored twister tails and crank or spinnerbaits for bass.

Decorah District Streams
Wild parsnip is coming on strong. Avoid touching this plant; it causes painful blisters. All streams are being stocked. All trout stream stockings are unannounced due to COVID-19 precautions. Hatchery grounds are open to the public, but feeders and other conveniences are temporarily closed. Hatchery visitors must be mindful of one another’s safety and keep at least 6 feet of distance between you and others. Brook Trout - Good: When fishing private property open to angling, leave that property as was or better by picking up trash. Close gates if you opened them; be considerate. Brown Trout - Good: More terrestrials are out. Use beetles or other bright flies fished along grassed edges. Afternoon hatches of caddis and may flies have been slow. Pheasant tailed nymphs and bead headed midges work well. Use hair jigs or spinners for aggressive fish. Rainbow Trout - Excellent:Try a worm or cheese floated through a pool under a bobber. Use an ultra-light pole and reel for fun action. Try small crappie or bluegill jigs.

Lake Hendricks
Aquatic vegetation is coming on strong. Early morning and evening bite are best. Black Crappie - Slow: Find crappie suspended in deeper water around structure. Use a minnow or small lure drifting over structure. Bluegill - Fair: Try a small piece of worm on a hook under a small bobber. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use topwater lures or weedless hooks fished along the weed edges.Channel Catfish - Fair: With warmer water temperatures, try cheese or stinkbaits. Nightcrawlers will work.

Lake Meyer
Hit and miss activity. Water clarity is excellent. Fish bite better any time of the day with off-color water. Fish early morning and evening when shadows aren't cast on the water. Black Crappie - Fair: Use a small spinnerbait tossed along a steep depth change. Bluegill - Fair: Try a small piece of worm fished under a bobber. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use a jig tipped with a twister tail or worm fished along the shore. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use a nightcrawler fished on the bottom near stumps or other structure. Also try chicken liver or cheese baits.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Water levels are falling, but are high with improved clarity. Go to the USGS Current Conditions website for more information on water levels. Walleye - Good: Find walleye in deeper holes around brush piles. Toss a jig tipped with a twister tail near a brush pile. 

Upper Iowa River (above Decorah)
Water levels are high, but are falling with improved clarity. Current remains strong. Water hazards may have moved. Walleye - Good: Flip a jig with twister tail along a brush pile or rock ledge. White Sucker - Slow: Try a hook tipped with a nightcrawler fished on the bottom.

Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)
Water levels are high, but are falling with improved clarity. Strong current; water hazards and stream conditions change fast. Walleye - Good: Find walleye along current breaks or around log jams. White Sucker - Slow: Try a hook tipped with a nightcrawler fished on the bottom. 

Volga Lake
Best bite is early morning or just before dark. Bluegill - Slow: Use a small hook tipped with waxworm or small piece of nightcrawler fished around brush piles and rocky shores. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Use a jig tipped with a ringworm or twister tail. Channel Catfish - Good: Try a nightcrawler, cheese bait or chicken livers fished on the bottom. Best catfishing lake around. Black Crappie - Slow: Use a minnow under a bobber along a rocky shoreline or around brush piles.

Area rivers and streams water levels are falling, but flows remain high. Water clarity is much improved. Expect a hot, humid weekend with temperatures in the upper 80's for highs and upper 60's for lows. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9
River level is 9.1 feet at Lansing with a slight rise predicted this week. Water temperature is 79 degrees. New Albin Army road is reopened. Hwy 82, Lansing Bridge is closed. Use caution at ramps during low water. Lansing Village Creek is shallow near the creek mouth. Heytman's Landing is accessible with shallow drive boats only. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are biting on crankbaits on wing dams and channel border structure. Northern Pike - Good: Try in areas of colder streams and springs entering the Mississippi River. Yellow Perch - Fair: Use a small piece of crawler fished just off the bottom near shorelines with slight current. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies are in about 10 feet of water. Use a minnow under a bobber in areas with less current in backwaters or side channels. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass will be on pre-spawn bite as temperatures rise. Cast plastics or blade baits in backwater lakes. Smallmouth Bass - Excellent: Try spinnerbaits fished in rock piles at the tip of the islands on main channel borders. Shovelnose sturgeon - Fair: Some shovelnose are being picked up with a crawler fished off the bottom in main channel areas. Flathead Catfish - Fair: Flathead bite has slowed, but some are being caught on shiners or a small bluegill for bait. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Try nightcrawlers or cut bait fished off the bottom in deeper side channel areas. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are spawning. Use light tackle tipped with small piece of worm along the shorelines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Use a crawler fished on the bottom along current breaks.

Mississippi River Pool 10
River level is 617.2 feet at Lynxville and is expected to rise to 618.8 feet this week. Water temperature is 80 degrees. Sny Magill access is open, but water may be over the road with a bump up in water levels.. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are biting on crankbaits on wing dams and channel border structure. Northern Pike - Excellent: Try in areas of colder streams and springs entering the Mississippi River. Yellow Perch - Excellent: Use a small piece of crawler fished just off the bottom near shorelines with slight current. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies are in 8-10 feet of water. Use a minnow under a bobber in areas near current breaks in backwaters and side channels. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass will be on pre-spawn bite as temperatures rise. Cast plastics or blade baits in backwater lakes. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try spinnerbaits fished in rock piles at the tip of the islands on main channel borders. Shovelnose sturgeon - Good: Some shovelnose are being picked up using a crawler fished off the bottom in main channel areas. Flathead Catfish - Fair: Flathead bite has slowed, but some are still being caught on shiners or a small bluegill for bait. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Try nightcrawlers or cut bait fished off the bottom in deeper side channel areas.  Bluegill - Excellent: Bluegills are spawning. Use light tackle tipped with small piece of worm along the shorelines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Try a crawler fished on the bottom along current breaks.

Mississippi River Pool 11
River level is 8.4 feet at Guttenberg and is predicted to reach 9.6 feet this week. Water temperature is in the mid to upper 70's. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are biting on crankbaits on wing dams and channel border structure. Northern Pike - Excellent: Try in areas of colder streams and springs entering the Mississippi River. Yellow Perch - Fair: Use a small piece of crawler fished just off the bottom near shorelines with slight current. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies are in about 10 feet of water. Use a minnow under a bobber in areas with less current in backwaters and side channels. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass will be on pre-spawn bite as temperatures rise. Cast plastics or blade baits in backwater lakes. Smallmouth Bass - Excellent: Try spinnerbaits fished in rock piles at the tip of the islands on main channel borders. Shovelnose sturgeon - Fair: Some shovelnose are being picked up with a crawler fished off the bottom in main channel areas. Flathead Catfish - Fair: Flathead bite has slowed, but some are still being caught on shiners or a small bluegill for bait. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Try nightcrawlers or cut bait fished off the bottom in deeper side channel areas. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are spawning. Use light tackle tipped with small piece of worm along the shorelines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Try a crawler fished on the bottom along current breaks.

Upper Mississippi River levels have bumped up this week, but are predicted to level off late in the week. Water clarity has improved. Walleye slot length limits now apply on the entire Mississippi River for Pools 9-12. All walleyes less than 15 inches long and between 20-27 inches long must be released immediately. Only one walleye greater than 27 inches can be kept. Combined walleye/sauger daily harvest limit of 6 and possession of 12.

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
Water levels are stable, but will start to rise slightly later this week. The water level is near 8.5 feet at the Dubuque Lock and Dam and 10.7 feet at the RR bridge.The water temperature is around 78 degrees. The water clarity is good. Northern Pike - Excellent: Flashy spinners in warm sun filled waters might trigger these predators. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are still on the spawning beds. Try a simple bobber and worms. White Crappie - Fair: Crappie are reported around tree falls in backwater areas. Most anglers are using a bobber and small minnow. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Lots of anglers are switching to prepared stinkbaits. Some catfish have started to move along the rock lines to prepare for spawning. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on an egg sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass are being taken mostly along vegetation lines, but some are also coming off rock piles. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Some smallies have moved in along the rock piles; use flashy spoons or crankbaits.

Mississippi River Pool 13
Water level is 9.4 feet at the Bellevue Lock and Dam and is expected to rise a half foot later this week. The water temperature is 78 degrees. Boat ramps at Pleasant Creek, Bulgers Hollow and the Iowa DNR boat ramp at Bellevue are available to use. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Some cats have moved along rock lines. Anglers are switching to prepared stinkbaits. White Crappie - Fair: A few crappie are being picked up in backwater areas near dead falls. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Northern Pike - Excellent: Try flashy spinners fished along old weed edges and rock shorelines. Largemouth Bass - Excellent: Male bass are being caught in large numbers. Bluegill - Good: Bluegill nests can be seen along shorelines and vegetation edges in the backwater areas. Flathead Catfish - Good: Use live fish for bait. Lots of trot lines are being set. Walleye - Fair: Wing dam fishing for walleyes is expected to start up if water recedes just a bit.

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is 9.1 feet at the Fulton Lock and Dam, 12.2 feet at Camanche and 7.2 feet at LeClaire. Water temperature is 78 degrees. Water clarity is fair. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Anglers are switching to prepared stinkbaits. Look for channel cats to move along the rock lines when spawning gets closer. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a worm sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Small bass are being caught in big numbers. Northern Pike - Good: Use flashy spinners along backwater shorelines or in the tailwaters for this aggressive fish. Flathead Catfish - Good: Try large live bait to catch big flathead catfish. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are on the spawning beds. Fish along the weed lines or in pockets of vegetation. Walleye - Fair: Wing dam fishing for walleyes is expected to start up if water recedes just a bit.

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water level is around 10.4 feet at Rock Island and is stable. Expect water levels to rise slightly later in the week. The water temperature is 78 degrees; water clarity is improving. Freshwater Drum - Good: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a worm sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Channel cats are readily biting on cut bait and prepared baits. Flathead Catfish - Good: Try live bait around brush piles or in the tailwater area. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Some smallmouth bass may start lurking around the channel rock lines when the river recedes to lower levels.

Water level is expected to bump up slightly later in the week. Most areas are back to being usable after spring high water. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-880-8781.

 

SOUTHEAST

Big Hollow Lake
Lots and lots of rain this week made the water muddy. Not many anglers out on the lake. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Unstable weather with summer heat shuts the bass down until it evens out some. Bluegill - Fair: Most bluegills have moved off the beds and are out in 6 to 8 feet of water.

Iowa River (Columbus Junction to Mississippi River)
The Iowa River is dropping pretty fast, but isn't forecast to be below minor flood stage until the middle if next week.

Lake Belva Deer
Water temperature is 79-80 degrees. Water is green from planktonic algae bloom. Curlyleaf pondweeds have died off. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Summer patterns have set up. Try early or late in the shallows; most of the day they are out in deeper water. Bluegill - Fair: Move out to the deeper water (16 to 18 feet) out around the trees. Black Crappie - Fair: Slow trolling at the lower end of the lake early in the morning or late evening as the sun goes down. 

Lake Darling
Heavy rains last weekend made the lake high and muddy.  Water level has gone back down; the water is trying to clear. Water temperature is 80 degrees. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Muddy water will slow down the sight feeding fish. Bluegill - Fair: You can still catch bluegills on worm and bobber; most have moved out to 5 to 7 feet of water.  Channel Catfish - Good: When it rains, head for the wiers in the in-lake silt dams; catfish wait just off the sides for food to come through on the current. Black Crappie - Slow: Anglers are picking up a few crappies slowly drift trolling in 10 to 12 feet of water; bite will improve as the water clears.

Lost Grove Lake
Water temperatures are around 80 degrees. Water clarity is still good with a little green color; weed beds are dying back. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Bass fishing has slowed a bit; most fish are heading to deeper water for the summer. Bluegill - Good: A majority of the bluegills have moved off into 10-15 feet of water. Try small jigs tipped with waxworms or red wigglers. Some bluegills have finished spawning; find them in the flooded timber out in deeper water.

Skunk River (Rose Hill to Coppock)
The water level in the Skunk River dropped this week with it returning to just above half-bank full. Channel Catfish - Fair: Bite should pick up as the water level gets more stable.  Don't forget to fish under any mulberries that you find hanging over the river.

For more information on the above lakes, call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

 

Coralville Reservoir
The lake level crested at 702.4 feet on 7/01 (normal summer pool is 683 feet) and is predicted to start falling. Mehaffey Bridge ramp is the only open ramp.

Diamond Lake
All facilities are open. Black Crappie - Fair: Most fish are 8-12 feet down in deeper water around brush or suspended in open water. Try small jigs for these 8-9 inch fish. Bluegill - Fair: Most fish have moved off the bank after the spawn and are being caught a bit deeper on small jigs or worms. Channel Catfish -Good: Try stinkbait or crawlers. After rain events has been best.

Lake Macbride
The 10 hp outboard maximum limit is in effect. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Look for surface activity towards sunset; try plastics or topwater baits. Walleye - Slow: Troll crankbaits and live bait rigs in 7-13 feet of water. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Target shallow cover for post-spawn fish. Bluegill - Fair: Try small jigs or worms in rock islands or rock reefs. Channel Catfish - Fair: Live bait works best. Some fish are spawning around shallow rock.

Otter Creek Lake
Docks are in; the bathroom at the ramp is open. The fish cleaning station is open. Bluegill – Good: Try small jigs or worms around brush piles. Yellow Bass – Good: Use small jigs, spinners or live bait. Channel Catfish - Fair: Look for spawning fish near rocky shores. Black Crappie - Fair: Most fish are small.

Pleasant Creek Lake
Walleye - Slow: Use crawlers or plastics fished towards evening. Bluegill – Fair: Most fish have moved a bit deeper. Try small worms or jigs. Channel Catfish - Fair: Typical baits such as stinkbait or crawlers work well. Some spawning fish are in the shallow rocks. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Slow: Target windblown areas or look for surface activity in the evening. Muskellunge - Fair: Cloudy or rainy days have had the fish active.

Sand Lake
This is the quarry on the east side of Marshalltown. Channel Catfish – Good.  Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) – Fair.

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

Hawthorn Lake
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try areas along the fishing jetties and the face of the dam.
Bluegill - Fair: Use small jigs around the fishing jetties and rip-rapped shorelines.

Lake Miami
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use spinnerbaits or crankbaits along the dam and the cedar tree piles. Bluegill - Fair: Try small jigs with a small chunk of nightcrawler around the fishing jetties.

Lake Sugema
Channel Catfish - Fair: Use nightcrawlers or chicken liver. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try spinnerbaits or crankbaits along the fishing jetties and other rip-rapped areas. Use topwaters early and late in the day.

Lake Wapello
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use spinnerbaits or rubber worms along the cedar tree piles and any structure along the shorelines. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try nightcrawlers or chicken liver.

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 905.08 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another waterbody. Walleye – Fair: Troll or drift nightcrawlers around rock piles and submerged structure. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) – Fair: Try vertically jigging around rock piles and underwater islands.

The district includes Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST

Big Creek Lake
Walleye - Fair: Troll live bait rigs or vertical jig with minnows, nightcrawlers, or leeches near points, humps and roadbeds. Target the East Boat ramp bay, the West Boat Ramp bay and the marina to beach area. Black Crappie - Fair: Drift or troll jigs with twister or paddle tails down 3 to 6 feet in the upper half of the lake. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Cast or troll shad imitating spoons, crankbaits or plastics. There are many 18-21 inch wipers in Big Creek.

Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock)
Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish and flathead catfish are being caught. Try live bait, stinkbait and crawlers.

Des Moines River (Stratford to Saylorville Lake)
Channel Catfish - Good: Try stinkbaits or cut bait fished in or just upstream of tree falls.

Don Williams Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Drift or troll panfish jigs out a little deeper on the edges of the treefalls and over sunken pallets. Most crappies are 8.5 to 10 inches. Bluegill - Good: Catch spawning bluegills shallow fishing small jigs tipped with nightcrawlers under a bobber.

For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

Lake Anita
Crappies were caught around brush piles and the road beds this week. Bluegills have moved into a summer pattern. Bluegill - Fair: Drift or troll small jigs tipped with berkly or nightcrawlers in 6 to 8 feet of water. Black Crappie - Fair: Find crappie around tree piles and along the two road beds in the lake. Largemouth Bass - Good: Anita has a good bass population. Find fish along vegetation edges and around tree piles. 

Lake Manawa
Walleyes are being picked up around the dredge cuts and the west shore. Channel catfish are being caught on the west shore. Be aware of signs marking the dredge pipe in the lake. Channel Catfish - Good: Channel catfish are spawning around rocky shorelines. White Crappie - Fair: A few large white crappies are being caught on the west shore. Walleye - Fair: A few anglers are having good success trolling crankbaits using planner boards. Don't overlook running a crawler through the dredge cuts. 

Littlefield Lake
Littlefield has a good ring of aquatic vegetation. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills have moved around the cedar tree piles in the lake. Largemouth Bass - Good: There is a large number of 12 to 14 inch fish in the lake. Channel Catfish - Good: Cast cut or stinkbait along the dam to catch spawning channel catfish.

Prairie Rose Lake
Anglers report catching channel catfish around the reefs. Water temperature is 80 degrees. Bluegill - Slow: Bluegills have moved off the spawning beds and can be caught around tree piles or drifting open water areas of the lake. Channel Catfish - Good: Channel catfish are being caught around the jetties and underwater reefs. Fish average 2 to 4 pounds. Largemouth Bass - Good: A large population of 12 to 14 inch bass offer fun catch and release fishing. 

Viking Lake
Viking Lake is six feet low. Black Crappie - Fair: Black crappies are being caught in brush piles. Cast a minnow under a bobber to catch 9 to 12 inch crappie. Largemouth Bass - Good: Anglers are catching bass in tree piles using plastics.

For more information on lakes in the Southwest District call the Cold Springs office at 712-769-2587.

Green Valley Lake
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles to catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches. Black Crappie - Slow: Catch crappie up to 9 inches with jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles. Bluegill - Fair: Catch bluegill up to 7.5 inches with jigs tipped with live bait fished near the fishing jetties or cedar tree brush piles. 

Lake Icaria
Bluegill - Fair: Catch bluegill of all sizes with nightcrawlers fished under a bobber along the fish mounds. Channel Catfish - Good: Use nightcrawlers fished along rocky shoreline areas to catch channel catfish of all sizes.

Little River Watershed Lake
Bluegill - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles to catch bluegill up to 8.5 inches. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches with jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles or along weed lines. 

Three Mile Lake
Walleye - Fair: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished along the creek channels to catch walleyes up to 22 inches. Black Crappie - Slow: Catch crappies up to 10 inches with jigs tipped with a minnow fished along the flooded timber. Bluegill - Fair: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles to catch bluegill of all sizes.

Twelve Mile Creek Lake
Black Crappie - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished along cedar tree brush piles or creek channels to catch crappie up to 11 inches. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches with jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles. Yellow Perch - Fair: Use jigs tipped with nightcrawlers fished on the main lake flats to catch yellow perch up to 11 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Catch bluegill of all sizes with jigs tipped with live bait fished along the weed line or cedar tree brush piles.

Water temperature in most Mount Ayr district lakes is in the upper 70's to low 80's. For more information, contact the Mount Ayr Fisheries office at 641-464-3108.

[Rick]

NORTHWEST IOWA FISHING REPORTS

Arrowhead Lake
Bluegill - Fair: Cast a small jig fished under a bobber near submerged structure along shore in 5-10 feet of water. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Cast traditional bass lures near submerged woody structure throughout the lake and along weed lines in the southern part of the lake. 

Black Hawk Lake
Surface water temperatures are around 80 degrees. Yellow Perch - Slow. Largemouth Bass – Fair: Cast traditional bass lures and plastics along shore. You can catch fish anywhere around the lake, but some of the best areas are Ice House point shoreline, inlet bay and bridge area near the outlet, and along Gunshot Hill. Walleye - Slow. Channel Catfish - Fair:Try cut bait, dip baits or crankbaits fished near shore. Bluegill – Fair.

Brushy Creek Lake
Surface water temperatures are in the upper 70's. There is around 10 feet of water clarity. Black Crappie - Fair: Use a small piece of crawler or minnow on a jig either drifting or fished under a bobber near submerged woody structure. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Throw traditional bass lures, plastics or weedless lures near submerged structure and along weed lines. Yellow Perch - Slow. Walleye – Slow. Bluegill - Fair.  Channel Catfish - Fair: Brushy Creek Lake has a low-density population of larger channel catfish. Target these larger fish near shore with rocky structure using a variety of cut baits and crankbaits.

North Twin Lake
Water temperature is in the low 80's. Water clarity is around 2 feet. Yellow Bass - Fair: Use a small jig tipped with a piece of crawler or waxworm fished under a small bobber in 3-6 feet of water near shore. If fishing from boat, you may need to move around to stay on top of fish. Yellow bass are 6-10 inches long. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are numerous in North Twin Lake. Use cut baits and crankbaits near shore with rocky structure. Bluegill - Slow: Try small jigs tipped with a crawler fished under a bobber along shore near vegetation edges. 

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Storm Lake has a daily limit of 3 walleye, and all 17- to 22-inch walleye must be released; no more than one walleye longer than 22 inches may be taken per day. Walleye - Fair: Drift with leeches or crawlers along the dredge cuts and troll crankbaits in the main lake. White Bass - Fair: Pick up white bass from shore and in the main like while trolling. Use twisters, crawlers or crankbaits in the marina, near the inlet and north and east shores in the main lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try a variety of dip baits, cut baits and crankbaits fished near shore and anywhere with rocky structure.

Water temperatures are in the lower 80's in the Black Hawk District. For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Beeds Lake
Bluegill – Good: Use a small piece of crawler under a bobber near the shore. Black Crappie – Slow. Yellow Bass – Fair.

Clear Lake
The water temperature is in the low 80's. Walleye - Good: Anglers are catching walleyes drift fishing a jig and crawler near vegetation. Try slip bobber fishing or jigging a leech on the rock reefs. Yellow Bass – Slow: The best bite is at first light. Channel Catfish - Good: Float a crawler under a bobber along a rocky shoreline. Boat anglers should try bouncing a jig and crawler on the rock reefs.

Crystal Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Drift fish a minnow or small jig near the dredge cut. Largemouth Bass - Good. Bluegill - Fair: Try a small piece of crawler under a bobber near the shore.

Lake Cornelia
Bluegill - Fair: Channel Catfish - Fair: Try a frog fished along the rocky shoreline.

Lower Pine Lake
Popular fishing spots get crowded in the afternoon; arrive early to avoid crowds.  Don’t park along the west side of the highway.  If the boat trailer parking lot is full, try Upper Pine Lake. Bluegill - Good: Shore anglers are catching good numbers of 4 to 7-inch fish. Black Crappie – Fair. Largemouth Bass – Good. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try a crawler or live bait near the spillway.

Silver Lake (Worth)
Bluegill - Fair: Try a small piece of worm fished below a bobber in the open areas of the vegetation. Largemouth Bass – Fair.

Upper Pine Lake
Bluegill - Good: Shore anglers are catching good numbers of 4 to 7-inch fish. Largemouth Bass – Good. Black Crappie - Fair.

For information on the lakes and rivers in north central Iowa, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

East Okoboji Lake
The walleye season is open. The water temperature is 80 degrees. There is a great panfish bite that is moving further out into deeper water post-spawn. Bluegill – Excellent: Large schools are moving into the shallows to bed and can easily be caught around hoists and docks. Black Crappie – Fair. Yellow Perch – Good: A good open water bite has started to pick up.

Lake Pahoja
Bluegill - Good: Use small jigs tipped with waxworms. Black Crappie - Good: Try small jigs tipped with waxworms. Largemouth Bass - Good: Use rubber worms or other slow-moving jigs.

Lost Island Lake
Yellow Perch – Fair. Walleye – Fair.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
Walleye – Good.

Spirit Lake
The walleye season is open. A great walleye and yellow perch bite has been seen lately with many yellows over 10 inches being caught. The water temperature is 79 degrees. Bluegill - Good: Schools are starting to move deeper off shore post-spawn. Walleye - Good: A fairly good bite lately can also be seen from shore. Try bottom bouncers or crankbaits to cover more water. Black Bullhead - Fair: Anglers have been successful at the north grade. Yellow Perch - Good: The bite has really picked up; fish are a little deeper than what can be easily fished from shore. Try small humps in the main basin or weed edges. 

West Okoboji Lake
The walleye season is open. The water temperature is 80 degrees. The panfish bite has been great. Bluegill - Good: Schools are starting to move deeper off shore. Try fishing in about 16 feet of water in the weeds or weed lines. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Find smallmouth bass on rock piles or on the points.. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Find largemouth bass on the weed lines. Yellow Perch - Fair: Schools have started to move deeper off shore.

Iowa Great Lake water temperatures have warmed up up substantially and are currently 79 degrees or warmer. This week’s extended forecast calls for temperatures ranging from the upper 70's to upper 80's. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST IOWA FISHING REPORTS

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Repairs to the Nashua dam continue as water levels and flows drop. Water levels are falling. Clarity is improving. Use caution; underwater hazards may have moved. Go to the USGS Current Conditions website for more information on water levels. Channel Catfish - Good: Use chicken liver and stinkbaits or dead chub fished on the bottom out of current. Walleye - Fair: Use a jig tipped with a bright plastic tail for quick action. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Anglers are finding quite a few small ones. Use a jig tipped with natural colored twister tails and crank or spinnerbaits for bass.

Decorah District Streams
Wild parsnip is coming on strong. Avoid touching this plant; it causes painful blisters. All trout stream stockings are unannounced due to COVID-19 precautions. Due to marginal water temperatures in July and August on a few streams, stocking catchable size trout is temporarily discontinued. Hatchery grounds are open to the public, but feeders and other conveniences are temporarily closed. Brook Trout - Good: When fishing private property open to angling, leave that property as was or better by picking up trash. Close gates if you opened them; be considerate. Brown Trout - Good: More terrestrials are out. Use beetles or other bright flies fished along grassed edges. Afternoon hatches of caddis and may flies have been slow. Pheasant tailed nymphs and bead headed midges work well. Use hair jigs or spinners for aggressive fish. Rainbow Trout - Excellent:Try a worm or cheese floated through a pool under a bobber. Use an ultra-light pole and reel for fun action. Try small crappie or bluegill jigs.

Lake Hendricks
Aquatic vegetation is coming on strong. Early morning and evening bite are best. Black Crappie - Slow: Find crappie suspended in deeper water around structure. Use a minnow or small lure drifting over structure. Bluegill - Fair: Try a small piece of worm on a hook under a small bobber. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use topwater lures or weedless hooks fished along the weed edges.Channel Catfish - Good: With warmer water temperatures, try cheese or stinkbaits. Nightcrawlers will work.

Lake Meyer
Water clarity is excellent. Filamentous algae mats are covering shallow water. Fish early morning and evening when shadows aren't cast on the water. Black Crappie - Slow: Use a small spinnerbait tossed along a steep depth change. Bluegill - Fair: Try a small piece of worm fished under a bobber. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use a jig tipped with a twister tail or worm fished along the shore. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use a nightcrawler fished on the bottom near stumps or other structure. Also try chicken liver or cheese baits.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Water levels are falling with improved clarity. Go to the USGS Current Conditions website for more information on water levels. Walleye - Fair: Find walleye in deeper holes around brush piles. Toss a jig tipped with a twister tail near a brush pile. 

Upper Iowa River (above Decorah)
Water levels are falling with improved clarity. Current remains strong. Water hazards may have moved. Walleye - Fair: Flip a jig with twister tail along a brush pile or rock ledge. White Sucker - Slow: Try a hook tipped with a nightcrawler fished on the bottom. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Toss a small crankbait along a current break or rock ledge.

Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)
Water levels are falling with improved clarity. Strong current; water hazards and stream conditions change fast. Walleye - Fair: Find walleye along current breaks or around log jams. White Sucker - Slow: Try a hook tipped with a nightcrawler fished on the bottom. 

Volga Lake
Best bite is early morning or just before dark. Water clarity is 6-8 inches due to an algae bloom. Bluegill - Slow: Use a small hook tipped with waxworm or small piece of nightcrawler fished around brush piles and rocky shores. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Use a jig tipped with a ringworm or twister tail. Channel Catfish - Good: Try a nightcrawler, cheese bait or chicken livers fished on the bottom. Best catfishing lake around. Black Crappie - Slow: Use a minnow under a bobber along a rocky shoreline or around brush piles.

Area rivers and streams water levels continue to fall, but flows remain high. Water clarity is much improved. Expect a hot, humid weekend with temperatures in the upper 80's for highs and upper 60's for lows. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

Casey Lake (aka Hickory Hills Lake)
Anglers are catching largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and channel catfish. Some sorting may be needed on bluegill; crappie and catfish angling is best early morning or late evening. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast crankbaits, spinnerbaits, topwater and plastics. Black Crappie - Good: Cast and retrieve colored tube jigs. Bluegill - Good: Try a small piece of worm under a bobber with a small split shot sinker and small hook. Channel Catfish - Good: Cast dead cut baits, chicken livers or stinkbait on the bottom of the lake; early morning or later evening bite is best.

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
Best success is channel catfish on the Cedar River. Channel Catfish - Fair: Cast dead cut baits, chicken livers or stinkbait on the bottom of the lake; early morning or later evening bite is best.

George Wyth Lake
Good reports of largemouth bass being caught on George Wyth Lake. Newly placed habitat in and around the floating pier may provide success. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast crankbaits, spinnerbaits, topwater and plastics.

Maquoketa River (above Monticello)
Anglers are catching walleye and smallmouth bass on the Maquoketa River. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Cast spinnerbaits or crankbaits. Walleye - Fair: Cast crankbaits or fishing a half of a crawler on a jig and plastic rig.

Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)
We received no information about fishing on this waterbody this week.

Wapsipinicon River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)
We received no information about fishing on this waterbody this week.

Interior rivers continue to drop and are providing some catches of smallmouth bass and walleye. Lakes in and around Cedar Falls/Waterloo area are providing some catches of largemouth bass. Trout streams remain in excellent condition, but potential heavy thunderstorms are predicted for this evening. All three trout hatcheries remain closed. Call the Manchester Hatchery at 563-927-3276 for more information.

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER FISHING REPORTS

Mississippi River Pool 9
River level is 9.5 feet at Lansing with a fall predicted this week. Water temperature is 83 degrees. New Albin Army road is reopened. Hwy 82, Lansing Bridge is closed. Use caution at ramps during low water. Lansing Village Creek is shallow near the creek mouth. Heytman's Landing is accessible with shallow drive boats only. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are biting on crankbaits on wing dams and channel border structure. Northern Pike - Good: Try in areas of colder streams and springs entering the Mississippi River. Yellow Perch - Fair: Use a small piece of crawler fished just off the bottom near shorelines with slight current. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies are in about 10 feet of water. Use a minnow under a bobber in areas with less current in backwaters or side channels. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass will be on pre-spawn bite as temperatures rise. Cast plastics or blade baits in backwater lakes. Smallmouth Bass - Excellent: Try spinnerbaits fished in rock piles at the tip of the islands on main channel borders. Shovelnose sturgeon - Fair: Some shovelnose are being picked up with a crawler fished off the bottom in main channel areas. Flathead Catfish - Fair: Flathead bite has slowed, but some are being caught on shiners or a small bluegill for bait. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Try nightcrawlers or cut bait fished off the bottom in deeper side channel areas. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are spawning. Use light tackle tipped with small piece of worm along the shorelines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Use a crawler fished on the bottom along current breaks.

Mississippi River Pool 10
River level is 618.2 feet at Lynxville and is expected to fall this week. Water temperature is 84 degrees. Sny Magill access is open. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are biting on crankbaits on wing dams and channel border structure. Northern Pike - Excellent: Try in areas of colder streams and springs entering the Mississippi River. Yellow Perch - Excellent: Use a small piece of crawler fished just off the bottom near shorelines with slight current. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies are in 8-10 feet of water. Use a minnow under a bobber in areas near current breaks in backwaters and side channels. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass will be on pre-spawn bite as temperatures rise. Cast plastics or blade baits in backwater lakes. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try spinnerbaits fished in rock piles at the tip of the islands on main channel borders. Shovelnose sturgeon - Good: Some shovelnose are being picked up using a crawler fished off the bottom in main channel areas. Flathead Catfish - Fair: Flathead bite has slowed, but some are still being caught on shiners or a small bluegill for bait. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Try nightcrawlers or cut bait fished off the bottom in deeper side channel areas.  Bluegill - Excellent: Bluegills are spawning. Use light tackle tipped with small piece of worm along the shorelines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Try a crawler fished on the bottom along current breaks.

Mississippi River Pool 11
River level is 9.7 feet at Guttenberg and is predicted to fall to 8 feet this week. Water temperature is in the mid 80's. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are biting on crankbaits on wing dams and channel border structure. Northern Pike - Excellent: Try in areas of colder streams and springs entering the Mississippi River. Yellow Perch - Fair: Use a small piece of crawler fished just off the bottom near shorelines with slight current. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies are in about 10 feet of water. Use a minnow under a bobber in areas with less current in backwaters and side channels. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass will be on pre-spawn bite as temperatures rise. Cast plastics or blade baits in backwater lakes. Smallmouth Bass - Excellent: Try spinnerbaits fished in rock piles at the tip of the islands on main channel borders. Shovelnose sturgeon - Fair: Some shovelnose are being picked up with a crawler fished off the bottom in main channel areas. Flathead Catfish - Fair: Flathead bite has slowed, but some are still being caught on shiners or a small bluegill for bait. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Try nightcrawlers or cut bait fished off the bottom in deeper side channel areas. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are spawning. Use light tackle tipped with small piece of worm along the shorelines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Try a crawler fished on the bottom along current breaks.

Upper Mississippi River levels are predicted to fall this week. Water clarity is good. Walleye slot length limits now apply on the entire Mississippi River. All walleyes less than 15 inches long and between 20-27 inches long must be released immediately. Only one walleye greater than 27 inches can be kept. Combined walleye/sauger daily harvest limit of 6 and possession of 12.

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
Water levels are stable, but will start to recede slightly later this week. The water level is near 9.3 feet at the Dubuque Lock and Dam and 11.5 feet at the RR bridge.The water temperature is around 86 degrees. The water clarity is good. Northern Pike - Excellent: Flashy spinners in warm sun filled waters might trigger these predators. Bluegill - Good: Most of the spawning is over, but some bluegills are still being reported in shallow backwater areas. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Lots of anglers are switching to prepared stinkbaits. Some catfish have started to move along the rock lines to prepare for spawning. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on an egg sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Lots of bass are being taken off lily pad areas on spinnerbaits or frog imitation lures. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Some smallies have moved in along the rock piles; use flashy spoons or crankbaits.

Mississippi River Pool 13
Water level is 10.4 feet at the Bellevue Lock and Dam and is expected to recede later this week. The water temperature is 86 degrees. The water is clear. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Some cats have moved along rock lines. Anglers are switching to prepared stinkbaits. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Northern Pike - Excellent: Try flashy spinners fished along old weed edges and rock shorelines. Largemouth Bass - Excellent: Lots of bass are being taken off lily pad areas on spinnerbaits or frog imitation lures. Bluegill - Good: Try fishing around brush piles in larger sloughs with moderate current. Flathead Catfish - Good: Use live fish for bait. Lots of trot lines are being set. 

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is 9.7 feet at the Fulton Lock and Dam, 12.5 feet at Camanche and 7.2 feet at LeClaire. Water temperature is 87 degrees. Water clarity is fair. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Anglers are switching to prepared stinkbaits. Look for channel cats to move along the rock lines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a worm sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Largemouth Bass - Good: : Lots of bass are being taken off lily pad areas on spinnerbaits or frog imitation lures. Northern Pike - Good: Use flashy spinners along backwater shorelines or in the tailwaters for this aggressive fish. Flathead Catfish - Good: Try large live bait to catch big flathead catfish. Bluegill - Good: Find bluegills near the mouths of large backwater areas, usually around brush piles.

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water level is around 10.1 feet at Rock Island and is stable. Expect water levels to recede slightly later in the week. The water temperature is 87 degrees; water clarity is good. Freshwater Drum - Good: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a worm sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Channel cats are readily biting on cut bait and prepared baits. Flathead Catfish - Good: Try live bait around brush piles or in the tailwater area. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Fish the rocky habitats along the channel edge.

Water level is expected to slowly recede later in the week.Water temperature has warmed into the upper 80's throughout the district. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-880-8781.

 

SOUTHEAST IOWA FISHING REPORTS

Big Hollow Lake
Hot weather is keeping angler numbers down. Water temperature in the 80's. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Going to go deep; work some of the edges of the brush piles in 5 to 7 feet of water earlier in the morning. Bluegill - Fair: Most bluegills have moved off the beds and are out in 6 to 8 feet of water.

Iowa River (Columbus Junction to Mississippi River
Finally below bank full level. Forecast to drop only another foot or so over the next week.

Lake Belva Deer
Water temperature is in the mid to upper 80's. Early morning bite is best; most anglers are gone by 9 am.  Largemouth Bass - Fair: Summer patterns have set up. Try early in the shallows; most of the day they are out in deeper water. Bluegill - Fair: Move out to the deeper water (16 to 18 feet) out around the trees. Black Crappie - Fair: Try slow trolling at the lower end of the lake early in the morning. 

Lake Darling
The water has tried to clear up; it is now starting to turn green. Water temperature is in the mid to upper 80's. Monday afternoon at 3 pm it hit 94 degrees at the surface.   Largemouth Bass - Slow: The hot weather pushed them out into deeper water. Early morning before it heats up is best. Bluegill - Fair: Start out in the 5 to 7 feet of water over the rock piles; don’t be surprised if you end up in 10 to 12 feet of water. Black Crappie - Slow: Anglers are picking up a few crappies slowly drift trolling in 10 to 12 feet of water; bite will improve as the water clears.

Lost Grove Lake
Water temperatures are in the mid-80's. Water clarity is still good with a little green color; weed beds are dying back. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Still catching a few bass in shallow early in the morning. The evening bite has slowed since the water hasn't started cooling off by then. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegill have moved to deeper water for the summer to get away from the heat. Start looking in 10 to 15 feet of water in the trees; don’t be surprised if you end up out in 15 to 20 feet of water.  

Skunk River (Rose Hill to Coppock)
The water level stabilized at just under half bank full. Channel Catfish - Fair: The hot weather has kept a lot of anglers off the river this week. The grass frogs are really starting to come out  with the heavy dew in the mornings; good time to try a few for fish bait.

For more information on the above lakes, call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

 

Lake Miami
Bluegill - Fair: Try small jigs around the fishing jetties. Drift fishing from a boat can also produce some bluegills this time of year.

Lake Wapello
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try topwater lures early and late in the day. Target cedar tree piles.

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 904.52 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another waterbody. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) – Fair: Try vertically jigging around rock piles and submerged points.

Red Haw Lake
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try topwater lures early and late in the day. Use spinnerbaits and crankbaits during the hotter parts of the day. Bluegill - Slow: Try drifting in the main part of the lake with nightcrawlers.

The district includes Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST IOWA FISHING REPORTS

Big Creek Lake
Walleye - Slow: Troll live bait rigs or crankbaits at depths of 15 feet or less in the upper half of the lake. Black Crappie - Fair: Drift or troll jigs with twister or paddle tails down 3 to 6 feet in the upper half of the lake. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Cast or troll shad imitating spoons, crankbaits or plastics. Look for schools of young shad breaking the surface of the water to find feeding wipers.

Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock)
Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish and flathead catfish are being caught. Try live bait, stinkbait and crawlers.

Des Moines River (Stratford to Saylorville Lake)
Channel Catfish - Good: Try stinkbaits or cut bait fished in or just upstream of tree falls.

Don Williams Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Drift or troll panfish jigs out a little deeper on the edges of the treefalls and over sunken pallets. Most crappies are 8.5 to 10 inches. Bluegill - Good: Catch spawning bluegills shallow fishing small jigs tipped with nightcrawlers under a bobber.

For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

Lake Anita
Crappies were caught around brush piles and the road beds this week. Bluegills have moved into a summer pattern. Bluegill - Fair: Drift or troll small jigs tipped with berkly or nightcrawlers in 6 to 8 feet of water. Black Crappie - Slow: Find crappie around tree piles and along the two road beds in the lake. Largemouth Bass - Good: Anita has a good bass population. Find fish along vegetation edges and around tree piles. 

Lake Manawa
Walleyes are being picked up around the dredge cuts and the west shore. Channel catfish are being caught on the west shore. Be aware of signs marking the dredge pipe in the lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are close to shore. Fish are all sizes in the lake. White Crappie - Fair: A few large white crappies are being caught on the west shore. Walleye - Fair: A few anglers are having good success trolling crankbaits using planner boards. Don't overlook running a crawler through the dredge cuts. 

Littlefield Lake
Littlefield has a good ring of aquatic vegetation. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills have moved around the cedar tree piles in the lake. Largemouth Bass - Good: There is a large number of 12 to 14 inch fish in the lake. Channel Catfish - Good: Cast cut or stinkbait along the dam to catch 2-4 pound channel catfish.

Prairie Rose Lake
Anglers report catching channel catfish around the reefs. Water temperature is 80 degrees. Bluegill - Slow: Bluegills have moved off the spawning beds and can be caught around tree piles or drifting open water areas of the lake. Channel Catfish - Good: Channel catfish are being caught around the jetties and underwater reefs. Fish average 2 to 4 pounds. Largemouth Bass - Good: A large population of 12 to 14 inch bass offer fun catch and release fishing. 

Viking Lake
Viking Lake is six feet low. Black Crappie - Fair: Black crappies are being caught in brush piles. Cast a minnow under a bobber to catch 9 to 12 inch crappie. Largemouth Bass - Good: Anglers are catching bass in tree piles using plastics.

For more information on lakes in the Southwest District call the Cold Springs office at 712-769-2587.

Green Valley Lake
Largemouth Bass - Slow: Use jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles to catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches. Black Crappie - Slow: Catch crappie up to 9 inches with jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles. Bluegill - Slow: Catch bluegill up to 7.5 inches with jigs tipped with live bait fished near the fishing jetties or cedar tree brush piles. 

Lake Icaria
Bluegill - Slow: Catch bluegill of all sizes with nightcrawlers fished under a bobber along the fish mounds. Channel Catfish - Good: Use nightcrawlers fished along rocky shoreline areas to catch channel catfish of all sizes.

Little River Watershed Lake
Bluegill - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles to catch bluegill up to 8.5 inches. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches with jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles or along weed lines. 

Three Mile Lake
Walleye - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished along the creek channels to catch walleyes up to 22 inches. Black Crappie - Slow: Catch crappies up to 10 inches with jigs tipped with a minnow fished along the flooded timber. Bluegill - Fair: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles to catch bluegill of all sizes.

Twelve Mile Creek Lake
Black Crappie - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished along cedar tree brush piles or creek channels to catch crappie up to 11 inches. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches with jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles. Bluegill - Slow: Catch bluegill of all sizes with jigs tipped with live bait fished along the weed line or cedar tree brush piles.

Water temperature in most Mount Ayr district lakes is in the low to mid-80's. For more information, contact the Mount Ayr Fisheries office at 641-464-3108.

[Rick]

IOWA FISHING REPORTS

NORTHWEST

Arrowhead Lake
Water clarity is good. Bluegill - Fair: Cast a small jig fished under a bobber near submerged structure along shore in 5-10 feet of water. Try small popping plugs on a fly rod on calm evenings. Cast plugs around downed trees along the shoreline. Try drifting down the middle of the lake with a 1/16 ounce leadhead in search of suspended fish. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Cast traditional bass lures near submerged woody structure throughout the lake and along weed lines in the southern part of the lake. 

Black Hawk Lake
Surface water temperatures are around 80 degrees.Water level is near crest. Water clarity is 12 to 16 inches. Yellow Perch - Slow. Largemouth Bass – Fair: Cast traditional bass lures and plastics along shore and near docks. You can catch fish anywhere around the lake, but some of the best areas are Ice House point shoreline, inlet bay and bridge area near the outlet, and along Gunshot Hill. Walleye - Slow. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use natural baits like nightcrawlers, crawdads, or shrimp fished around deeper rock piles. Try drifting at night to cover a lot of water. Bluegill – Fair.

Browns Lake
Browns Lake is 4 to 6 inches low. Channel Catfish - Fair: Look for channel catfish along the outside bend of the lake in deeper water. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Look for largemouth bass along the edges of the lotus patches and the deadfalls along the outside bend of the lake.

Brushy Creek Lake
Brushy Creek is currently being drawn-down four feet for a construction project. Launch boats at the north ramp or the west ramp;  docks have been adjusted at the west ramp to make them easier to use. Black Crappie - Fair: Use a small piece of crawler or minnow on a jig either drifting or fished under a bobber near submerged woody structure. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Throw traditional bass lures, plastics or weedless lures near submerged structure and along weed lines. Yellow Perch - Slow. Walleye – Slow. Bluegill - Fair.  Channel Catfish - Fair: Brushy Creek Lake has a low-density population of larger channel catfish. Target these larger fish near shore with rocky structure using a variety of cut baits and crankbaits.

North Twin Lake
Water temperature is in the low 80's. Water clarity is around 1-2 feet. Yellow Bass - Fair: Use a small jig tipped with a piece of crawler or waxworm fished under a small bobber in 3-6 feet of water near shore. If fishing from boat, you may need to move around to stay on top of fish. Yellow bass are 6-10 inches long. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are numerous in North Twin Lake. Use natural baits like nightcrawlers, crawdads, or shrimp fished near shore. If fishing from a boat, try drifting at night over deeper water. Bluegill - Slow: Try small jigs tipped with a crawler fished under a bobber along shore near vegetation edges. Walleye - Slow: Try trolling walleye in the middle of the basin using crankbaits or crawler harnesses.

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Water clarity is 2 to 6 feet, depending on location in the lake. Storm Lake has a daily limit of 3 walleye, and all 17- to 22-inch walleye must be released; no more than one walleye longer than 22 inches may be taken per day. Walleye - Fair: Drift with leeches or crawlers along the dredge cuts and troll crankbaits in the main lake. White Bass - Fair: Pick up white bass from shore and in the main like while trolling. Use twisters, crawlers or crankbaits in the marina, near the inlet and north and east shores in the main lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try a variety of dip baits, cut baits and crankbaits fished near shore and anywhere with rocky structure. Bluegill - Slow: Find panfish around patches of vegetation. Yellow Perch - Slow: Look for panfish around patches of vegetation. Black Crappie - Slow: Find for panfish around patches of vegetation.

Water temperatures are in the lower 80's in the Black Hawk District. For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Beeds Lake
Bluegill – Fair: Use a small piece of crawler under a bobber near the shore. Black Crappie – Good: Drift fish a minnow or small tube jig. Yellow Bass – Fair.

Clear Lake
The water temperature is in the low 80's. Walleye - Slow: Anglers are catching walleyes drift fishing a jig and crawler near vegetation. Try slip bobber fishing or jigging a leech on the rock reefs. Yellow Bass – Slow: Try drift fishing a small jig. Channel Catfish - Fair: Float a crawler under a bobber along a rocky shoreline. Boat anglers should try bouncing a jig and crawler on the rock reefs.

Crystal Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Drift fish a minnow or small jig near the dredge cut. Largemouth Bass - Good.

For information on the lakes and rivers in north central Iowa, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

East Okoboji Lake
The walleye season is open. The water temperature is 78 degrees. Bluegill – Good: Find schools in deeper water. Black Crappie – Fair. Yellow Perch – Good. Yellow Bass – Good.

Lake Pahoja
Bluegill - Good: Use small jigs tipped with waxworms. Black Crappie - Good: Try small jigs tipped with waxworms. Largemouth Bass - Good: Use rubber worms or other slow-moving jigs.

Lost Island Lake
Yellow Perch – Fair. Walleye – Fair.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
Walleye – Good.

Spirit Lake
The walleye season is open. A great walleye bite was seen in June, but has slowed due to warm water conditions. A great yellow perch bite has been seen lately with many yellows over 10 inches caught. The water temperature is 77 degrees. Bluegill - Good: Schools are starting to move deeper off shore post-spawn. Walleye - Good: A fairly good bite lately can also be seen from shore. Try bottom bouncers or crankbaits to cover more water. Black Bullhead - Fair: Anglers have been successful at the north grade. Yellow Perch - Good: The bite has really picked up; fish are a little deeper than what can be easily fished from shore. Try small humps in the main basin or weed edges. 

West Okoboji Lake
The walleye season is open. The water temperature is 78 degrees. The panfish bite has been great. Bluegill - Excellent: Schools are deeper off shore. Try fishing in about 16 feet of water in the weeds or weed lines. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Find smallmouth bass on rock piles or on the points.. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Find largemouth bass on the weed lines. Yellow Perch - Fair: Schools have started to move deeper off shore. Yellow Bass - Excellent: Easily find yellow bass while fishing for bluegill.

Iowa Great Lake water temperatures have warmed up up substantially and are currently 77 degrees or warmer. This week’s extended forecast calls for temperatures ranging from the lower 80's to lower 90's. The area walleye bite has slowed considerably due to very warm water conditions. The panfish bite has been excellent, especially on West Okoboji. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Repairs to the Nashua dam continue as water levels and flows drop. Water levels are falling with good water clarity. Use caution; underwater hazards may have moved. Go to the USGS Current Conditions website for more information on water levels. Channel Catfish - Good: Use chicken liver and stinkbaits or dead chub fished on the bottom out of current. Walleye - Good: Try a jig tipped with a bright plastic tail for quick action. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Use a jig tipped with natural colored twister tails and crank or spinnerbaits.

Decorah District Streams
Wild parsnip is seeding out. Avoid touching this plant; it's sap causes painful blisters. All trout stream stockings are unannounced due to COVID-19 precautions. A small number of trout streams are not stocked in July and August due to marginal water temperatures; this is an annual occurrence. To check which ones, please visit our trout fishing website. Rainbow Trout - Excellent:Try a worm or cheese bait floated through a pool under a bobber. Use an ultra-light pole and reel for fun action. Try small crappie or bluegill jigs. Brown Trout - Good: Hoppers, beetles and bugs are plentiful. Use flies imitating terrestrial insects fished along grassed edges. Use hair jigs or spinners for aggressive fish. Brook Trout - Good: Please respect private property open to angling; pick up trash and be considerate. Bead-headed midges and pheasant tail nymphs work well.

Lake Hendricks
Lake Hendricks  is experiencing a severe green algal bloom. Early morning and evening bite are best. Bluegill - Slow: Try a small piece of worm on a hook under a bobber. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Use topwater lures or weedless hooks fished along the weed edges.Channel Catfish - Good: With warmer water temperatures, try cheese or stinkbaits. A fat juicy worm will also work.

Lake Meyer
Water clarity is excellent. Filamentous algae mats are covering vegetation in shallow water. Fish early morning and evening when shadows aren't cast on the water. Bluegill - Fair: Try a small piece of worm fished under a bobber along a rocky shore. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use a jig tipped with a twister tail or worm fished along vegetated edges. Channel Catfish - Good: Try chicken liver or nightcrawlers fished on the bottom :near stumps or other structure.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Water levels are falling with improved clarity. Go to the USGS Current Conditions website for more information on water levels. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try a jig tipped with a ringworm or twister tail fished along a current break or rock ledge. Walleye - Good: Find walleye in deeper holes around brush piles. Toss a jig tipped with a twister tail near a brush pile. 

Upper Iowa River (above Decorah)
Water levels are falling with improved clarity. Current remains strong. Water hazards may have moved. Walleye - Good: Flip a jig with twister tail along a brush pile or rock ledge. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Toss a small crankbait along a current break or rock ledge.

Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)
Water levels are falling with improved clarity. Strong current; water hazards and stream conditions change fast. Walleye - Good: Find walleye along current breaks or around log jams. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Use a jig tipped with brightly colored plastics or a crankbait imitating crawdads. Channel Catfish - Good: Bank anglers using nightcrawlers fished on the bottom are catching catfish.

Volga Lake
Best bite is early morning or just before dark. A green algae bloom is causing poor water clarity. Bluegill - Fair: Use a small hook tipped with waxworm or small piece of nightcrawler fished around brush piles and rocky shores. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use a jig tipped with a ringworm or twister tail. Channel Catfish - Good: Try a nightcrawler, cheese bait or chicken livers fished on the bottom. Best catfishing lake around. 

Area rivers and streams water levels continue to fall. Flows remain high. Water clarity is excellent. Expect a hot, humid weekend with temperatures in the 90's for highs and 70's for lows. Pop-up thunderstorms are possible. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

Casey Lake (aka Hickory Hills Lake)
Anglers are catching largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and channel catfish. Some sorting may be needed on bluegill; crappie and catfish angling is best early morning or late evening. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast crankbaits, spinnerbaits, topwater and plastics. Black Crappie - Good: Cast and retrieve colored tube jigs. Bluegill - Good: Try a small piece of worm under a bobber with a small split shot sinker and small hook. Channel Catfish - Good: Cast dead cut baits, chicken livers or stinkbait on the bottom of the lake; early morning or later evening bite is best.

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
Channel Catfish - Good: Cast dead cut baits, chicken livers or stinkbait on the bottom of the river; early morning or later evening bite is best.

George Wyth Lake
Good reports of largemouth bass being caught. Newly placed habitat in and around the floating pier may provide success. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast crankbaits, spinnerbaits, topwater and plastics. Bluegill - Fair: Use a small piece of worm under a bobber with a small split shot sinker and small hook.

Maquoketa River (above Monticello)
Anglers are catching walleye and smallmouth bass on the Maquoketa River. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Cast spinnerbaits or crankbaits. Walleye - Fair: Cast crankbaits or fish a half of a crawler on a jig and plastic rig.

Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)
We received no information about fishing on this waterbody this week.

South Prairie Lake
Channel Catfish - Good: Early morning and late evening bite is best. Try shrimp, stinkbait, or chicken livers fished on the bottom.

Wapsipinicon River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)
We received no information about fishing on this waterbody this week. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Cast spinnerbaits or crankbaits. Walleye - Fair: Cast crankbaits or fish a half of a crawler on a jig and plastic rig. Northern Pike - Good: Cast spoons, spinnerbaits, or crankbaits. 

Interior rivers continue to drop and are providing some catches of smallmouth bass, walleye, northern pike and channel catfish. Lakes in and around Cedar Falls/Waterloo area are providing some catches of largemouth bass. Trout streams remain in excellent condition. All three trout hatcheries remain closed. Call the Manchester Hatchery at 563-927-3276 for more information.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9
River level at Lansing is 8.9 feet and stabilizing near 9.1 feet this week. Water temperature is 78 degrees. Lansing Bridge has reopened. Use caution at ramps during low water. Lansing Village Creek is shallow near the creek mouth. Heytman's Landing is accessible with shallow drive boats only. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are biting on crankbaits on wing dams and channel border structure. Northern Pike - Good: Try in areas of colder streams and springs entering the Mississippi River. Yellow Perch - Fair: Use a small piece of crawler fished just off the bottom near shorelines with slight current. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies are in about 10 feet of water. Use a minnow under a bobber in areas with less current in backwaters or side channels. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast plastics or blade baits along edges of vegetation beds in backwater lakes. Smallmouth Bass - Excellent: Try spinnerbaits fished in rock piles at the tip of the islands on main channel borders. Shovelnose sturgeon - Fair: Some shovelnose are being picked up with a crawler fished off the bottom in main channel areas. Flathead Catfish - Fair: Flathead bite has slowed, but some are being caught on shiners or a small bluegill for bait. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Try nightcrawlers or cut bait fished off the bottom in deeper side channel areas. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are spawning. Use light tackle tipped with small piece of worm along the shorelines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Use a crawler fished on the bottom along current breaks.

Mississippi River Pool 10
River level at Lynxville is 617.1 feet with a slight bump then stabilizing around 617.4 feet. Water temperature is 79 degrees. Sny Magill access is open. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are biting on crankbaits on wing dams and channel border structure. Northern Pike - Excellent: Try in areas of colder streams and springs entering the Mississippi River. Yellow Perch - Excellent: Use a small piece of crawler fished just off the bottom near shorelines with slight current. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies are in 8-10 feet of water. Use a minnow under a bobber in areas near current breaks in backwaters and side channels. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast plastics or blade baits along edges of vegetation beds in backwater lakes. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try spinnerbaits fished in rock piles at the tip of the islands on main channel borders. Shovelnose sturgeon - Good: Some shovelnose are being picked up using a crawler fished off the bottom in main channel areas. Flathead Catfish - Fair: Flathead bite has slowed, but some are still being caught on shiners or a small bluegill for bait. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Try nightcrawlers or cut bait fished off the bottom in deeper side channel areas.  Bluegill - Excellent: Bluegills are spawning. Use light tackle tipped with small piece of worm along the shorelines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Try a crawler fished on the bottom along current breaks.

Mississippi River Pool 11
River level is 9.2 feet at Guttenberg and is predicted to remain stable this week. Water temperature is in the upper 70's. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are biting on crankbaits on wing dams and channel border structure. Northern Pike - Excellent: Try in areas of colder streams and springs entering the Mississippi River. Yellow Perch - Fair: Use a small piece of crawler fished just off the bottom near shorelines with slight current. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies are in about 10 feet of water. Use a minnow under a bobber in areas with less current in backwaters and side channels. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast plastics or blade baits along edges of vegetation beds in backwater lakes. Smallmouth Bass - Excellent: Try spinnerbaits fished in rock piles at the tip of the islands on main channel borders. Shovelnose sturgeon - Fair: Some shovelnose are being picked up with a crawler fished off the bottom in main channel areas. Flathead Catfish - Fair: Flathead bite has slowed, but some are still being caught on shiners or a small bluegill for bait. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Try nightcrawlers or cut bait fished off the bottom in deeper side channel areas. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are spawning. Use light tackle tipped with small piece of worm along the shorelines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Try a crawler fished on the bottom along current breaks.

Upper Mississippi River levels are fairly stable this week. Water clarity is good. Walleye slot length limits now apply on the entire Mississippi River. All walleyes less than 15 inches long and between 20-27 inches long must be released immediately. Only one walleye greater than 27 inches can be kept. Combined walleye/sauger daily harvest limit of 6 and possession of 12.

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
Water levels will recede slowly this week. The water level is near 8.8 feet at the Lock and Dam and 11 feet at the RR bridge.The water temperature is around 80 degrees. The water clarity is fair. Northern Pike - Good: Flashy spinners in eddy areas or along weed lines will take this toothy predator. Bluegill - Slow: Bluegills are still being reported in shallow backwater areas near brush piles. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Lots of anglers are using prepared stinkbaits. Try floating worms along rock lines.  Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on an egg sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Lots of bass are being taken off lily pad areas on spinnerbaits or frog imitation lures. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Some smallies have moved in along the rock piles; use flashy spoons or crankbaits. Walleye – Slow. 

Mississippi River Pool 13
Water level is 9.7 feet at the Bellevue Lock and Dam and will recede. The water temperature is 80 degrees. The water clarity is fair. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Some cats have moved along rock lines. Most anglers are using prepared stinkbaits. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Northern Pike - Good: Try flashy spinners fished along old weed edges and rock shorelines. Largemouth Bass - Excellent: Lots of bass are being taken off lily pad areas on spinnerbaits or frog imitation lures. Bluegill - Fair: Try fishing around brush piles in larger sloughs with moderate current. Flathead Catfish - Good: Use live fish for bait. Lots of trot lines are being set; make sure you follow trot lines rules, especially having a tag with your name and address attached to the lines. 

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is 8.9 feet at the Fulton Lock and Dam, 12 feet at Camanche and 6.4 feet at LeClaire. Water temperature is 80 degrees. Water clarity is fair. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Anglers are using prepared stinkbaits along rock lines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a worm sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Lots of bass are being taken off lily pad areas on spinnerbaits or frog imitation lures. Northern Pike - Good: Use flashy spinners along backwater shorelines or in the tailwaters for this aggressive fish. Flathead Catfish - Excellent: Try live fish for bait. Lots of trot lines are being set; make sure you follow trot lines rules, especially having a tag with your name and address attached to the lines.   Bluegill - Fair: Find bluegills near the mouths of large backwater areas, usually around brush piles. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try spinners or crankbaits along rip-rap areas.

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water level is around 9.3 feet at Rock Island and is receding. The water temperature is 80 degrees; water clarity is fair. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a worm sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Channel cats are readily biting on cut bait and prepared baits. Flathead Catfish - Good: Try live bait around brush piles or in the tailwater area. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Fish the rocky habitats along the channel edge. 

Water level is expected to slowly recede later in the week.Water temperature is near 80 degrees. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-880-8781.

 

Mississippi River Pool 16
River stage is 9.26 feet at Lock and Dam 15 in the Quad Cities and has been fairly steady the past few days. Channel Catfish - Good: Use chicken livers or dip baits around brush piles and snags along the main channel and side channels. White Crappie - No Report: Look for crappies in the backwaters. Try jigs and plastics or minnows fished in Sunset Marina or Andalusia Island Complex. Bluegill - No Report: Try pieces of worm under a bobber in Sunset Marina or Andalusia Island Complex. Walleye - No Report: Look for walleyes on the wingdams or Sylvan Slough. Try trolling crankbaits or three-way rigs with pieces of crawler. 

Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage is 7.92 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine and has been falling slowly the past few days. The ramp at Big Timber is open. The Kilpeck Landing is also open. Channel Catfish - No Report: Use chicken livers or dip baits around brush piles and snags in the main channel and side channels. White Bass -Good: Look for white bass by the dam or by GPC. Cast jigs and twister tails or crankbaits. Bluegill - No Report: Look for bluegills in the backwaters. Try pieces of worm under a bobber fished around brush piles in Big Timber or Cleveland Slough. Walleye - No Report: Look for walleyes on the wing dams. Try trolling crankbaits or pulling three-way rigs with crawlers.

Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage is 9.54 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston and is slowly falling. The gates are out at the dam. Water clarity is fair. The Toolsboro ramp is open. Channel Catfish - No Report: Use or chicken livers or dip baits around brush piles and snags in the main channel and side channels. White Bass - Fair: Cast crankbaits in Belle Pocket. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Some largemouth bass are being caught in Boston Bay. 

Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage is 6.28 feet at Lock and Dam 18. River stage is 11.68 feet at Burlington and is falling.  River stage is 526.54 feet at Ft. Madison. We have not received any fishing report information for this pool this week.

River stages have been falling slowly the past couple of days. Main channel water temperature is around 79 degrees. Water clarity is and fair. If you have questions on fishing Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.

SOUTHEAST

Big Hollow Lake
Water temperature is in the mid to upper 80's. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Work some of the edges of the brush piles in 5 to 7 feet of water earlier in the morning. Bluegill - Fair: Work the brush piles and trees in 6 to 8 feet of water using small jigs tipped with live bait.

Iowa River (Columbus Junction to Mississippi River
The Iowa River in this section is holding at about 4 foot below bank full level with a decent current speed. Channel Catfish - Fair: A few more anglers were out this week. The log jams and snags are holding the fish. Still more than enough water that the catfish are "holed up" at lower water levels.

Lake Belva Deer
Water is fairly clear, but with a green cast to it. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Go to the upper end of the lake and work over the top of the mounds with crankbaits or soft plastics. Bluegill - Fair: Move out to the deeper water (16 to 18 feet) out around the trees. Black Crappie - Fair: Try slow trolling at the lower end of the lake early in the morning. The bite has slowed a bit. 

Lake Darling
Water temperature is in the mid 80's. Water clarity is decent at about 3 1/2 feet with a green cast to the water. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Hot weather forecast for this weekend points to a continuation of the morning bite. Bluegill - Fair: Keep working rock and brush piles in 5 to 8 feet of water. Black Crappie - Slow: Slowly drift or troll down the lake in 10 to 12 feet of water over the habitat.

Lost Grove Lake
Water is fairly clear with a green cast to it.  Early and late bite will be best with water temperatures in the mid 80's. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Bass fishing picked up a little bit over the weekend. Still mostly an early morning bite. Bluegill - Fair: Work small jigs tipped with a trailer or live bait in 12 -16 feet of water.

Skunk River (Rose Hill to Coppock)
The Skunk River settled to a level just under half bank full. Channel Catfish - Fair: Start working to usual summer haunts of the bigger log jams and off the back edges of the sand bars (those that are starting to stick out of the water.)

For more information on the above lakes, call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

 

Coralville Reservoir
The lake level is 684.3 feet (normal summer pool is 683.5 feet). The lake level continues to fall slowly and is predicted to reach summer pool on July 28. Channel Catfish - Fair: Drift/troll cut bait in the channel.

Diamond Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Try small jigs over deeper brush or suspended over the basin. Bluegill - Fair: Use small jigs or worms around brush piles. Channel Catfish - Good: Try stinkbait or crawlers.

Lake Macbride
The 10 hp outboard maximum limit is in effect. White Bass - Fair: Look for surface activity towards evening; throw topwater baits or small plastics. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Look for surface activity towards evening; throw topwater lures or small plastics. Walleye - Slow: Troll shad colored crankbaits or worm harnesses in 7-13 feet of water. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Target shallow cover or deeper rock piles. 

Pleasant Creek Lake
Bluegill – Fair: Some fish remain around shallow brush and vegetation. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try stinkbait and crawlers.

Sand Lake
This is the quarry on the east side of Marshalltown. Channel Catfish – Fair: Use cut bait and live bait.  Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) – Fair: Look for surface activity early in the mornings. Catch fish up to 20 inches.

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

Lake Miami
Bluegill - Fair: Try small jigs around the fishing jetties. Drift fishing from a boat can also produce some bluegills this time of year. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use topwater lures early and late in the day. Try crankbaits around the cedar trees and along the rip-rapped shorelines. 

Lake Sugema
Black Crappie - Slow: Drift minnows in 6-10 feet of water for suspended crappies. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use topwater lures along the shorelines; fish deeper with crankbaits or rubber worms.

Lake Wapello
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try topwater lures early and late in the day. Target cedar tree piles. Bluegill - Slow: Drift nightcrawlers on small jigs for suspended bluegills. Target areas in 6-8 feet of water. Channel Catfish - Slow: Use nightcrawlers or stinkbait. Don’t fish too deep; lakes will stratify this time of year. 

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 904.59 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another waterbody. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) – Fair: Try vertically jigging around rock piles and submerged points. Walleye - Fair: Troll gizzard shad imitating crankbaits around rock piles submerged points and areas with depth changes. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try nightcrawlers or chicken liver in 6-8 feet of water.

Red Haw Lake
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try topwater lures early and late in the day. Use spinnerbaits and crankbaits during the hotter parts of the day. Target submerged structure and rocky shorelines. Bluegill - Slow: Try drifting in the main part of the lake with nightcrawlers.

The district includes Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST

Big Creek Lake
Walleye - Slow: Troll live bait rigs or crankbaits at depths of 15 feet or less in the upper half of the lake. Black Crappie - Fair: Drift or troll jigs with twister or paddle tails in the upper half of the lake. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Cast or troll shad imitating spoons, crankbaits or plastics. Look for schools of young shad breaking the surface of the water to find feeding wipers.

Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock)
Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish and flathead catfish are being caught. Try live bait, stinkbait and crawlers.

Des Moines River (Stratford to Saylorville Lake)
Channel Catfish - Good: Try stinkbaits or cut bait fished in or just upstream of tree falls.

Don Williams Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Drift or troll panfish jigs out a little deeper on the edges of the treefalls and over sunken pallets. Most crappies are 8.5 to 10 inches. Bluegill - Good: Catch spawning bluegills shallow fishing small jigs tipped with nightcrawlers under a bobber.

Red Rock Reservoir
White Bass - Fair: Troll or cast shad imitating spoons and shallow diving crankbaits. Look for schools of small shad busting on the surface to find feeding fish.

For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

Lake Anita
Bluegill - Slow: Bluegills have moved into a summer pattern. or troll small jigs tipped with berkly or nightcrawlers in 6 to 8 feet of water. Black Crappie - Fair: Best bite is early morning around tree piles and along the two road beds in the lake. Largemouth Bass - Good: Anita has a good bass population. Find fish along vegetation edges and around tree piles. Channel Catfish - Fair: Catfish are being caught on top of the two roadbeds in the lake.

Lake Manawa
Zebra mussels were found in Lake Manawa; clean, drain and dry your boat when leaving the lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are close to shore. Fish are all sizes in the lake. White Crappie - Fair: A few large white crappies are being caught on the west shore. Walleye - Fair: A few anglers are having good success trolling crankbaits using planner boards. Don't overlook running a crawler through the dredge cuts. 

Littlefield Lake
Littlefield has a good ring of aquatic vegetation. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills have moved around the cedar tree piles in the lake. Largemouth Bass - Good: There is a large number of 12 to 14-inch fish in the lake. Channel Catfish - Good: Cast cut or stinkbait along the dam to catch 2-4 pound channel catfish.

Prairie Rose Lake
Anglers report catching channel catfish around the reefs. Water temperature is 80 degrees. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers report good bluegill fishing in the mornings trolling or drifting small jigs. Black Crappie - Slow: There is a small population of large black crappies in the lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are being caught around the jetties and underwater reefs. Fish average 2 to 4 pounds. Largemouth Bass - Good: A large population of 12 to 14-inch bass offer fun catch and release fishing. 

Viking Lake
Viking Lake is six feet low. Black Crappie - Good: Slowly troll jigs over humps and drop-offs in the lake. Largemouth Bass - Good: Anglers are catching bass in tree piles using plastics.

For more information on lakes in the Southwest District call the Cold Springs office at 712-769-2587.

Green Valley Lake
Largemouth Bass - Slow: Use jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles to catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches. Black Crappie - Slow: Catch crappie up to 9 inches with jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles. Bluegill - Slow: Catch bluegill up to 7.5 inches with jigs tipped with live bait fished near the fishing jetties or cedar tree brush piles. 

Lake Icaria
Bluegill - Slow: Catch bluegill of all sizes with nightcrawlers fished under a bobber along the fish mounds. Channel Catfish - Good: Use nightcrawlers fished along rocky shoreline areas to catch channel catfish of all sizes.

Little River Watershed Lake
Bluegill - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles to catch bluegill up to 8.5 inches. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches with jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles or along weed lines. 

Three Mile Lake
Walleye - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished along the creek channels to catch walleyes up to 22 inches. Bluegill - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles to catch bluegill of all sizes.

Twelve Mile Creek Lake
Black Crappie - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished along cedar tree brush piles or creek channels to catch crappie up to 11 inches. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches with jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles. Bluegill - Slow: Catch bluegill of all sizes with jigs tipped with live bait fished along the weed line or cedar tree brush piles.

Water temperature in most Mount Ayr district lakes is in the low to mid-80's. For more information, contact the Mount Ayr Fisheries office at 641-464-3108.

[Rick]

NORTHWEST

Arrowhead Lake
Water clarity is good. Bluegill - Fair: Cast a small jig fished under a bobber near submerged structure along shore in 5-10 feet of water. Try small popping plugs on a fly rod on calm evenings. Cast plugs around downed trees along the shoreline. Try drifting down the middle of the lake with a 1/16 ounce leadhead in search of suspended fish. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Cast traditional bass lures near submerged woody structure throughout the lake and along weed lines in the southern part of the lake. 

Black Hawk Lake
Surface water temperatures are around 80 degrees.Water level is slightly below crest. Yellow Perch - Slow. Largemouth Bass – Fair: Cast traditional bass lures and plastics along shore and near docks. You can catch fish anywhere around the lake, but some of the best areas are Ice House point shoreline, inlet bay and bridge area near the outlet, and along Gunshot Hill. Walleye - Slow. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use natural baits like nightcrawlers, crawdads or shrimp fished around deeper rock piles. Try drifting at night to cover a lot of water. Bluegill – Fair.

Browns Lake
Channel Catfish - Fair: Look for channel catfish along the outside bend of the lake in deeper water. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Look for largemouth bass along the edges of the lotus patches and the deadfalls along the outside bend of the lake.

Brushy Creek Lake
Brushy Creek is currently being drawn-down four feet for a construction project. Launch boats at the north ramp or the west ramp; docks have been adjusted at the west ramp to make them easier to use. Black Crappie - Fair: Use a small piece of crawler or minnow on a jig either drifting or fished under a bobber near submerged woody structure. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Throw traditional bass lures, plastics or weedless lures near submerged structure and along weed lines. Yellow Perch - Slow. Walleye – Slow. Bluegill - Fair.  Channel Catfish - Fair: Brushy Creek Lake has a low-density population of larger channel catfish. Target these larger fish near shore with rocky structure using a variety of cut baits and crankbaits.

North Twin Lake
Water temperature is in the low 80's. Water clarity is around 1-2 feet. Yellow Bass - Fair: Use a small jig tipped with a piece of crawler or waxworm fished under a small bobber in 3-6 feet of water near shore. If fishing from a boat, you may need to move around to stay on top of fish. Yellow bass are 6-10 inches long. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are numerous in North Twin Lake. Use natural baits like nightcrawlers, crawdads, or shrimp fished near shore. If fishing from a boat, try drifting at night over deeper water. Bluegill - Slow: Try small jigs tipped with a crawler fished under a bobber along shore near vegetation edges. Walleye - Slow: Try trolling walleye in the middle of the basin using crankbaits or crawler harnesses.

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Water clarity is 2 to 6 feet, depending on location in the lake. Storm Lake has a daily limit of 3 walleye, and all 17- to 22-inch walleye must be released; no more than one walleye longer than 22 inches may be taken per day. Walleye - Fair: Drift with leeches or crawlers along the dredge cuts and troll crankbaits in the main lake. White Bass - Fair: Pick up white bass from shore and in the main like while trolling. Use twisters, crawlers or crankbaits in the marina, near the inlet and north and east shores in the main lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try a variety of dip baits, cut baits and crankbaits fished near shore and anywhere with rocky structure. Bluegill - Slow: Find panfish around patches of vegetation. Yellow Perch - Slow: Look for panfish around patches of vegetation. Black Crappie - Slow: Find panfish around patches of vegetation.

Water temperatures are in the lower 80's in the Black Hawk District. For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Beeds Lake
Bluegill – Fair: Use a small piece of crawler under a bobber near the shore. Black Crappie – Good: Drift fish a minnow or small tube jig. Yellow Bass – Fair.

Clear Lake
The water temperature is in the mid-70's. Walleye - Fair: Anglers are catching walleyes drift fishing a jig and crawler near vegetation. Try slip bobber fishing or jigging a leech on the rock reefs. Yellow Bass – Fair: Try drift fishing a small jig. Channel Catfish - Good: Try cut bait or chicken liver fished on the bottom after dark.

Crystal Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Drift fish a minnow or small jig near the dredge cut. Largemouth Bass - Good.

For information on the lakes and rivers in north central Iowa, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

East Okoboji Lake
The walleye season is open. The water temperature is 78 degrees. Bluegill – Good: Find schools in deeper water. Black Crappie – Fair. Yellow Perch – Good. Yellow Bass – Good.

Lake Pahoja
Bluegill - Good: Use small jigs tipped with waxworms. Black Crappie - Good: Try small jigs tipped with waxworms. Largemouth Bass - Good: Use rubber worms or other slow-moving jigs.

Lost Island Lake
Yellow Perch – Fair. Walleye – Fair.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
Walleye – Good.

Spirit Lake
The walleye season is open. A great walleye bite was seen in June, but has slowed due to warm water conditions. A great yellow perch bite has been seen lately with many yellows over 10 inches caught. The water temperature is 77 degrees. Bluegill - Good: Schools are starting to move deeper off shore post-spawn. Walleye - Fair: A fairly good bite lately can also be seen from shore. Try bottom bouncers or crankbaits to cover more water. Black Bullhead - Fair: Anglers have been successful at the north grade. Yellow Perch - Fair: The bite has really picked up; fish are a little deeper than what can be easily fished from shore. Try small humps in the main basin or weed edges. 

West Okoboji Lake
The walleye season is open. The water temperature is 78 degrees. The panfish bite has been great. Bluegill - Excellent: Schools are deeper off shore. Try fishing in about 16 feet of water in the weeds or weed lines. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Find smallmouth bass on rock piles or on the points.. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Find largemouth bass on the weed lines. Yellow Perch - Fair: Schools have started to move deeper off shore. Yellow Bass - Excellent: Easily find yellow bass while fishing for bluegill.

Iowa Great Lake water temperatures have warmed up up substantially and are currently 77 degrees or warmer. This week’s extended forecast calls for temperatures ranging from the lower 70's to lower 80's. The area walleye bite has slowed considerably due to very warm water conditions. The panfish bite has been excellent in deeper water, especially on West Okoboji. The overall bite should pick up as temperatures go down. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Repairs to the Nashua dam continue as water levels and flows drop. Water levels are falling with good water clarity. Use caution; underwater hazards may have moved. Go to the USGS Current Conditions website for more information on water levels. Channel Catfish - Good: Use chicken liver and stinkbaits or dead chub fished on the bottom out of current. Walleye - Good: Try a jig tipped with a bright plastic tail for quick action. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Use a jig tipped with natural colored twister tails and crank or spinnerbaits.

Decorah District Streams
Wild parsnip has seeded out. Avoid touching this plant; it's sap causes painful blisters. All trout stream stockings are unannounced due to COVID-19 precautions. A small number of trout streams are not stocked in July and August due to marginal water temperatures; this is an annual occurrence. To check which ones, please visit our trout fishing website. Rainbow Trout - Excellent:Try a worm or cheese bait floated through a pool under a bobber. Use an ultra-light pole and reel for fun action. Try small crappie or bluegill jigs. Brown Trout - Good: Hoppers, beetles and bugs are plentiful. Use flies imitating terrestrial insects fished along grassed edges. Use hair jigs or spinners for aggressive fish. Brook Trout - Good: Please respect private property open to angling; pick up trash and be considerate. Bead-headed midges and pheasant tail nymphs work well.

Lake Hendricks
A severe green algal bloom continues to limit visibility. Early morning and evening bite are best. Bluegill - Fair: Try a small piece of worm on a hook under a bobber. Find fish along rocky shoreline in deeper water. Channel Catfish - Good: With warmer water temperatures, try cheese or stinkbaits. A fat juicy worm will also work. Largemouth Bass - Good: Use topwater lures or weedless hooks fished along weed edges. 

Lake Meyer
Water clarity is excellent. Filamentous algae mats are covering vegetation in shallow water. Fish early morning and evening when shadows aren't cast on the water. Bluegill - Fair: Try a small piece of worm fished under a bobber along a rocky shore. Largemouth Bass - Good: Use a jig tipped with a twister tail or worm fished along vegetated edges. Also try using a topwater lure. Channel Catfish - Good: Try chicken liver or nightcrawlers fished on the bottom :near stumps or other structure.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Water levels are falling with improved clarity. Go to the USGS Current Conditions website for more information on water levels. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try a jig tipped with a ringworm or twister tail fished along a current break or rock ledge. Walleye - Good: Find walleye in deeper holes around brush piles. Toss a jig tipped with a twister tail near a brush pile. 

Upper Iowa River (above Decorah)
Water levels are falling with improved clarity. Current remains strong. Water hazards may have moved. Walleye - Good: Flip a jig with twister tail along a brush pile or rock ledge. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Toss a small crankbait along a current break or rock ledge.

Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)
Water levels are falling with  excellent clarity. Walleye - Good: Find walleye along current breaks or around log jams. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Use a jig tipped with brightly colored plastics or a crankbait imitating crawdads. Channel Catfish - Good: Bank anglers using nightcrawlers fished on the bottom are catching catfish.

Volga Lake
Best bite is early morning or just before dark. A green algae bloom is causing poor water clarity. Bluegill - Fair: Use a small hook tipped with waxworm or small piece of nightcrawler fished around brush piles and rocky shores. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use a jig tipped with a ringworm or twister tail. Channel Catfish - Good: Try a nightcrawler, cheese bait or chicken livers fished on the bottom. Best catfishing lake around. 

Area rivers and streams water levels continue to fall. Flows remain high. Water clarity is excellent. Expect a pleasant weekend with low humidity and temperatures in the 80's for highs and 60's for lows. Pop-up thunderstorms are possible. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

Casey Lake (aka Hickory Hills Lake)
Anglers are catching largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and channel catfish. Some sorting may be needed on bluegill; crappie and catfish angling is best early morning or late evening. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast crankbaits, spinnerbaits, topwater and plastics. Black Crappie - Good: Cast and retrieve colored tube jigs. Bluegill - Good: Try a small piece of worm under a bobber with a small split shot sinker and small hook. Channel Catfish - Good: Cast dead cut baits, chicken livers or stinkbait on the bottom of the lake; early morning or later evening bite is best.

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
Channel Catfish - Good: Cast dead cut baits, chicken livers or stinkbait on the bottom of the river; early morning or later evening bite is best.

George Wyth Lake
Good reports of largemouth bass being caught. Newly placed habitat in and around the floating pier may provide success. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast crankbaits, spinnerbaits, topwater and plastics. Bluegill - Fair: Use a small piece of worm under a bobber with a small split shot sinker and small hook.

Maquoketa River (above Monticello)
Anglers are catching walleye and smallmouth bass on the Maquoketa River. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Cast spinnerbaits or crankbaits. Walleye - Fair: Cast crankbaits or fish a half of a crawler on a jig and plastic rig.

Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)
We received no information about fishing on this waterbody this week.

South Prairie Lake
Channel Catfish - Good: Early morning and late evening bite is best. Try shrimp, stinkbait, or chicken livers fished on the bottom.

Wapsipinicon River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)
We received no information about fishing on this waterbody this week. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Cast spinnerbaits or crankbaits. Walleye - Fair: Cast crankbaits or fish a half of a crawler on a jig and plastic rig. Northern Pike - Good: Cast spoons, spinnerbaits, or crankbaits. 

Interior rivers continue to drop and are providing some catches of smallmouth bass, walleye, northern pike and channel catfish. Lakes in and around Cedar Falls/Waterloo area are providing some catches of largemouth bass. Trout streams remain in excellent condition. All three trout hatcheries remain closed. Call the Manchester Hatchery at 563-927-3276 for more information.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9
River level is 9.17 feet at Lansing and is expected to rise over the weekend to 9.5 feet and then stabilize. Water temperature is in the low 80's. New Albin Army road is open. Hwy 82, Lansing Bridge has reopened. Use caution at ramps during low water. Lansing Village Creek is shallow near the creek mouth. Heytman's Landing is accessible with shallow drive boats only. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are biting on crankbaits on wing dams and channel border structure. Northern Pike - Good: Try in areas of colder streams and springs entering the Mississippi River. Yellow Perch - Fair: Use a small piece of crawler fished just off the bottom near shorelines with slight current. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies are in about 10 feet of water. Use a minnow under a bobber in areas with less current in backwaters or side channels. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast plastics or blade baits along edges of vegetation beds in backwater lakes. Smallmouth Bass - Excellent: Try spinnerbaits fished in rock piles at the tip of the islands on main channel borders. Shovelnose sturgeon - Fair: Some shovelnose are being picked up with a crawler fished off the bottom in main channel areas. Flathead Catfish - Fair: Flathead bite has slowed, but some are being caught on shiners or a small bluegill for bait. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Try nightcrawlers or cut bait fished off the bottom in deeper side channel areas. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are spawning. Use light tackle tipped with small piece of worm along the shorelines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Use a crawler fished on the bottom along current breaks.

Mississippi River Pool 10
River level is 617 feet at Lynxville and is expected to rise a foot over the weekend to 618.1 feet and then stabilize. Water temperature is in the low 80's. Sny Magill access is open. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are biting on crankbaits on wing dams and channel border structure. Northern Pike - Excellent: Try in areas of colder streams and springs entering the Mississippi River. Yellow Perch - Excellent: Use a small piece of crawler fished just off the bottom near shorelines with slight current. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies are in 8-10 feet of water. Use a minnow under a bobber in areas near current breaks in backwaters and side channels. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast plastics or blade baits along edges of vegetation beds in backwater lakes. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try spinnerbaits fished in rock piles at the tip of the islands on main channel borders. Shovelnose sturgeon - Good: Some shovelnose are being picked up using a crawler fished off the bottom in main channel areas. Flathead Catfish - Fair: Flathead bite has slowed, but some are still being caught on shiners or a small bluegill for bait. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Try nightcrawlers or cut bait fished off the bottom in deeper side channel areas.  Bluegill - Excellent: Bluegills are spawning. Use light tackle tipped with small piece of worm along the shorelines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Try a crawler fished on the bottom along current breaks.

Mississippi River Pool 11
River level is 8.9 feet at Guttenberg and is expected to rise a foot over the weekend to 9.8 feet and then stabilize. Water temperature is in the low 80's. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are biting on crankbaits on wing dams and channel border structure. Northern Pike - Excellent: Try in areas of colder streams and springs entering the Mississippi River. Yellow Perch - Fair: Use a small piece of crawler fished just off the bottom near shorelines with slight current. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies are in about 10 feet of water. Use a minnow under a bobber in areas with less current in backwaters and side channels. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast plastics or blade baits along edges of vegetation beds in backwater lakes. Smallmouth Bass - Excellent: Try spinnerbaits fished in rock piles at the tip of the islands on main channel borders. Shovelnose sturgeon - Fair: Some shovelnose are being picked up with a crawler fished off the bottom in main channel areas. Flathead Catfish - Fair: Flathead bite has slowed, but some are still being caught on shiners or a small bluegill for bait. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Try nightcrawlers or cut bait fished off the bottom in deeper side channel areas. Bluegill - Good: Bluegills are spawning. Use light tackle tipped with small piece of worm along the shorelines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Try a crawler fished on the bottom along current breaks.

Upper Mississippi River levels are expected to rise slightly over the weekend and then stabilize. Water clarity is good. Walleye slot length limits now apply on the entire Mississippi River. All walleyes less than 15 inches long and between 20-27 inches long must be released immediately. Only one walleye greater than 27 inches can be kept. Combined walleye/sauger daily harvest limit of 6 and possession of 12.

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
Water levels are expected to recede slowly. The water level is near 7.2 feet at the Lock and Dam and 10.2 feet at the RR bridge.The water temperature is around 80 degrees. The water clarity is good. Northern Pike - Good: Flashy spinners in eddy areas or along weed lines will take this toothy predator. Bluegill - Slow: Bluegills are still being reported in shallow backwater areas near brush piles. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Lots of anglers are using prepared stinkbaits. Try floating worms along rock lines.  Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on an egg sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Lots of bass are being taken off lily pad areas on spinnerbaits or frog imitation lures. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Some smallies have moved in along the rock piles; use flashy spoons or crankbaits. Walleye – Slow. White Bass - Good: Many white bass are being caught in the Dubuque tailwater on white jigs.

Mississippi River Pool 13
Water level is near 8.2 feet at the Bellevue Lock and Dam. The water temperature is 80 degrees. The water clarity is good. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Catfish have moved along rock lines and brush piles in moderate current. Most anglers are using prepared stinkbaits. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Northern Pike - Good: Try flashy spinners fished along old weed edges and rock shorelines. Largemouth Bass - Excellent: Bass are being taken off lily pad areas on spinnerbaits or frog imitation lures. Some are also being caught off the rocks in the tailwater. Bluegill - Fair: Try fishing around brush piles in larger sloughs with reduced current. Flathead Catfish - Good: Use live fish for bait. Lots of trot lines are being set; make sure you follow trot lines rules, especially having a tag with your name and address attached to the lines. White Bass - Fair: Some white bass are being reported in the tailwater; use flashy small spinners.

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is near 7.5 feet at the Fulton Lock and Dam, 11 feet at Camanche and 6 feet at LeClaire. Water temperature is 80 degrees. Water clarity is good. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Anglers are using prepared stinkbaits along rock lines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a worm sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Lots of bass are being taken off lily pad areas on spinnerbaits or frog imitation lures. Some are being taken off of exposed rock piles. Northern Pike - Good: Use flashy spinners along backwater shorelines or in the tailwaters for this aggressive fish. Flathead Catfish - Excellent: Try live fish for bait. Lots of trot lines are being set; make sure you follow trot lines rules, especially having a tag with your name and address attached to the lines. Bluegill - Fair: Find bluegills near the mouths of large backwater areas, usually around brush piles. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try spinners or crankbaits along rip-rap areas.

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water level is around 8.6 feet at Rock Island and is receding. The water temperature is 80 degrees; water clarity is good. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a worm sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Channel cats are readily biting on cut bait and prepared baits. Flathead Catfish - Excellent: Try live bait around brush piles or in the tailwater area. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Fish the rocky habitats along the channel edge. White Bass - Fair: A few white bass are starting to show up in the creel on white jigs or small spinners.

Water level is expected to slowly recede. Water temperature is near 80 degrees. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-880-8781.

 

Mississippi River Pool 16
River stage is 8.56 feet at Lock and Dam 15 in the Quad Cities and has been falling slowly the past few days. Channel Catfish - Good: Use chicken livers or dip baits around brush piles and snags along the main channel and side channels. White Crappie - No Report: Look for crappies in the backwaters. Try jigs and plastics or minnows fished in Sunset Marina or Andalusia Island Complex. Bluegill - No Report: Try pieces of worm under a bobber in Sunset Marina or Andalusia Island Complex. Walleye - No Report: Look for walleyes on the wingdams or Sylvan Slough. Try trolling crankbaits or three-way rigs with pieces of crawler. 

Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage is 7.34 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine and has been falling slowly the past few days. The ramp at Big Timber is open. The Kilpeck Landing is also open. Channel Catfish - No Report: Use chicken livers or dip baits around brush piles and snags in the main channel and side channels. White Bass -Good: Look for white bass by the dam or by GPC. Cast jigs and twister tails or crankbaits. Bluegill - No Report: Look for bluegills in the backwaters. Try pieces of worm under a bobber fished around brush piles in Big Timber or Cleveland Slough. Walleye - No Report: Look for walleyes on the wing dams. Try trolling crankbaits or pulling three-way rigs with crawlers.

Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage is 8.64 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston and is slowly falling. The Toolsboro ramp is open. Channel Catfish - No Report: Use or chicken livers or dip baits around brush piles and snags in the main channel and side channels. White Bass - Fair: Cast crankbaits in Belle Pocket. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Some largemouth bass are being caught in Boston Bay. 

Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage is 5.41 feet at Lock and Dam 18 has been falling slowly. River stage is 10.95 feet at Burlington.  River stage is 526.37 feet at Ft. Madison. We have not received any fishing report information for this pool this week.

River stages have been falling slowly the past few days, but are forecast to start rising slightly by the end of the weekend. Main channel water temperature is around 82 degrees. Water clarity is fair. If you have questions on fishing Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.

SOUTHEAST

Iowa River (Columbus Junction to Mississippi River
The Iowa River in this section is holding at about 4 foot below bank full level with a decent current speed. Channel Catfish - Fair: A few more anglers were out this week. The log jams and snags are holding the fish. Still more than enough water that catfish are "holed up" as at lower water levels.

Lake Belva Deer
Water is fairly clear, but with a green cast to it. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Go to the upper end of the lake and work over the top of the mounds with crankbaits or soft plastics. Bluegill - Fair: Use small jigs tipped with waxworms around the flooded trees in 16-18 feet of water. Black Crappie - Fair: Try slow trolling at the lower end of the lake early in the morning. The bite ends by 10 am. 

Lake Darling
Water temperature should start cooling off some with the predicted weather forecast. Water has a green color to it. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Cooler weather in the forecast may bring some of the bass back in shallow in the mornings and evenings. Bluegill - Fair: Keep working rock and brush piles in 5 to 8 feet of water. Black Crappie - Slow: Anglers are still picking up a few crappies while trolling down the middle of the lake.

Lost Grove Lake
Water is fairly clear with a green cast to it.  Early and late bite will be best with water temperatures in the mid 80's. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Bass fishing picked up a little bit over the weekend. Still mostly an early morning bite. Bluegill - Fair: Work small jigs tipped with a trailer or live bait in 12 -16 feet of water.

Skunk River (Rose Hill to Coppock)
The Skunk River settled to a level just under half bank full. The current has slowed down. Channel Catfish - Fair: Start working to usual summer haunts of the bigger log jams and off the back edges of the sand bars (those that are starting to stick out of the water.)

For more information on the above lakes, call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

 

Coralville Reservoir
The lake level is at normal summer pool of 683.5 feet. Channel Catfish - Fair: Drift/troll cut bait in the channel.

Diamond Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Try small jigs over deeper brush or suspended over the basin. Bluegill - Fair: Use small jigs or worms around brush piles. Channel Catfish - Good: Try stinkbait or crawlers.

Lake Macbride
The 10 hp outboard maximum limit is in effect. White Bass - Fair: Look for surface activity towards evening; throw topwater baits or small plastics. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Look for surface activity towards evening; throw topwater lures or small plastics. Walleye - Slow: Troll shad colored crankbaits or worm harnesses in 7-13 feet of water. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Target shallow cover or deeper rock piles. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try stinkbait or crawlers. 

Otter Creek Lake
Channel Catfish - Good: Nice-sized fish are hitting on crawlers or stinkbait. Morning and evening bite is best. Bluegill - Slow: Target brush piles or PVC structures with jigs or worms. Yellow Bass - Slow: Try small jigs, spinners or live bait fished in the shallows.

Pleasant Creek Lake
Bluegill – Fair: Some fish remain around shallow brush and vegetation. Channel Catfish - Slow: Try stinkbait and crawlers. Walleye - Fair: Some fish have been caught in the evenings. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Some fish are being caught shallow. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Look for surface activity, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Sand Lake
This is the quarry on the east side of Marshalltown. Channel Catfish – Fair: Use cut bait and live bait.  Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) – Fair: Look for surface activity early in the mornings. Catch fish up to 20 inches.

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

Hawthorn Lake
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use spinnerbaits or crankbaits along rock piles and rip-rapped shores. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try liver or stinkbait.

Lake Miami
Bluegill - Fair: Try small jigs around the fishing jetties. Drift fishing from a boat can also produce some bluegills this time of year. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use topwater lures early and late in the day. Try crankbaits around the cedar trees and along the rip-rapped shorelines. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use nightcrawlers or liver in 4-8 feet of water. 

Lake Sugema
Black Crappie - Slow: Drift minnows in 6-10 feet of water for suspended crappies. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use topwater lures along the shorelines; fish deeper with crankbaits or rubber worms.

Lake Wapello
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try topwater lures early and late in the day; target cedar tree piles. As the day warms up, try plastics fished deeper around tree piles. Bluegill - Slow: Drift nightcrawlers on small jigs for suspended bluegills. Target areas in 6-8 feet of water. Channel Catfish - Slow: Use nightcrawlers or stinkbait. Don’t fish too deep; lakes will stratify this time of year. 

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 904.49 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another waterbody. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) – Fair: Try trolling crankbaits around schools of shad. Look for the shad to break the surface as they are being chased from below by the hybrids. Walleye - Fair: Troll gizzard shad imitating crankbaits around rock piles submerged points and areas with depth changes. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try nightcrawlers or chicken liver in 6-8 feet of water.

Red Haw Lake
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try topwater lures early and late in the day. Use spinnerbaits and crankbaits during the hotter parts of the day. Target submerged structure and rocky shorelines. Bluegill - Slow: Try drifting with nightcrawlers in the main part of the lake.

The district includes Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST

Big Creek Lake
Walleye - Slow: Troll live bait rigs or crankbaits at depths of 15 feet or less in the upper half of the lake. Black Crappie - Fair: Drift or troll jigs with twister or paddle tails in the upper half of the lake. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Cast or troll shad imitating spoons, crankbaits or plastics. Look for schools of young shad breaking the surface of the water to find feeding wipers.

Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock)
Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish and flathead catfish are being caught. Try live bait, stinkbait and crawlers.

Des Moines River (Stratford to Saylorville Lake)
Channel Catfish - Good: Try stinkbaits or cut bait fished in or just upstream of tree falls.

Don Williams Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Drift or troll panfish jigs in the middle half of the lake. Start just out from the docks in the boat ramp area. Most crappies are 8.5 to 10 inches. 

Red Rock Reservoir
White Bass - Fair: Troll or cast shad imitating spoons and shallow diving crankbaits. Look for schools of small shad busting on the surface to find feeding fish.

For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

Lake Anita
Bluegill - Slow: Drifg or troll small jigs tipped with berkly or nightcrawlers in 6 to 8 feet of water. Black Crappie - Fair: Best bite is early morning around tree piles and along the two road beds in the lake. Largemouth Bass - Good: Anita has a good bass population. Find fish along vegetation edges and around tree piles. Channel Catfish - Fair: Catfish are being caught on top of the two roadbeds in the lake.

Lake Manawa
Zebra mussels were found in Lake Manawa; clean, drain and dry your boat when leaving the lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are close to shore. Fish are all sizes in the lake. White Crappie - Fair: A few large white crappies are being caught on the west shore. Walleye - Fair: A few anglers are having good success trolling crankbaits using planner boards. Don't overlook running a crawler through the dredge cuts. 

Littlefield Lake
Littlefield has a good ring of aquatic vegetation. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills have moved around the cedar tree piles in the lake. Largemouth Bass - Good: There is a large number of 12 to 14-inch fish in the lake. Channel Catfish - Good: Cast cut or stinkbait along the dam to catch 2-4 pound channel catfish.

Meadow Lake
Water clarity is fair. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers report catching bluegills slow trolling and drifting. Fish average 8 inches. Largemouth Bass - No Report: There is a good population of largemouth bass up to 18 inches in the lake.

Prairie Rose Lake
Water temperature is 80 degrees. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers report good bluegill fishing in the mornings trolling or drifting small jigs. Black Crappie - Slow: There is a small population of large black crappies in the lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are being caught around the jetties and underwater reefs. Fish average 2 to 4 pounds. Largemouth Bass - Good: A large population of 12 to 14-inch bass offer fun catch and release fishing. 

Viking Lake
Viking Lake is six feet low. Black Crappie - Good: Slowly troll jigs over humps and drop-offs in the lake. Fish average 9 inches. Largemouth Bass - Good: Anglers are catching bass in tree piles using plastics. Channel Catfish - Fair: Cast stinkbait around tree piles to catch fish up to 6 pounds. 

For more information on lakes in the Southwest District call the Cold Springs office at 712-769-2587.

Green Valley Lake
Largemouth Bass - Slow: Use jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles to catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches. Black Crappie - Slow: Catch crappie up to 9 inches with jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles. Bluegill - Slow: Catch bluegill up to 7.5 inches with jigs tipped with live bait fished near the fishing jetties or cedar tree brush piles. 

Lake Icaria
Bluegill - Slow: Catch bluegill of all sizes with nightcrawlers fished under a bobber along the fish mounds. Channel Catfish - Good: Use nightcrawlers fished along rocky shoreline areas to catch channel catfish of all sizes.

Little River Watershed Lake
Bluegill - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles to catch bluegill up to 8.5 inches. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches with jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles or along weed lines. 

Three Mile Lake
Walleye - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished along the creek channels to catch walleyes up to 22 inches. Bluegill - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished near creek channels and the dirt mounds to catch bluegill of all sizes.

Twelve Mile Creek Lake
Black Crappie - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished along cedar tree brush piles or creek channels to catch crappie up to 11 inches. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches with jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles. Bluegill - Slow: Catch bluegill of all sizes with jigs tipped with live bait fished along the weed line or cedar tree brush piles.

Water temperature in most Mount Ayr district lakes is in the low to mid-80's. For more information, contact the Mount Ayr Fisheries office at 641-464-3108.

[Rick]

NORTHWEST

Arrowhead Lake
Water clarity is good. Bluegill - Fair: Cast a small jig fished under a bobber near submerged structure along shore in 5-10 feet of water. Try small popping plugs on a fly rod on calm evenings. Cast plugs around downed trees along the shoreline. Try drifting down the middle of the lake with a 1/16 ounce leadhead to find suspended fish. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Cast traditional bass lures near submerged woody structure throughout the lake and along weed lines in the southern part of the lake. 

Black Hawk Lake
Surface water temperatures are around 78 degrees.Water level is a few inches below crest. Yellow Perch - Slow. Largemouth Bass – Fair: Cast traditional bass lures and plastics along shore and near docks. You can catch fish anywhere around the lake, but some of the best areas are Ice House point shoreline, inlet bay and bridge area near the outlet, and along Gunshot Hill. Walleye - Slow. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use natural baits like nightcrawlers, crawdads or shrimp fished around deeper rock piles. Try drifting at night to cover a lot of water. Target catfish around the inlet bridge, especially if there is some flow following a rain event. Bluegill – Fair. Black Crappie - Fair: Anglers are picking up crappie around and inside the fish house. Many of the crappie are 8 to 9-inches, but a few bigger ones are mixed in. Use a small white jig or a small live minnow under a bobber. 

Browns Lake
Channel Catfish - Fair: Look for channel catfish along the outside bend of the lake in deeper water. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Look for largemouth bass along the edges of the lotus patches and the deadfalls along the outside bend of the lake.

Brushy Creek Lake
Brushy Creek is currently being drawn-down four feet for a construction project. Launch boats at the north ramp or the west ramp; docks have been adjusted at the west ramp to make them easier to use. Black Crappie - Fair: Use a small piece of crawler or minnow on a jig either drifting or fished under a bobber near submerged woody structure. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Throw traditional bass lures, plastics or weedless lures near submerged structure and along weed lines. Yellow Perch - Slow. Walleye – Slow. Bluegill - Fair.  Channel Catfish - Fair: Brushy Creek Lake has a low-density population of larger channel catfish. Target these larger fish near shore with rocky structure using a variety of cut baits and crankbaits.

North Twin Lake
Surface water temperature is around 77 degrees. Water clarity is around 16 inches. Water levels are about 4 to 6 inches below crest. Yellow Bass - Fair: Use a small jig tipped with a piece of crawler or waxworm fished under a small bobber in 3-6 feet of water near shore. If fishing from a boat, you may need to move around to stay on top of fish. Yellow bass are 6-10 inches long. A lot of yellow bass are hanging out around the dead falls and woody structure in Muddy Bay and along the wooded shoreline just south of Muddy Bay. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are numerous in North Twin Lake. Use natural baits like nightcrawlers, crawdads, or shrimp fished near shore. If fishing from a boat, try drifting at night over deeper water. Bluegill - Slow: Try small jigs tipped with a crawler fished under a bobber along shore near vegetation edges. Walleye - Slow: Try trolling walleye in the middle of the basin using crankbaits or crawler harnesses. Recent surveys show a lot of big walleye along the wooded shoreline just south of Muddy Bay. 

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Water clarity is 2 to 6 feet, depending on location in the lake. Storm Lake has a daily limit of 3 walleye, and all 17- to 22-inch walleye must be released; no more than one walleye longer than 22 inches may be taken per day. Walleye - Fair: Drift with leeches or crawlers along the dredge cuts and troll crankbaits in the main lake. White Bass - Fair: Pick up white bass from shore and in the main like while trolling. Use twisters, crawlers or crankbaits in the marina, near the inlet and north and east shores in the main lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try a variety of dip baits, cut baits and crankbaits fished near shore and anywhere with rocky structure or rock piles. Bluegill - Slow: Find panfish around patches of vegetation. Yellow Perch - Slow: Look for panfish around patches of vegetation. Black Crappie - Slow: Find panfish around patches of vegetation.

Water temperatures are in the upper 70's in the Black Hawk District. For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Beeds Lake
Bluegill – Fair: Use a small piece of crawler under a bobber near the shore. Black Crappie – Good: Drift fish a minnow or small tube jig. Yellow Bass – Fair.

Clear Lake
The water temperature is in the mid-70's. Walleye - Fair: Anglers are catching walleyes drift fishing a jig and crawler near vegetation. Try slip bobber fishing or jigging a leech on the rock reefs. Best bite is early morning and late evening. Yellow Bass – Fair: Try drift fishing a small jig and minnow. Channel Catfish - Good: Try cut bait or crawler fished on the bottom after dark.

Crystal Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Drift fish a minnow or small jig near the dredge cut. Largemouth Bass - Fair.

Lower Pine Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Best bite is in the evening. Bluegill - Good: Lots of 3 to 6-inch fish.

Upper Pine Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Best bite is in the evening. Bluegill - Good: lots of 3 to 6-inch fish.

For information on the lakes and rivers in north central Iowa, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

East Okoboji Lake
The walleye season is open. The water temperature is 73 degrees. Bluegill – Good: Find schools in deeper water. Black Crappie – Fair. Yellow Perch – Good. Yellow Bass – Good.

Lake Pahoja
Bluegill - Good: Use small jigs tipped with waxworms. Black Crappie - Good: Try small jigs tipped with waxworms. Largemouth Bass - Good: Use rubber worms or other slow-moving jigs.

Lost Island Lake
Yellow Perch – Fair. Walleye – Fair.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
Walleye – Good.

Spirit Lake
The walleye season is open. A great walleye bite was seen in June, but has slowed due to warm water conditions. A great yellow perch bite has slowed down, with many yellows over 10 inches caught. As temperatures continue to drop, bites should pick up again. The water temperature is 72 degrees. Bluegill - Good: Schools are starting to move deeper off shore post-spawn. Walleye - Fair: A fairly good bite lately can also be seen from shore. Try bottom bouncers or crankbaits to cover more water. Black Bullhead - Fair: Anglers have been successful at the north grade. Yellow Perch - Fair: The bite has really picked up; fish are a little deeper than what can be easily fished from shore. Try small humps in the main basin or weed edges. 

West Okoboji Lake
The walleye season is open. The water temperature is 73 degrees. The panfish bite has been great.The ability to anchor or use Spot Lock is very useful to stay on fish. Bluegill - Excellent: Schools are deeper off shore. Try fishing in about 16 feet of water in the weeds or weed lines. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Find smallmouth bass on rock piles or on the points.. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Find largemouth bass on the weed lines. Yellow Perch - Fair: Schools have started to move deeper off shore. Yellow Bass - Excellent: Easily find yellow bass while fishing for bluegill.

Iowa Great Lake water temperatures have cooled down a bit and are currently around 72 degrees. This week’s extended forecast calls for temperatures ranging from the upper 70's to lower 80's. The area walleye bite has slowed considerably due to very warm water conditions. The panfish bite has been excellent in deeper water, especially on West Okoboji. The overall bite should pick up as temperatures go down. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Repairs to the Nashua dam continue as water levels and flows drop. Water levels are falling with good water clarity. Use caution; underwater hazards may have moved. Go to the USGS Current Conditions website for more information on water levels. Channel Catfish - Good: Use chicken liver and stinkbaits or dead chub fished on the bottom in slow water. Walleye - Good: Try a jig tipped with a bright plastic tail for quick action. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Use a jig tipped with natural colored twister tails or nightcrawler in the brush piles. Black Crappie - Fair: Find crappie in brush piles or around woody structure. Use a minnow under a bobber. 

Decorah District Streams
All trout stream stockings are unannounced due to COVID-19 precautions. A small number of trout streams are not stocked in July and August due to marginal water temperatures; this is an annual occurrence. To check which ones, please visit our trout fishing website. Rainbow Trout - Excellent:Try a worm or cheese bait floated through a pool under a bobber. Use an ultra-light pole and reel for fun action. Try small crappie or bluegill jigs. Brown Trout - Good: Hoppers, beetles and bugs are plentiful. Use flies imitating terrestrial insects fished along grassed edges. Use hair jigs or spinners for aggressive fish. Brook Trout - Good: Please respect private property open to angling; pick up trash and be considerate. Bead-headed midges and pheasant tail nymphs work well.

Lake Hendricks
A green algal bloom continues to limit visibility. Early morning and evening bite are best. Bluegill - Fair: Try a small piece of worm on a small hook under a bobber. Find fish along rocky shoreline in deeper water. Channel Catfish - Good: With warmer water temperatures, try cheese or stinkbaits. A fat juicy worm will also work. Best bite is late evening. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use topwater lures or weedless hooks fished along weed edges. 

Lake Meyer
Water clarity is excellent at 7 feet. Filamentous algae mats are covering vegetation in shallow water. Fish early morning and evening when shadows aren't cast on the water. Bluegill - Fair: Try a small piece of worm fished under a bobber along a rocky shore. Largemouth Bass - Good: Use a jig tipped with a twister tail or worm fished along vegetated edges. Also try using a topwater lure. Channel Catfish - Good: Try chicken liver or nightcrawlers fished on the bottom :near stumps or other structure.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Water levels are falling. You might have to walk through some riffles. Clarity is excellent. Go to the USGS Current Conditions website for more information on water levels. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try a jig tipped with a ringworm or twister tail fished along a current break or rock ledge. Walleye - Good: Find walleye in deeper holes around brush piles. Toss a jig tipped with a twister tail near a brush pile. 

Upper Iowa River (above Decorah)
Water levels are falling with excellent clarity. Water hazards may have moved and sandbars are appearing. Walleye - Good: Flip a jig with twister tail along a brush pile or deeper pool. Smallmouth Bass - Slow: Toss a small crankbait along a current break or rock ledge.

Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)
Water levels are falling with excellent clarity. Sand and gravel bars are appearing. You might have to walk in a few places. Walleye - Good: Find walleye in deeper pools or around log jams. Try a jig with natural colored plastics. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Use a jig tipped with brightly colored plastics or a crankbait imitating crawdads fished in current breaks and deeper holes. Channel Catfish - Good: Anglers using nightcrawlers fished on the bottom towards dark in slower water are catching catfish.

Volga Lake
Best bite is early morning or just before dark. A green algae bloom is causing poor water clarity. Bluegill - Fair: Use a small hook tipped with waxworm or small piece of nightcrawler fished around brush piles and rocky shores. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use a jig tipped with a ringworm or twister tail. Channel Catfish - Good: Try a nightcrawler, cheese bait or chicken livers fished on the bottom. Best catfishing lake around. 

Area rivers and streams water levels continue to fall. Water clarity is excellent. Expect a hot humid weekend with temperatures in the upper 80's for highs and 60's for lows. Pop-up thunderstorms are possible. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

Casey Lake (aka Hickory Hills Lake)
Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast crankbaits and topwater artificial baits. Bluegill - Excellent: Try a piece of nightcrawler under a bobber. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Try stinkbaits or leopard frogs fished on the bottom of the lake.

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
Reports for walleye has been good in Bremer County. Channel Catfish - Good: Try fishing above fallen tree snags with stinkbaits or fresh chicken livers. Walleye - Good: Cast crankbaits or a jig tipped with a nightcrawler.

Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)
Walleye - No Report: Cast crankbaits or a jig tipped with a nightcrawler. Smallmouth Bass - No Report: Cast crankbaits or a jig tipped with a nightcrawler.

Wapsipinicon River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)
Reports of channel catfish being caught on the Wapsipinicon River. Channel Catfish - Good: Try fishing above fallen tree snags with stinkbaits or fresh chicken livers.

Interior rivers continue to drop and are providing excellent angling opportunities. Lakes in and around Cedar Falls/Waterloo area have been good for largemouth bass. Trout streams remain in excellent condition. All three trout hatcheries remain closed. Call the Manchester Hatchery at 563-927-3276 for more information.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 12
Water levels are expected to recede this week. The water level is near 9.2 feet at the Lock and Dam and 11.3 feet at the RR bridge.The water temperature is around 77 degrees. The water clarity is good. Northern Pike - Good: Flashy spinners in eddy areas or along weed lines will take this toothy predator. Bluegill - Slow: Bluegills are still being reported in shallow backwater areas near brush piles. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Lots of anglers are using prepared stinkbaits. Try floating worms along rock lines.  Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on an egg sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Largemouth Bass - Excellent: Lots of bass are being taken off lily pad areas on spinnerbaits or frog imitation lures. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Some smallies have moved in along the rock piles; use flashy spoons or crankbaits. Walleye – Slow: Some walleyes were being taken off the middle of wingdams in the lower water, but the recent rise in water level have hampered some anglers. White Bass - Good: Many white bass are being caught in the Dubuque tailwater on white jigs. Look for feeding schools elsewhere. 

Mississippi River Pool 13
Water level is near 10.2 feet at the Bellevue Lock and Dam. The water temperature is 77 degrees. The water clarity is fair. The recent water rise hampered fishing, but it is picking up again. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Catfish are along rock lines and brush piles in moderate current. Most anglers are using prepared stinkbaits. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Northern Pike - Good: Try flashy spinners fished along old weed edges and rock shorelines. Largemouth Bass - Excellent: Bass are being taken off lily pad areas on spinnerbaits or frog imitation lures. Some are also being caught off the rocks in the tailwater. Bluegill - Fair: Try fishing around brush piles in larger sloughs with reduced current. Flathead Catfish - Good: Use live fish for bait. Lots of trot lines are being set; make sure you follow trot lines rules, especially having a tag with your name and address attached to the lines. White Bass - Good: White bass are being reported in the tailwater; use flashy small spinners.

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is near 9.5 feet at the Fulton Lock and Dam, 12.4 feet at Camanche and 7 feet at LeClaire. Water temperature is 77 degrees. Water clarity is fair. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Anglers are using prepared stinkbaits along rock lines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a worm sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Lots of bass are being taken off lily pad areas on spinnerbaits or frog imitation lures. Some are being taken off of exposed rock piles. Northern Pike - Good: Use flashy spinners along backwater shorelines or in the tailwaters for this aggressive fish. Flathead Catfish - Excellent: Try live fish for bait. Lots of trot lines are being set; make sure you follow trot lines rules, especially having a tag with your name and address attached to the lines. Bluegill - Fair: Find bluegills near the mouths of large backwater areas, usually around brush piles. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try spinners or crankbaits along rip-rap areas. White Bass - No Report: Expect white bass to be hitting in the tailwaters and elsewhere. Look for feeding schools of fish; use flashy small spinners.

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water level is around 9.5 feet at Rock Island and is receding. The water temperature is 78 degrees; water clarity is fair. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a worm sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Channel cats are readily biting on cut bait and prepared baits. Flathead Catfish - Excellent: Try live bait around brush piles or in the tailwater area. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Fish the rocky habitats along the channel edge. 

Water level is expected to slowly recede. Water temperature is near 77 degrees. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-880-8781.

 

Mississippi River Pool 16
Tailwater stage is 9.46 feet at Lock and Dam 15 in the Quad Cities and has risen close to a foot since last week. Tailwater stage is forecast to start falling over the weekend.   Channel Catfish - Good: Use chicken livers or dip baits around brush piles and snags along the main channel and side channels. White Crappie - No Report: Look for crappies in the backwaters. Try jigs and plastics or minnows fished in Sunset Marina or Andalusia Island Complex. Bluegill - No Report: Try pieces of worm under a bobber in Sunset Marina or Andalusia Island Complex. Walleye - Fair: Look for walleyes on the wingdams or Sylvan Slough. Try trolling crankbaits or three-way rigs with pieces of crawler. White Bass - Fair: Some white bass are being caught in Sylvan Slough. Cast jigs and twister tails or crankbaits. 

Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage is 8.06 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine and has been rising the past few days. Tailwater stage is forecast to start falling over the weekend. The ramp at Big Timber is open. The Kilpeck Landing is also open. Channel Catfish - No Report: Use chicken livers or dip baits around brush piles and snags in the main channel and side channels. White Bass -Good: Look for white bass by the dam or by GPC. Cast jigs and twister tails or crankbaits. Bluegill - No Report: Look for bluegills in the backwaters. Try pieces of worm under a bobber fished around brush piles in Big Timber or Cleveland Slough. Walleye - No Report: Look for walleyes on the wing dams. Try trolling crankbaits or pulling three-way rigs with crawlers.

Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage is 9.12 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston and has been rising the past few days. Tailwater stage is forecast to start falling over the weekend. The Toolsboro ramp is open. Channel Catfish - No Report: Use or chicken livers or dip baits around brush piles and snags in the main channel and side channels. White Bass - Fair: Cast crankbaits in Belle Pocket. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Some largemouth bass are being caught in Boston Bay. 

Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage is 5.60 feet at Lock and Dam 18 has been been rising the past few days. Tailwater stage is forecast to start falling over the weekend. River stage is 11.08 feet at Burlington.  River stage is 526.46 feet at Ft. Madison. We have not received any fishing report information for this pool this week.

River stages have been rising the past few days, but are forecast to start falling over the weekend. Main channel water temperature is around 77 degrees. Water clarity is fair. If you have questions on fishing Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.

SOUTHEAST

Big Hollow Lake
Cooler nights have lowered the water temperature to the upper 70's. Water clarity still isn't the best since the last big rain. A lot of the duckweed got washed out of the lake. Bluegill - Fair: Thursday morning (8/7) some of the bluegills were in shallow. Work the brush piles in 6 feet of water. Try worm and bobber or a small jig tipped with live bait jigged vertically. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Toss soft plastics rigged weedless into the flooded timber. See just how far back into the trees you can get your boat. Channel Catfish - Fair: Work the shallows back in some of the bays where the deeper gullies drain into the lake.

Iowa River (Columbus Junction to Mississippi River
The Iowa River dropped another 1/2 foot since Monday (8/3). Some of the big sandbars above Wapello are showing up. Channel Catfish - Fair: With the reappearance of the big sand bars. use stinkbaits or chicken liver fished just off the back edge of the sandbars where they drop off into a deeper back eddy.

Lake Belva Deer
Water temperature was 78 degrees on Wednesday (8/5). Water clarity is 20 inches. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Early morning back in the flooded timber and around and over top of the mounds at the upper end. Bluegill - Good: With the cooler weather the bluegill bite picked up, especially over the mounds at the upper end of the lake. Black Crappie - Fair: Crappie fishing has picked up some this week. Try slow trolling at at the usual spots down at the lower end of the lake. Channel Catfish - Good: Catfishing has picked up over the last several days. Try along the face of the dam and around the rocks on the jetties.

Lake Darling
Water temperature has dropped back into the upper 70's. Water clarity is 15 inches. Too many hard rains to allow it to start to clear up; water is more brown than green.  Largemouth Bass - Fair: The bite is lasting longer in the mornings with the cooler nights. Use a lure that makes some noise to catch their attention with the poor water clarity. Bluegill - Fair: Try a jig tipped with live bait fished in the rock piles out in 6-8 feet of water. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use chicken liver; work the culvert piles at the base of the rip rap around the point and back around to the jetty over by the beach.

Lost Grove Lake
Water temperature is back into the 70's. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Early morning bite is best; the evening bite is picking up with the cooler weather. Bluegill - Fair: Work small jigs tipped with a trailer or live bait in 12 -16 feet of water. Cooler weather might bring them in a little shallower. 

Skunk River (Rose Hill to Coppock)
The Skunk River water level dropped this week. Water levels are low enough that anything bigger than a canoe will have problems getting around. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try stinkbaits and cut baits; the slower currents transmit their scents much better than fresh baits.

For more information on the above lakes, call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

 

Central Park Lake
Largemouth Bass - Good: Try soft plastics on dirt/rock transitions. Most fish are under legal size yet.

Coralville Reservoir
The lake level is at normal summer pool of 683.5 feet. Channel Catfish - Fair: Drift/troll cut bait in the channel.

Diamond Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Try small jigs over deeper brush or suspended over the basin. Bluegill - Fair: Use small jigs or worms around brush piles. Channel Catfish - Good: Try stinkbait or crawlers.

Lake Macbride
The 10 hp outboard maximum limit is in effect. White Bass - Fair: Look for surface activity towards evening; throw topwater baits or small plastics. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Look for surface activity towards evening; throw topwater lures or small plastics. Walleye - Slow: Troll shad colored crankbaits or worm harnesses in 7-13 feet of water. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Target shallow cover or deeper rock piles. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try stinkbait or crawlers. 

Otter Creek Lake
Channel Catfish - Good: Nice-sized fish are hitting on crawlers or stinkbait. Morning and evening bite is best. Bluegill - Slow: Target brush piles or PVC structures with jigs or worms. Yellow Bass - Slow: Try small jigs, spinners or live bait fished in the shallows.

Pleasant Creek Lake
Bluegill – Fair: Some fish remain around shallow brush and vegetation. Channel Catfish - Slow: Try stinkbait and crawlers. Walleye - Fair: Some fish have been caught in the evenings. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Some fish are being caught shallow. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Look for surface activity, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Sand Lake
This is the quarry on the east side of Marshalltown. Channel Catfish – Fair: Use cut bait and live bait.  Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) – Fair: Look for surface activity early in the mornings. Catch fish up to 20 inches.

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

Hawthorn Lake
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use spinnerbaits or crankbaits along rock piles and rip-rapped shores. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try liver or stinkbait in 4-8 feet of water.

Lake Miami
Bluegill - Fair: Try small jigs tipped with a chunk of nightcrawler around the fishing jetties. Drift fishing from a boat can produce some bluegills this time of year. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use topwater lures early and late in the day. Try crankbaits around the cedar trees and along the rip-rapped shorelines. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use nightcrawlers or liver in 4-8 feet of water. 

Lake Sugema
Black Crappie - Slow: Drift jigs tipped with a minnow in 6-10 feet of water for suspended crappies. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use topwater lures along the shorelines; fish deeper with crankbaits or rubber worms.

Lake Wapello
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try topwater lures early and late in the day; target cedar tree piles. As the day warms up, try plastics fished deeper around tree piles. Bluegill - Slow: Drift nightcrawlers on small jigs for suspended bluegills. Target areas in 6-8 feet of water. Channel Catfish - Slow: Use nightcrawlers or stinkbait. Don’t fish too deep; lakes will stratify this time of year. Black Crappie - Slow: Drift jigs tipped with minnows for suspended crappie. 

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 904.27 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another waterbody. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) – Fair: Try trolling crankbaits around schools of shad. Look for the shad to break the surface as they are being chased from below by the hybrids. Walleye - Fair: Troll gizzard shad imitating crankbaits around rock piles submerged points and areas with depth changes. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try nightcrawlers or chicken liver in 6-8 feet of water.

Red Haw Lake
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try topwater lures early and late in the day. Use spinnerbaits and crankbaits during the hotter parts of the day. Target submerged structure and rocky shorelines. Bluegill - Slow: Try drifting with nightcrawlers in the main part of the lake. Channel Catfish - Slow: Use chicken liver or stinkbait in 4-8 feet of water.

The district includes Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST

Big Creek Lake
Walleye - Slow: Troll live bait rigs or crankbaits at depths of 15 feet or less in the upper half of the lake. Black Crappie - Fair: Drift or troll jigs with twister or paddle tails in the upper half of the lake. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Cast or troll shad imitating spoons, crankbaits or plastics. Look for schools of young shad breaking the surface of the water to find feeding wipers.

Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock)
Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish and flathead catfish are being caught. Try live bait, stinkbait and crawlers.

Don Williams Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Drift or troll panfish jigs in the middle half of the lake. Start just out from the docks in the boat ramp area. Most crappies are 8.5 to 10 inches. 

Red Rock Reservoir
White Bass - Fair: Troll or cast shad imitating spoons and shallow diving crankbaits. Look for schools of small shad busting on the surface to find feeding fish.

Roberts Creek Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Drift or troll jigs with twister or paddle tails in the lower half of the lake.

Rock Creek Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: The crappie bite has been slow to fair. Drift or troll jigs tipped with minnows. Crappies larger than 9 inches are uncommon. Channel Catfish - Fair: Catch catfish from shore with stinkbaits and cut bait.

For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

Lake Anita
Bluegill - Slow: Drift or troll small jigs tipped with berkly or nightcrawlers in 6 to 8 feet of water. Black Crappie - Fair: Best bite is early morning around tree piles and along the two road beds in the lake. Largemouth Bass - Good: Anita has a good bass population. Find fish along vegetation edges and around tree piles. Channel Catfish - Fair: Catfish are being caught on top of the two roadbeds in the lake.

Lake Manawa
Zebra mussels were found in Lake Manawa; clean, drain and dry your boat when leaving the lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are close to shore. Fish are all sizes in the lake. White Crappie - Fair: A few large white crappies are being caught on the west shore. Walleye - Fair: A few anglers are having good success trolling crankbaits using planner boards. Don't overlook running a crawler through the dredge cuts. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Catch wipers where water is entering the lake.

Littlefield Lake
Littlefield has a good ring of aquatic vegetation. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills have moved around the cedar tree piles in the lake. Largemouth Bass - Good: There is a large number of 12 to 14-inch fish in the lake. Channel Catfish - Good: Cast cut or stinkbait along the dam to catch 2-4 pound channel catfish.

Meadow Lake
Water clarity is fair. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers report catching bluegills slow trolling and drifting. Fish average 8 inches. Largemouth Bass - No Report: There is a good population of largemouth bass up to 18 inches in the lake.

Prairie Rose Lake
Water temperature is 80 degrees. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers report good bluegill fishing in the mornings trolling or drifting small jigs. Black Crappie - Slow: There is a small population of large black crappies in the lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are being caught around the jetties and underwater reefs. Fish average 2 to 4 pounds. Largemouth Bass - Good: A large population of 12 to 14-inch bass offer fun catch and release fishing. 

Viking Lake
Viking Lake is six feet low. Black Crappie - Good: Slowly troll jigs over humps and drop-offs in the lake. Fish average 9 inches. Largemouth Bass - Good: Anglers are catching bass in tree piles using plastics. Channel Catfish - Fair: Cast stinkbait around tree piles to catch fish up to 6 pounds. 

For more information on lakes in the Southwest District call the Cold Springs office at 712-769-2587.

Green Valley Lake
Largemouth Bass - Slow: Use jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles to catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches. Black Crappie - Slow: Catch crappie up to 9 inches with jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles. Bluegill - Slow: Catch bluegill up to 7.5 inches with jigs tipped with live bait fished near the fishing jetties or cedar tree brush piles. 

Lake Icaria
Bluegill - Slow: Catch bluegill of all sizes with nightcrawlers fished under a bobber along the fish mounds. Channel Catfish - Good: Use nightcrawlers fished along rocky shoreline areas to catch channel catfish of all sizes.

Little River Watershed Lake
Bluegill - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished near cedar tree brush piles to catch bluegill up to 8.5 inches. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches with jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles or along weed lines. 

Three Mile Lake
Walleye - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished along the creek channels to catch walleyes up to 22 inches. Bluegill - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished near creek channels and the dirt mounds to catch bluegill of all sizes.

Twelve Mile Creek Lake
Black Crappie - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished along cedar tree brush piles or creek channels to catch crappie up to 11 inches. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches with jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles. Bluegill - Fair: Catch bluegill of all sizes with jigs tipped with live bait fished along the weed line or cedar tree brush piles.

Water temperature in most Mount Ayr district lakes is in the low to mid-80's. For more information, contact the Mount Ayr Fisheries office at 641-464-3108.

[Rick]

NORTHWEST IOWA FISHING REPORTS

Arrowhead Lake
Water clarity is good. Bluegill - Fair: Cast a small jig fished under a bobber near submerged structure along shore in 5-10 feet of water. Try small popping plugs on a fly rod on calm evenings. Cast plugs around downed trees along the shoreline. Try drifting down the middle of the lake with a 1/16 ounce leadhead to find suspended fish. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Cast traditional bass lures near submerged woody structure throughout the lake and along weed lines in the southern part of the lake. 

Black Hawk Lake
Surface water temperatures are in the mid-70's. Water level is a few inches below crest. Yellow Perch - Slow. Largemouth Bass – Fair: Cast traditional bass lures and plastics along shore and near docks. You can catch fish anywhere around the lake, but some of the best areas are Ice House point shoreline, inlet bay and bridge area near the outlet, and along Gunshot Hill. Walleye - Slow. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use natural baits like nightcrawlers, crawdads or shrimp fished around deeper rock piles. Try drifting at night to cover a lot of water. Target catfish around the inlet bridge, especially if there is some flow following a rain event. Bluegill – Fair: Fish the deeper rock piles near Gunshot Hill and in the east basin. Black Crappie - Fair: Anglers are picking up crappie around and inside the fish house. Many of the crappie are 8 to 9-inches, but a few bigger ones are mixed in. Use a small white jig or a small live minnow under a bobber. 

Browns Lake
Channel Catfish - Fair: Look for channel catfish along the outside bend of the lake in deeper water. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Look for largemouth bass along the edges of the lotus patches and the deadfalls along the outside bend of the lake.

Brushy Creek Lake
Brushy Creek is currently being drawn-down four feet for a construction project. Launch boats at the north ramp or the west ramp; docks have been adjusted at the west ramp to make them easier to use. Black Crappie - Fair: Use a small piece of crawler or minnow on a jig either drifting or fished under a bobber near submerged woody structure. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Throw traditional bass lures, plastics or weedless lures near submerged structure and along weed lines. Yellow Perch - Slow. Walleye – Slow. Bluegill - Fair.  Channel Catfish - Fair: Brushy Creek Lake has a low-density population of larger channel catfish. Target these larger fish near rocky areas and submerged woody structure using a variety of cut baits and crankbaits.

North Twin Lake
Surface water temperature is around 75 degrees. Water clarity is around 16 inches. Water levels are several inches below crest. Yellow Bass - Fair: Use a small jig tipped with a piece of crawler or waxworm fished under a small bobber. Yellow bass are 6-10 inches long. A lot of yellow bass are hanging out around the dead falls and woody structure in Muddy Bay and along the wooded shoreline just south of Muddy Bay. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are numerous in North Twin Lake. Use natural baits like nightcrawlers, crawdads, or shrimp fished near shore. If fishing from a boat, try drifting at night over deeper water. Bluegill - Slow: Try small jigs tipped with a crawler fished under a bobber along shore near vegetation edges. Walleye - Slow: Try trolling walleye in the middle of the basin using crankbaits or crawler harnesses. Recent surveys show a lot of big walleye along the wooded shoreline just south of Muddy Bay. 

Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Storm Lake has a daily limit of 3 walleye, and all 17- to 22-inch walleye must be released; no more than one walleye longer than 22 inches may be taken per day. Walleye - Fair: Drift with leeches or crawlers along the dredge cuts and troll crankbaits in the main lake. White Bass - Fair: Pick up white bass from shore and in the main like while trolling. Use twisters, crawlers or crankbaits in the marina, near the inlet and north and east shores in the main lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try a variety of dip baits, cut baits and crankbaits fished near shore and anywhere with rocky structure or rock piles. Bluegill - Slow: Find panfish around patches of vegetation. Yellow Perch - Slow: Look for panfish around patches of vegetation. Black Crappie - Slow: Find panfish around patches of vegetation.

Water temperatures are in the mid-70's in the Black Hawk District. River levels are low and most lake levels are below crest.For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

Beeds Lake
Bluegill – Fair: Use a small piece of crawler under a bobber near the shore. Black Crappie – Fair: Drift fish a minnow or small tube jig. Yellow Bass – Fair.

Clear Lake
The water temperature is in the mid-70's. Walleye - Fair: Anglers are catching walleyes jigging a crawler on the rock reefs. Best bite is early morning and late evening. Yellow Bass – Good: Yellows are biting on a variety of baits. Use your electronics to find and stay on fish. Channel Catfish - Good: Try cut bait or crawlers fished on the bottom from the windswept shore. Evening bite is best. White Bass - Slow: 

Crystal Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Drift fish a minnow or small jig near the dredge cut. Largemouth Bass - Fair.

Lower Pine Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Best bite is in the evening. Bluegill - Good: Lots of 3 to 6-inch fish.

Upper Pine Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Best bite is in the evening. Bluegill - Good: lots of 3 to 6-inch fish.

For information on the lakes and rivers in north central Iowa, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517. 

East Okoboji Lake
The walleye season is open. The water temperature is 76 degrees. Bluegill – Good: Find schools in deeper water. Black Crappie – Fair. Yellow Perch – Good. Yellow Bass – Good.

Lake Pahoja
Bluegill - Good: Use small jigs tipped with waxworms. Black Crappie - Good: Try small jigs tipped with waxworms. Largemouth Bass - Good: Use rubber worms or other slow-moving jigs.

Lost Island Lake
Yellow Perch – Fair. Walleye – Fair.

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
Walleye – Good.

Spirit Lake
The walleye season is open. A great walleye bite was seen in June, but has slowed due to warm water conditions. A great yellow perch bite has slowed down, with many yellows over 10 inches caught. Bites should pick up again as temperatures drop. The water temperature is 75 degrees. Bluegill - Good: Schools are starting to move deeper off shore post-spawn. Walleye - Fair: A fairly good bite lately can also be seen from shore. Try bottom bouncers or crankbaits to cover more water. Black Bullhead - Fair: Anglers have been successful at the north grade. Yellow Perch - Fair: The bite has really picked up; fish are a little deeper than what can be easily fished from shore. Try small humps in the main basin or weed edges. 

West Okoboji Lake
The walleye season is open. The water temperature is 76 degrees. The panfish bite has been great.The ability to anchor or use Spot Lock is very useful to stay on fish in about 20-30 feet of water. Bluegill - Excellent: Schools are deeper off shore. Try fishing in 20-30 feet of water off most points. Anglers have had success using pilkies. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Find smallmouth bass on rock piles or on the points. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Find largemouth bass on the weed lines. Yellow Perch - Fair: Schools have started to move deeper off shore. Yellow Bass - Excellent: Easily find yellow bass while fishing for bluegill.

Iowa Great Lake water temperatures have cooled down a bit and are around 75 degrees. This week’s extended forecast calls for temperatures ranging from the upper 80's to lower 90's. The area walleye bite has slowed considerably due to very warm water conditions. The panfish bite has been excellent in deeper water, especially on West Okoboji. The overall bite should pick up as temperatures go down. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST IOWA FISHING REPORTS

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Repairs to the Nashua dam continue as water levels and flows drop. Water levels are falling with good water clarity. Use caution; underwater hazards may have moved. Go to the USGS Current Conditions website for more information on water levels. Channel Catfish - Good: Use dead chubs, stinkbaits and worms fished near bottom near dusk in woody debris or stumps. Walleye - Good: Fish are active in the evening. Try near current breaks and in log jams. Be prepared to run your lure near bottom of pools. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Use a jig tipped with natural colored twister tails or ringworm in current breaks or rock ledges and gravel bars. Black Crappie - Fair: Try minnows fished under a bobber near downed trees and slow water or pool areas.

Decorah District Streams
All trout stream stockings are unannounced due to COVID-19 precautions. A small number of trout streams are not stocked in August due to marginal water temperatures; this is an annual occurrence. To check which ones, please visit our trout fishing website. Rainbow Trout - Excellent: Hoppers, beetles and anything that looks buggy will work this time of year. Try along grassed edges, undercut banks and around boulders. Use hair jigs or spinners for aggressive fish. Brown Trout - Excellent: There have been excellent evening mayfly hatches. A keen eye and a fly box filled with a variety of sizes and colors will help match a hatch. Brook Trout - Good: Please respect private property open to angling; pick up trash and be considerate. Use a variety of small terrestrial flies such as crickets, grasshoppers and ants.

Lake Hendricks
Water clarity remains fair and very green. Water temperatures in the mid to upper 70's. Bluegill - Fair: Shore anglers will find fish around the jetties or along the weed lines. Use a small piece of worm under a bobber. Channel Catfish - Good: Try a worm or stinkbait fished near the bottom around woody structure in the evening. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use topwater lures fished along weed edges. 

Lake Meyer
Water clarity is good. Early morning and evening bite is best. An excellent lake to use a paddle board or kayak to fish the nooks and crannies. Bluegill - Fair: Good: Use a small hook tipped with a small piece of worm under a bobber from shore. Fly anglers should try a small cricket with a jerky movement on the waters surface along a weed edge. Largemouth Bass - Good: Use a topwater lure in the evening when fish are actively feeding. Also try a jig tipped with a plastic worm. Channel Catfish - Good: Try stinkbait or worms fished on the bottom around woody structure near dusk.

Turkey River (below Clermont)
Water levels are getting down to summer lows. Walleye - Good: Use a jig tipped with natural colored plastics or crankbait in deeper holes and log jams. Fish deeper for walleye holding near the bottom. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Try a variety of brightly colored lures in eddies or along rocky ledges.

Upper Iowa River (above Decorah)
Water levels are falling with excellent clarity. Sand and gravel bars are appearing. You might have to walk in a few places. Walleye - Good.

Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)
Water levels are falling with excellent clarity. Sand and gravel bars are appearing; take advantage of these spots to fish the eddies or deeper areas. Walleye - Good. Smallmouth Bass - Fair.

Volga Lake
A green algae bloom is causing poor water clarity. Blooms should clear as water cools. Bluegill - Fair: Use a small hook tipped with a piece of worm. Wait for the bobber to go under the water, then give the line a quick jerk to set the hook. Keep the rod tip up to put tension on the line while reeling in the fish. Largemouth Bass - Good: Slowly troll a lure over fish attracting structure and get ready to set the hook. Try crankbaits or a jig with a twister tail. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Use worms or stinkbait fished near dusk. Find a good stump or woody structure to toss bait and wait; patience is key for this fish.

Water levels on area rivers are low. Clarity is good on most. Thunderstorms are possible Friday into Saturday morning. Temperatures are in the 70's. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.

 

Big Woods Lake
A few reports of anglers catching crappie in Big Woods Lake. Black Crappie - Fair: Try vertical jigging or casting colored tube jigs around structure or drifting a minnow under a slip bobber.

Casey Lake (aka Hickory Hills Lake)
Largemouth Bass - Good: Try crankbaits and topwater artificial baits. Bluegill - Good: Cast a piece of nightcrawler under a bobber. Channel Catfish - Good: Try stinkbaits or leopard frogs fished on the bottom of the lake.

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
Reports for walleye has been good in Bremer County. Channel Catfish - Good: Try stinkbaits or fresh chicken livers fished above fallen tree snags. Walleye - Good: Cast crankbaits or a jig tipped with a nightcrawler.

Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)
Walleye - No Report: Cast crankbaits or a jig tipped with a nightcrawler. Smallmouth Bass - No Report: Cast crankbaits or a jig tipped with a nightcrawler.

Wapsipinicon River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)
Reports of channel catfish being caught on the Wapsipinicon River. Channel Catfish - Good: Try stinkbaits or fresh chicken livers fished above fallen tree snags.

Interior rivers continue to drop and are providing excellent angling opportunities. Lakes in and around Cedar Falls/Waterloo area have been good for largemouth bass. Trout streams are in excellent condition. All fish hatcheries remain closed. Call the Manchester Hatchery at 563-927-3276 for more information.

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER FISHING REPORTS - NORTH

Mississippi River Pool 9
Pool level is 8.8 feet at Lansing and remains stable. Water temperature is 77 degrees. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are feeding on the wing dams; drift crawlers or crankbaits. Largemouth Bass - Good: Largemouth are hanging out along weed beds and along channel borders. Smallmouth Bass - Excellent: Try crankbaits fished on rock tips of islands in the main channel. Flathead Catfish - Good: Smaller flatheads are biting on worms fished in the deeper tailwaters of dams. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Try prepared stinkbait and worms fished in current along rock shorelines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Drum are biting on worms sunk to the bottom in areas of current.

Mississippi River Pool 10
Pool 10 at Lynxville is stable near 616 feet. Water clarity is good. Water temperature is near 79 degrees. Walleye - Good: Walleye are feeding on the wing dams; drift crawlers or crankbaits. Largemouth Bass - Good: Largemouth are hanging out along weed beds and along channel borders.  Flathead Catfish - Good: Smaller flatheads are biting on worms fished in the deeper tailwaters of dams. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Try prepared stinkbait and worms fished in current along rock shorelines. Smallmouth Buffalo - Excellent: Use crankbaits fished on rock tips of islands in the main channel. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Drum are biting on worms sunk to the bottom in areas of current.

Mississippi River Pool 11
Pool 11 is 7.5 feet and is predicted to remain stable. Water temperature is in the mid-70's. Water clarity is good. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are feeding on the wing dams; drift crawlers or crankbaits. Largemouth Bass - Good: Largemouth are hanging out along weed beds and along channel borders. Smallmouth Bass - Excellent: Try crankbaits fished on rock tips of islands in the main channel. Flathead Catfish - Good: Smaller flatheads are biting on worms fished in the deeper tailwaters of dams. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Try prepared stinkbait and worms fished in current along rock shorelines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Drum are biting on worms sunk to the bottom in areas of current.

Upper Mississippi River levels remain stable. Water clarity is good. Walleye slot length limits now apply on the entire Mississippi River. All walleyes less than 15 inches long and between 20-27 inches long must be released immediately. Only one walleye greater than 27 inches can be kept. Combined walleye/sauger daily harvest limit of 6 and possession of 12.

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
Water levels are expected to remain steady this week. The water level is 6.9 feet at the Lock and Dam and 9.2 feet at the RR bridge. The water temperature is around 79 degrees. The water clarity is excellent. Northern Pike - Good: Flashy spinners in eddy areas or along weed lines will take this toothy predator. Bluegill - Fair: A few bluegills reported in shallow backwater areas near brush piles. Expect them to move along the channel edges in low water. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Lots of channel catfish are being caught on prepared stink baits. Try floating worms along rock lines.  Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on an egg sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Largemouth Bass - Excellent: Bass are being taken off lily pad areas on spinnerbaits or frog imitation lures. Smallmouth Bass - Excellent: Find smallmouth bass along rock piles with strong current; use flashy spoons or crankbaits. Walleye – Fair: Floating grass is hampering walleye fishing; wing dam fishing could be good in the next few weeks if the water remains low. White Bass - Fair: Some white bass are being caught in the Dubuque tailwater on white jigs. Look for feeding schools elsewhere. Black Crappie - Good: Crappie are being taken out of brush piles and marina areas on small jigs and minnows. Flathead Catfish - Excellent: Smaller flatheads are being taken on worms in deeper holes and in the tailwater.

Mississippi River Pool 13
The water level is 7.3 feet at the Bellevue Lock and Dam. The water temperature is 79 degrees. The water clarity is good. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Catfish are along rock lines and brush piles in moderate current. Most anglers are using prepared stinkbaits. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Northern Pike - Good: Try flashy spinners fished along old weed edges and rock shorelines. Largemouth Bass - Excellent: Bass are being taken off lily pad areas on spinnerbaits or frog imitation lures. Some are also being caught off the rocks in the tailwater. Bluegill - Fair: Try fishing around brush piles in larger sloughs with reduced current. Flathead Catfish - Excellent: Use live fish for bait. Lots of trot lines are being set; make sure you follow trot lines rules, especially having a tag with your name and address attached to the lines. Smaller flatheads are being taken in deep holes or in the tailwater on worms. White Bass - Fair: White bass are being reported in the tailwater; use flashy small spinners. Walleye - Slow: Walleye fishing remains slow, but many feel it should pick up soon with this low water.

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is 6.7 feet at the Fulton Lock and Dam, 10.5 feet at Camanche and 5.5 feet at LeClaire. Water temperature is 79 degrees. Water clarity is good. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Anglers are using prepared stinkbaits along rock lines. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a worm sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass are being taken off lily pad areas on spinnerbaits or frog imitation lures. Some are being taken off of exposed rock piles. Northern Pike - Good: Use flashy spinners along backwater shorelines or in the tailwaters for this aggressive fish. Flathead Catfish - Excellent: Try live fish for bait. Lots of trot lines are being set; make sure you follow trot lines rules, especially having a tag with your name and address attached to the lines. Bluegill - Fair: Find bluegills near the mouths of large backwater areas, usually around brush piles. As water levels get low look for bluegills along the channel edges. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try spinners or crankbaits along rip-rap areas. White Bass - No Report: Expect white bass to be hitting in the tailwaters and elsewhere. Look for feeding schools of fish; use flashy small spinners. Walleye - Fair: Floating grass is hampering walleye fishing; wing dam fishing could be good in the next few weeks if the water remains low.

Mississippi River Pool 15
Water level is around 7 feet at Rock Island and is receding. The water temperature is 79 degrees; water clarity is good. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Freshwater drum are easy to catch on a worm sinker and worm rig. Fish in moderate current. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Channel cats are readily biting on cut bait and prepared baits. Flathead Catfish - Excellent: Try live bait around brush piles or in the tailwater area. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Fish the rocky habitats along the channel edge. 

Water level is expected to hold somewhat steady. Water temperature is near 79 degrees. If you have any fishing questions, please contact the Bellevue Fisheries Station 563-880-8781.

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER FISHING REPORTS - SOUTH

Mississippi River Pool 16
Tailwater stage is 6.95 feet at Lock and Dam 15 in the Quad Cities and has been fairly steady the past few days. Channel Catfish - Good: Use chicken livers or dip baits around brush piles and snags along the main channel and side channels. White Crappie - No Report: Look for crappies in the backwaters. Try jigs and plastics or minnows fished in Sunset Marina or Andalusia Island Complex. Bluegill - No Report: Try pieces of worm under a bobber in Sunset Marina or Andalusia Island Complex. Walleye - Fair: Look for walleyes on the wing dams. Try trolling crankbaits or three-way rigs with pieces of crawler. 

Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage is 5.54 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine and has been fairly steady. Channel Catfish - No Report: Use chicken livers or dip baits around brush piles and snags in the main channel and side channels. White Bass -No Report: Look for white bass by the dam or by GPC. Cast jigs and twister tails or crankbaits. Also look for white bass on the wing dams. Bluegill - No Report: Look for bluegills in the backwaters. Try pieces of worm under a bobber fished around brush piles in Big Timber or Cleveland Slough. Walleye - Fair: Look for walleyes on the wing dams. Try trolling crankbaits or pulling three-way rigs with crawlers.

Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage is 6.39 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston and has been fairly steady. Channel Catfish - Good: Use or chicken livers or dip baits around brush piles and snags in the main channel and side channels. Walleye - No Report: Look for walleyes on the wing dams; use crankbaits or three-way rigs with crawlers. White Crappie - No Report: Look for crappies in the backwaters around brush piles; try minnows under a bobber or jigs and plastics. White Bass - No Report: Look for white bass at the outlet of Odessa up by the dam or on the wing dams. Cast jigs and twister tails or crankbaits.

Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage is 3.37 feet at Lock and Dam 18 has been been fairly steady. River stage is 9.24 feet at Burlington. River stage is 525.6 feet at Ft. Madison. We have not received any fishing report information for this pool this week. Channel Catfish - No Report: Look for channel catfish around brush piles and snags along the main channel and side channels. Use dip baits, shad or nightcrawlers. White Crappie - No Report: Look for crappies in the backwaters. Try minnows under a bobber or jigs and plastics fished around brush piles. Walleye - No Report: Look for walleyes on the wing dams. Use crankbaits or three-way rigs with crawlers. 

Tailwater stages have been fairly steady the past few days. Main channel water temperature is around 78 degrees. Water clarity is fair. If you have questions on fishing Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.

SOUTHEAST IOWA FISHING REPORTS

Big Hollow Lake
Water temperature was 84 degrees at noon on Wednesday (8/19). Water clarity is improving. Duckweed has taken over in parts of the lake, especially in the boat ramp bay. Bluegill - Slow: The bluegill bite has slowed with the return of warm stagnant weather. Work the brush piles in 6 to 7 feet of water. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Work out in a little deeper water in the flooded timber in the bays. Channel Catfish - Fair: The face of the dam is always good. Also try in the main two bays at the very upper end of the lake around the brush piles and downed trees.

Iowa River (Columbus Junction to Mississippi River
The Iowa River continued to slowly drop this weekend, down another 3-4 inches. Channel Catfish - Fair: They are going to start piling into deeper holes with brush piles for cover.

Lake Belva Deer
Water temperature is in the low 80's most afternoons. Water clarity continues to improve, just not very fast. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try early morning in the flooded timber and around and over top of the mounds at the upper end. Bluegill - Fair: The bite has slowed. Work the mounds at the upper end of the lake. Also expect to pick up a few when drifting for crappies at the lower end. Black Crappie - Slow: Crappie fishing has slowed down again. Try slow trolling at at the usual spots down at the lower end of the lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Catfishing remains decent. Try chicken liver or stinkbaits fished along the face of the dam and around the rocks on the jetties.

Lake Darling
Water temperature Thursday (8/20) morning was 78 degrees. Most afternoons the water temperature is in the low 80's. Water is still turbid and green. Largemouth Bass - Fair: While the nights are getting cooler, the daytime temperatures are still warm. Most bass anglers are fishing the rock and brush piles in deeper water in the morning. Bluegill - Slow: Work rock piles in 6-8 feet of water. Drift from rock pile to rock pile using a small jig tipped with live bait like a waxworm or small fish worm. Channel Catfish - Fair: Catfish like warm water. Evening bite is good. Use chicken liver; work the culvert piles at the base of the rip-rap around the point and back around to the jetty by the beach.

Lost Grove Lake
Water temperature is around 80 degrees; expect it to get into the low to mid-80's in the next few days. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Morning bite is best. Some are being taken on topwater baits. After it starts to warm up, bass will move deeper and settle down for the day. Bluegill - Fair: Work small jigs tipped with a trailer or live bait in 12 -16 feet of water. The hotter temperatures will keep them deeper for a while. Black Crappie - Slow: Crappies are in deep hiding mode. A few are getting caught when bluegill fishing in the deeper water.

Skunk River (Rose Hill to Coppock)
The Skunk River water level has held steady this week. Water levels are low enough that anything bigger than a canoe will have problems getting around. Channel Catfish - Fair: Work the bigger brush piles near the deeper holes. More than a few grass frogs are still around to use for bait.

For more information on the above lakes, call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

 

Coralville Reservoir
The lake level is at normal summer pool of 683.5 feet. The ramp in Macbride State Park is closed due to storm clean-up. Some of the Corps ramps may also be closed. Sandy Beach and Mehaffey Ramps are open. Channel Catfish - Fair: Troll cut bait in the channel or up on shallow flats depending on the fish activity.

Green Castle Lake
The park is closed until further notice due to storm damage.

Iowa Lake (Iowa Co.)
Bluegill - Slow: Look for fish around deeper brush piles. Black Crappie - Slow: Try around deeper brush piles or suspended over 14-20 feet of water. Channel Catfish - Fair: Typical baits have been working.

Iowa River (Marshalltown to Coralville Lake)
River accesses in Marshall County are closed until further notice. Other counties may be the same.

Lake Macbride
The main park entrance is closed due to storm damage and clean-up efforts. The park ramps are closed. The other ramps on the lake are open. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Slow: Troll crankbaits during the day and throw topwaters or plastics at sunrise/sunset for surface feeders. Walleye - Slow: Troll crankbaits or worm harnesses in 7-13 feet of water. Largemouth Bass - Slow. Channel Catfish - Slow. 

Otter Creek Lake
The park and lake are closed until further notice due to storm damage.

Pleasant Creek Lake
The park is closed due to storm damage.

Sand Lake
Sand Lake in Marshalltown is currently closed, but the county was hoping to have it opened by the weekend.

Union Grove Lake
The lake is open, but the trails are unsafe due to debris. No fishing report is available, other than an algae bloom is occurring now.

Additional parks/lakes may be still closed due to storm damage. For more information, contact the Lake Macbride Fisheries Station at 319-624-3615.

 

Hawthorn Lake
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use spinnerbaits or crankbaits along rock piles and rip-rapped shores. Try topwater lures early and late in the day. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try liver or stinkbait in 4-8 feet of water.

Lake Miami
Bluegill - Fair: Drift small jigs for suspended bluegills in the middle of the lake.Try small jigs tipped with a chunk of nightcrawler around the fishing jetties. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use topwater lures early and late in the day. Try crankbaits around the cedar trees and along the rip-rapped shorelines. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use nightcrawlers or liver in 4-8 feet of water. 

Lake Sugema
Black Crappie - Slow: Drift jigs tipped with a minnow in 6-10 feet of water for suspended crappies. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use topwater lures along the shorelines; fish deeper with crankbaits or rubber worms.

Lake Wapello
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try topwater lures early and late in the day; target cedar tree piles. As the day warms up, try plastics fished deeper around tree piles. Bluegill - Slow: Drift nightcrawlers on small jigs for suspended bluegills. Target areas in 6-8 feet of water. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use nightcrawlers or stinkbait. Don’t fish too deep; lakes will stratify this time of year. Black Crappie - Slow: Drift jigs tipped with minnows for suspended crappie. 

Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 904.01 msl. Normal operating elevation is 904.0 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels, so make sure to properly drain, clean, and dry equipment before transporting to another waterbody. Use caution while boating: the lake has not been at conservation pool for some time. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) – Fair: Look for flocks of seagulls to find shad; hybrids should be below the school of shad. Troll crankbaits that mimic gizzard shad through this area. Walleye - Fair: Troll gizzard shad imitating crankbaits around rock piles, submerged points and areas with depth changes. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try nightcrawlers or chicken liver in 6-8 feet of water.

Red Haw Lake
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try topwater lures early and late in the day. Use spinnerbaits and crankbaits during the hotter parts of the day. Target submerged structure and rocky shorelines. Bluegill - Slow: Try drifting with nightcrawlers on small jigs in the main part of the lake. Channel Catfish - Slow: Use chicken liver or stinkbait in 4-8 feet of water.

The district includes Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, Wapello, Wayne and Van Buren counties. Contact the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with questions about fishing in south central Iowa.

 

SOUTHWEST IOWA FISHING REPORTS

Big Creek Lake
Walleye - Slow: Troll live bait rigs or crankbaits at depths of 15 feet or less in the upper half of the lake. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Slow: Cast or troll shad imitating spoons, crankbaits or plastics. Look for schools of young shad breaking the surface of the water to find feeding wipers.

Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock)
Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish and flathead catfish are being caught. Try live bait, stinkbait and crawlers.

Don Williams Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Drift or troll panfish jigs in the middle half of the lake. Start just out from the docks in the boat ramp area. Crappies are 8.5 to 10 inches. 

Red Rock Reservoir
White Bass - Fair: Troll or cast shad imitating spoons and shallow diving crankbaits. Look for schools of small shad busting on the surface to find feeding fish.

Roberts Creek Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Drift or troll jigs with twister or paddle tails in the lower half of the lake.

Rock Creek Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: The crappie bite has been slow to fair. Drift or troll jigs tipped with minnows. Crappies larger than 9 inches are uncommon. Channel Catfish - Fair: Catch catfish from shore with stinkbaits and cut bait.

Saylorville Reservoir
Channel Catfish - Good: Drift or slowly troll cut bait in the upper end of the reservoir. White Bass - Fair: Troll or cast shad imitating spoons and crankbaits. Start from the Sandpiper boat ramp to the marina cove and along the Oak Grove Beach area.

For more information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers, call Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.

Lake Anita
Bluegill - Fair: Drift or troll small jigs tipped with berkly or nightcrawlers in 6 to 8 feet of water. Black Crappie - Fair: Best bite is early morning around tree piles and along the two road beds in the lake. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Anita has a good bass population. Find fish along vegetation edges and around tree piles. Channel Catfish - Slow: Catfish are being caught on top of the two roadbeds in the lake.

Lake Manawa
Zebra mussels were found in Lake Manawa; clean, drain and dry your boat when leaving the lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are close to shore. Fish are all sizes in the lake. White Crappie - Fair: A few large white crappies are being caught on the west shore. Walleye - Fair: A few anglers are having good success trolling crankbaits using planner boards. Don't overlook running a crawler through the dredge cuts. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Catch wipers where water is entering the lake.

Littlefield Lake
Littlefield Lake has a good ring of aquatic vegetation. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills have moved around the cedar tree piles in the lake. Largemouth Bass - Good: There is a large number of 12 to 14-inch fish in the lake. Channel Catfish - Good: Cast cut or stinkbait along the dam to catch 2-4 pound channel catfish.

Meadow Lake
Water clarity is fair. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers report catching bluegills slow trolling and drifting. Fish average 8 inches. Largemouth Bass - No Report: There is a good population of largemouth bass up to 18 inches in the lake.

Prairie Rose Lake
Water temperature is 80 degrees. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers report good bluegill fishing in the mornings trolling or drifting small jigs. Black Crappie - Slow: There is a small population of large black crappies in the lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are being caught around the jetties and underwater reefs. Fish average 2 to 4 pounds. Largemouth Bass - Good: A large population of 12 to 14-inch bass offer fun catch and release fishing. 

Viking Lake
Viking Lake is eight feet low. Black Crappie - Fair: Slowly troll jigs over humps and drop-offs in the lake. Fish average 9 inches. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Anglers are catching bass in tree piles using plastics. Channel Catfish - Fair: Cast stinkbait around tree piles to catch fish up to 6 pounds. 

For more information on lakes in the Southwest District call the Cold Springs office at 712-769-2587.

Green Valley Lake
Largemouth Bass - Slow: Use jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles to catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches. 

Lake Icaria
Channel Catfish - Good: Use nightcrawlers or chicken liver fished along rocky shoreline areas to catch channel catfish of all sizes.

Little River Watershed Lake
Bluegill - Slow: Use jigs tipped with a nightcrawler fished near cedar tree brush piles to catch bluegill up to 8.5 inches. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches with jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles. 

Three Mile Lake
Walleye - Slow: Use jigs tipped with live bait fished along the creek channels or main lake points to catch walleyes up to 22 inches. Bluegill - Slow: Use jigs tipped with a nightcrawler fished weed lines to catch bluegill of all sizes.

Twelve Mile Creek Lake
Largemouth Bass - Slow: Catch largemouth bass up to 20 inches with jigs fished near cedar tree brush piles. Bluegill - Fair: Drift with small jigs to catch bluegill of all sizes.

Water temperature in most Mount Ayr district lakes is in the upper 70's to low 80's. For more information, contact the Mount Ayr Fisheries office at 641-464-3108.

[Rick]

NORTHWEST

Arrowhead Lake
Lake level is low. Water temperature is in the mid-60s. Black Crappie - Fair: Find crappie along shore near woody structure; use small jigs and minnows.

Black Hawk Lake
The dredge is working in the east basin of the lake. The floating and submerged portions of pipe is marked with buoys. Dredge barges are marked with buoys; boaters should use caution and stay away from the equipment and pipe. Water levels are about 12 inches below the crest of the spillway. Surface water temperature is around 70 degrees. Water clarity is about 10 inches. Black Crappie - Fair: Most fish are 8- to 12-inches. Use small live minnows and marabou jigs fished from shore in Town Bay. Areas along the stone pier floating T dock, the fish house and along Ice House Point are the most popular spots. Walleye - Slow: As water temperatures warm and fish move into shore and start feeding more aggressively, use twisters, jigs tipped with medium-sized minnows or shallow diving crankbaits from shore.

Brushy Creek Lake
Water temperatures are warming; expect panfish action to pick up. Black Crappie - Fair: Crappie fishing can be productive with the warming water. Use a small live minnow fished on a jig in 5-10 feet of water near rocks and submerged trees. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use plastics and traditional bass lures along submerged woody structure near shore. Yellow Perch - Fair: Try a small minnow on a jig near woody structure in 5-10 feet of water along shore.

North Twin Lake
With low water levels, boaters should use caution when launching boats. Black Crappie - Fair: Use small jigs and minnows from shore and along the docks.

Storm Lake (incl Little Storm Lake)
Surface water temperatures are in the mid to upper 60s. All walleye between 19 and 25-inches must be immediately released unharmed at Storm Lake; no more than one walleye longer than 25-inches can be taken per day. Black Crappie - Fair: Use small live minnows and small jigs along shore docks, lifts and anywhere with rocky structure. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try cut bait or liver fished on the bottom along shore. Walleye - Fair: Walleye should start feeding more aggressively with warming water temperatures.  Try fishing from shore with a lead head with a twister tail.  Also try a jig with a crawler or tipped with a minnow.  Shallow diving crankbaits can also work well from shore. Evenings may be most productive.

Surface water temperatures are around 70 degrees in most areas lakes. For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.
 

Clear Lake
The lake is 4.4 inches above crest. Water temperatures are in the mid-60s. The fish cleaning station is open for the season. Clear Lake has a protected slot on walleye. All walleye between 17 and 22 inches must be immediately released unharmed. No more than one walleye longer than 22 inches may be taken per day. Black Crappie - Good: Use a minnow on the outside edge of the rushes. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try cut bait or crawlers on the wind-swept shore and spots where water is flowing into the lake. Walleye - Good: Walleyes are biting. Try trolling crankbaits or slip bobber fish a leech or minnow on the rock reefs and wind-swept points. White Bass - Fair. Yellow Bass - Slow: The yellow bass bite will pick up as the water temperature continues to warm.  

Lake Cornelia
Channel Catfish - Fair: Fish the wind-swept shore with cut bait or crawlers. Yellow Bass – Slow.

Rice Lake
Water temperatures are in the mid-60s. Largemouth Bass – Fair. 

Silver Lake (Worth)
Largemouth Bass – Fair. 

Winnebago River
River levels continue to drop. Walleye – Slow: Try a jig and minnow in the current breaks below a dam.

For information on the lakes and rivers in north central Iowa, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517.

 

East Okoboji Lake
Lake temperature is in the mid-60s. The water level is 3 inches over crest. The walleye season is open. There has been a fairly good crappie bite recently. Anglers using electronics have been fairly successful finding schools of fish. Black Crappie - Good. Bluegill - Fair. Yellow Bass - Fair.

Minnewashta Lake
Black Crappie - Good. 

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
Walleye - Fair.

Spirit Lake
Water temperature is in the high 50s to lower 60s. The lake is 18 inches below crest, making launching boats more difficult. Courtesy docks are in place. The walleye season is open. Black Crappie - Fair: Use a tube jig and bobber. Bluegill - Fair.  Yellow Perch - Fair.

West Okoboji Lake
Water temperature is in the upper 50s. The water level is 3 inches over crest. The walleye season is open. Black Crappie - Fair. Bluegill - Fair.

Courtesy docks are in place. Area water temperatures have been rising quickly due to very warm weather. Most lakes are in the 60s and at crest or higher levels. Water clarity has been fairly good on most area lakes.

For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.

 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Water levels are slowly stabilizing after recent showers. Fish eddies and current breaks. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try a hook loaded with a crawler or chub. Northern Pike - Fair: Find pike in shallow vegetated areas out of current. Smallmouth Bass - Slow: Find smallies below the dams; use a hook tipped with a ringworm, twister tail or nightcrawler.  Walleye - Fair: Try worms or minnows under a slip bobber with enough weight to get your bait near the bottom. 

Decorah District Streams
Fourth season turkey hunting is open until May 14. Avoid wearing red, white, or blue colors to prevent misidentification by hunters. The 2022 Trout Stream Stocking calendar is available on our Trout Fishing webpage. Clarity is good on most streams. Brook Trout - Good: Numerous insect hatches on sunny afternoons. Use midge, caddis, mayfly or scud patterns for hungry brookies. Brown Trout - Excellent: Rain water flowing into streams is bringing a fresh supply of food for curious brownies.  Try spinnerbaits or crankbaits near or around structure. Midge and gnat hatches remain strong. Rainbow Trout - Excellent: Freshly stocked rainbow trout are waiting for anglers. Use small spinnerbaits, hair jigs or hooks tipped with a worm or minnow floating past structure or around large rocks.

Lake Hendricks
Water is stained brown. Water temperature is in the 40s. Bluegill - Slow: Bluegills are building nests in shallow water to prepare for spawning. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use a worm on a hook just off the bottom near stumps. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Find fish in deeper water near shore with crankbaits or jig tipped with a brightly colored plastic tail.

Lake Meyer
Boat dock is in. Anglers are finding hit-and-miss action as water warms. Bluegill - Slow: Water temperatures are still cool. Find a cove out of the wind. Use an ice fishing jig tipped with a small piece of worm. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try a chunk of worm or squished minnow fished off the bottom near stumps or other woody debris. Largemouth Bass - Fair: With cooler temperatures, cast your line out with a slow retrieve. Fish drop-offs with crankbaits or a jig with plastic tail.

North Bear Creek
Bridge replacement work is starting on the Sacquitne Bridge on 360th St. Stream access and parking lot remain open; be courteous to workers. Rainbow Trout - Excellent: Stocked weekly from April through October.

Turkey River (below Clermont)
Water levels are slowly falling after this week's showers. Water clarity is fair. Water temperatures is in the 40s. White Sucker - Good: Use a piece of worm on a hook fished on the stream bottom.

Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)
Water levels are rising slowly with poor clarity after this week's rain. Water temperatures are in the low 60s. Smallmouth Bass - Slow: Find deeper holes and eddies. Try fishing near the bottom. Walleye - Fair: Anglers are catching 10-inch walleye with a jig tipped with a natural colored twister tail in the edges of eddies. White Sucker - Good: Sucker fishing is heating up with warmer temperatures. Find fish off the bottom using a jig tipped with a worm. 

Volga Lake
Water temperatures are warming slowly. Docks are in. The main park road will be closed weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to install a culvert. Access to park from Heron Rd. See park bulletin for more information. Black Crappie - Fair: Use small jigs tipped with plastic tails or minnows off jetties. Bluegill - Fair:  Anglers finding gills off the jetties. Try a small piece of worm under a bobber. Channel Catfish - Fair: Trophy-sized catfish are abundant in this lake. Use dead chub or squished minnow fished off the bottom near woody debris. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use crankbaits and a slow retrieve in drop-offs and around brush piles and other attracting structures. 

Summer came early to NE Iowa. Chance of thunderstorms through the weekend with temperatures ranging from 50's to 80's. Most river and stream water levels rose between 1/2 to a foot with recent rain. Most are relatively clear. For current fishing information, please call the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.
 

 

Big Woods Lake
Anglers are catching crappie with the spawn now underway. Black Crappie - Fair: The lake is up, but concentrate your efforts in the shallows near structure; use a crappie minnow under a slip bobber or cast colored tube jigs.

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
No reports on the Cedar River with recent river levels. Black Crappie - Fair: Cast and retrieve small crappie jigs in tailwater areas below dams. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Cast spinnerbaits or crankbaits near rocky shoreline areas. Walleye - Fair: Cast a jig and plastic tipped with a half crawler or crankbaits.

Manchester District Streams
Manchester District trout streams are in excellent condition. Next week's weather forecast should produce intense hatches for topwater fly fishing action. Brown Trout - Good: Use small jigs or spinnerbaits. Try fly fishing topwater with the upcoming warm weather. Rainbow Trout - Good: Try small jigs or spinnerbaits.

Maquoketa River (above Monticello)
A few reports of smallmouth bass being caught on the Maquoketa River. Water levels are higher than normal. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Cast spinnerbaits or crankbaits near rocky shoreline areas. Walleye - Fair: Cast a jig and plastic tipped with a half crawler or crankbaits.

North Prairie Lake
Anglers are still catching rainbow trout. Rainbow Trout - Fair: Cast spinnerbaits or panther martins.

Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)
No reports on the Shell Rock River. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Cast spinnerbaits or crankbaits near rocky shoreline areas. Walleye - Fair: Cast a jig and plastic tipped with a half crawler or crankbaits.

Wapsipinicon River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)
No reports on the Wapsipinicon River. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Cast spinnerbaits or crankbaits near rocky shoreline areas. Walleye - Fair: Cast a jig and plastic tipped with a half crawler or crankbaits.

Interior rivers remain above normal summer flows. Fishing has been hit-and-miss on most species. Area lakes are producing some crappie. Crappie are now spawning in the shallows of most lakes. Manchester District area trout streams are in excellent condition. Contact your local area bait shops for the most recent hot spots. For more information, contact the Manchester Hatchery at 563-927-3276. 

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9
Water level is 10.9 feet at Lansing and is stable. Water is stained; some debris is coming downriver. Water temperature is 620degrees. Army road is closed due to high water. Black Crappie - Good: Anglers are catching crappies in the flooded timber on crappie rigs with minnows. Bluegill - Good: Use light tackle tipped with piece of worm in areas away from current along the weed edges in backwaters. Channel Catfish - Good: Expect the catfish bite to pick up with a warm-up in temperatures this week. Try cut bait or crawlers fished along current breaks of side channels. Flathead Catfish - Good: The flathead bite is picking up with the warmer temperatures. Try a shiner or small bluegill for bait. Freshwater Drum - Fair: Freshwater drum bite is coming on. Use a weighted crawler rig in the current anywhere from shore. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast jigs or jerk baits in woody cover in the shallows of backwaters. Northern Pike - Good: The bite has improved post-spawn. Cast crankbaits off vegetation lines. Sauger - Fair: Use hair jigs with minnows in slacker current near tailwater areas. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Smallmouth are getting more active along main channel rock structure. Cast inline spinners or crankbaits along the faster current. Walleye - Fair: Try hair jigs or drifting a crawler on three-way rigs in current breaks and structure near shoreline of the tailwaters or side channel structure. Yellow Perch - Fair: Perch bite has slowed this week. Try jigging minnows or a piece of crawler; avoid the heavy current.

Mississippi River Pool 10
Water level at Lynxville fell to 620.9 and is expected to remain stable. Water clarity has improved; some debris is coming downriver. Rollers are out at the dam. Water temperature is 65 degrees. Black Crappie - Good: Anglers are catching crappies in the flooded timber on crappie rigs with minnows. Bluegill - Fair: Use light tackle tipped with piece of worm in areas away from current along the weed edges in backwaters. Channel Catfish - Fair: Expect the catfish bite to pick up with a warm-up in temperatures this week. Try cut bait or crawlers fished along current breaks of side channels. Flathead Catfish - Good: The flathead bite is picking up with the warmer temperatures. Try a shiner or small bluegill for bait. Freshwater Drum - Fair: Freshwater drum bite is coming on. Use a weighted crawler rig in the current anywhere from shore. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast jigs or jerk baits in woody cover in the shallows of backwaters. Northern Pike -  Fair: The bite has improved post-spawn. Cast crankbaits off vegetation lines. Sauger - Slow: Try hair jigs with minnows in slacker current near tailwater areas. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Smallmouth are getting more active along main channel rock structure. Cast inline spinners or crankbaits along the faster current.  Walleye - Good: Use hair jigs or drift a crawler on three-way rigs in current breaks and structure near shoreline of the tailwaters or side channel structure. Yellow Perch - Fair: Perch bite has slowed this week. Try jigging minnows or a piece of crawler; avoid the heavy current.

Mississippi River Pool 11
Water level is 11.9 feet and is expected to remain stable. Water is stained; some debris is coming downriver. Rollers are all open at the dam. Water temperature is 58 degrees. Black Crappie - Good: Anglers are catching crappies in the flooded timber on crappie rigs with minnows. Bluegill - Fair: Use light tackle tipped with piece of worm in areas away from current along the weed edges in backwaters. Channel Catfish - Fair: Expect the catfish bite to pick up with a warm-up in temperatures this week. Try cut bait or crawlers fished along current breaks of side channels.  Flathead Catfish - Good: The flathead bite is picking up with the warmer temperatures. Try a shiner or small bluegill for bait. Freshwater Drum - Fair: Freshwater drum bite is coming on. Use a weighted crawler rig in the current anywhere from shore. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast jigs or crankbaits in woody cover in the shallows of backwaters. Northern Pike - Fair: The bite has improved post-spawn. Cast crankbaits off vegetation lines. Sauger - Slow: Some smaller sauger are being caught on twister tail jigs in tailwater areas. Try hair jigs with minnows in slacker current near tailwater areas. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Smallmouth are getting more active along main channel rock structure. Cast inline spinners or crankbaits along the faster current.  Walleye -  Slow: Use hair jigs or drift a crawler on three-way rigs in current breaks and structure near shoreline of the tailwaters or side channel structure. Yellow Perch - Fair: Perch bite has slowed this week. Try jigging minnows or use a piece of crawler.

Upper Mississippi River levels remain high, but stable. Anglers report a mixed bag of species with warmer temperatures this week. Water clarity is improved. Water temperature is near 60 degress. Walleye slot length limits now apply on the entire Iowa border of the Mississippi River. All walleyes less than 15 inches long and between 20-27 inches must be immediately released. One walleye over 27 inches may be kept. Walleye/sauger combined daily limit 6/possession 12.
 

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
Water levels are 12.0 feet at the Lock and Dam and 14.2 feet at the RR bridge. Water clarity is fair. Water levels are receding. Water temperature is around 64 degrees. Bluegill - Good: Check various harbors in Dubuque for bluegills; use a worm and bobber in 3 feet or less of water. Channel Catfish - Good: Channel cats are just starting to bite and being picked up occasionally by bluegill anglers in the backwaters. Northern Pike - Slow: Pike were reported frequently earlier this year, but not much lately. Expect them to be on the feed; their populations are quite robust on the River. Sauger - Slow: Walleye and sauger angling has started out slow in Pool 12; most anglers are using jig and minnow rigs. With warmer weather, it is hoped they start to move in on the wing dams. White Crappie - Good: Crappie are being taken in marina areas and backwaters. Use a minnow attached to small jig head in 3 feet of water or less. Yellow Perch - Good: Spring can be a good season to hit tailwater yellow perch. Minnow heads and worms are the preferred bait. Keep the worm short and straight on your hooks. 

Mississippi River Pool 13
The water level at the Bellevue Lock is receding at near 12.8 feet. The water temperature is around 65 degrees. Boat ramps are open; some debris is floating due to higher water. The Bellevue DNR ramp is experiencing some minor flooding. The Lock and Dam gates are open. Bluegill - Good: Try a simple bobber and worm in the Sabula area where the wind is blowing toward shorelines. That is your warmest water. Northern Pike - No Report: Pike should start biting on sunny days; use gaudy white spinners. Paddlefish - No Report: Paddlefish season is closed for the year. Rainbow Trout - Good: The kids trout pond just north of the DNR station is stocked with rainbow trout. You can only keep two trout per child. This area will be full of aquatic vegetation in the late spring and summer, so now is the time to fish with your kids. Sauger - Slow: The bite has been somewhat slow, but some nice fish were reported. White Crappie - Good: Use small minnows in brush piles in backwater areas. Yellow Perch - Good: The bite has been good at times; most anglers are using worms for bait. 

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level at the Fulton Lock and Dam is steady at 12.3 feet, 1476 feet at Camanche, and 8.8 feet at Le Claire. Water temperature is around 65 degrees in the main channel. Water clarity is fair. Bluegill - Good: Small bluegills are being reported at Rock Creek when weather conditions have been tolerable. Northern Pike - No Report: Pike are spawning; no report on any angling for them. Paddlefish - No Report: Paddlefish season is closed for the year. Sauger - Slow: Boat ramps are all open, but angling has been slow. White Crappie - Fair: Some crappie are being taken in marina areas around docks. A few reported around the fallen trees at Rock Creek. Yellow Perch - No Report: Lots of small perch are in the system; the future for yellow perch fishing looks bright in Pool 14. The tailwaters can be a great early spot for perch when the ice recedes.

Mississippi River Pool 15
The water level is 12.6 feet at Rock Island and is still below action flood stage. The water temperature is near 68 degrees. Water clarity is fair. Bluegill - No Report: Try marina areas as few backwaters exist on Pool 15. Channel Catfish - Good: Pool 15 is home to a large population of channel catfish.  The channel cats bite has just started with most people picking them up on worms

The weather improved this week; anglers are starting to hit the River. Water levels are slightly receding. Water temperatures have risen dramatically into the mid-60s. throughout the district. If you have angling questions, please call the Bellevue Fisheries Management Station at 563-880-8781. 

 

Mississippi River Pool 16
Tailwater stage is 12.53 feet at Lock and Dam 15 in the Quad Cities and has been fairly steady. Flood stage is 15 feet. Bluegill - Fair: Some bluegills are being caught in Sunset Marina; use pieces of worm under a bobber. Channel Catfish - Fair: Some channel catfish are being caught on crawlers and stink baits around brush piles and snags. Walleye - Slow: Look for walleyes on the wing dams. Cast crankbaits or troll three-way rigs with crawlers.  White Bass - No Report: Look for white bass in Sylvan Slough. Use jigs and twister tails. Some white bass are also being caught in Sunset Marina. White Crappie - Fair: Look for crappies in the backwaters. Try jigs and minnows or minnows under a bobber. Look for fish around brush piles in Sunset Marina or the Andalusia Island complex.

Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage is 11.74 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine and is rising slightly. Flood stage is 15 feet. The gates are out of the water at the Lock and Dam. The ramp at Big Timber is closed due to high water. Bluegill - No Report: Look for bluegills in the backwaters. Try jigs and plastics or pieces of worm under a bobber around brush piles at Big Timber and Cleveland Slough. Walleye - Slow: Look for walleyes on the wing dams. Cast crankbaits or troll three-way rigs with crawlers. Some walleye can also be caught fishing along GPC.  White Crappie - No Report: Look for crappies in the backwaters. Use jigs and minnows or minnows under a bobber around brush piles in Big Timber and Cleveland Slough.

Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage is 13.23 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston and is rising slightly. Flood stage is 15 feet. The gates are out of the water at the Lock and Dam. Fishing has been slow. The Toolsboro ramp is closed due to high water. Bluegill - No Report: Look for bluegills in the backwaters. Try pieces of worm under a bobber or jigs and plastics around brush piles. Walleye - Slow: Look for walleyes on the wing dams. Cast crankbaits or troll three-way rigs with crawlers. White Crappie - No Report: Look for crappies in the backwaters. Try jigs and minnows or minnows under a bobber around brush piles at Huron Island and Belle Pocket.

Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage is 9.34 feet at Lock and Dam 18 and is steady. Flood stage is 10 feet. We have not received any fishing reports for this pool this week. Some boat ramps may be under water. 

River stages are still high. River levels are forecast to fall by early next week. Main channel water clarity is fair to poor. Water temperature is 66-67 degrees. If you have questions on fishing Pools 16-19, contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.
 

SOUTHEAST

Big Hollow Lake
Water temperature is in the low 70s. Black Crappie - Good: Crappies have moved to 14-16 feet of water.  Anglers are catching them using vertical jigging. Bluegill - Fair: A few bluegill are starting to move in shallow; crappie anglers are catching some while fishing in deeper water. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Getting a little more aggressive with the warming waters. Stick to the northside where the sun is heating up the water a little faster.

Lake Belva Deer
Water temperature is 70 degrees; a little warmer in the afternoon. Black Crappie - Fair: Crappies remain in deeper water. We have passed the spawning temperatures in the water.  A few are being caught in shallow. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers are picking up bluegills in deeper water while crappie fishing. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try fishing the slopes of the mounds at the upper end of the lake and along the old creek channels at the lower end.

Lake Darling
Water temperature is 70 degrees; up from 59 degrees on Monday. Water clarity remains good. Black Crappie - Fair: Very few crappies moved in shallow to spawn. Anglers continue to catch them on slip bobber and minnow in 6 to 8 feet of water over the rock piles and brush piles. Water temperatures has passed by their spawning temperatures. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers are catching some nice bluegills while fishing for crappies using jigs. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Bass are starting to move in shallow to feed on the little bluegills.

Lost Grove Lake
Water temperature is in the upper 60s. Water is nice and clear. Pumps were put in at the fish cleaning stations last week. Black Crappie - Fair: Crappies have stayed out in deeper water.  A few made it in shallow to spawn before it got too warm. Try a slip bobber and minnow in 8-10 feet of water. Bluegill - Fair: Most bluegills are still out in deeper water, but a few are moving into shallower water. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Bass are starting to move in shallow to feed on bait fish. A few males are starting to pick out nesting sites.

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

 

Hawthorn Lake
Bluegill - Fair: Try small jigs along the shoreline as the water warms.

Lake Miami
Bluegill - Fair: Use small jigs along the shoreline. Try different colors until you find the right combo. Channel Catfish - Slow: Try dead chubs around the shoreline.

Lake Sugema
Black Crappie - Fair: Use small jigs and minnows around the flooded trees as the water warms. Largemouth Bass - Good: Try plastics or spinnerbaits around structure.

Lake Wapello
Black Crappie - Fair: Anglers are catching some crappies with jigs. Look for structure to hold fish. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try rubber worms or other plastics fished around the cedar tree piles.

Ottumwa Park South Pond (Trout Pond)
Use small tube and twister jigs, casting spoons or live minnows fished under a bobber. You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. 

[Rick]

Best hot spots & latest news about Iowa’s fishing reports

NORTHWEST

Black Hawk Lake
Water temperatures are in the mid 70s. Water levels are 2 inches above spillway. Water clarity is about 12 inches. Black Crappie - Fair: Pick up crappie in and around the fish house in Town Bay and along Ice House Point shoreline. Crappie are up to 10- to 12-inches. Morning and evening bite are best. Bluegill - Slow: Try a nightcrawler under a bobber fished from the fish house or around the rock piles. Largemouth Bass - Slow. Walleye - Slow: Try the submerged rock piles in the east basin and the shoreline along Ice House Point. 

Brushy Creek Lake
Water temperatures are in the mid-70s. Black Crappie - Fair: Find crappie in 10-15 feet of water. Bluegill - Slow: Find bluegill near submerged rock/brush piles in 5-15 feet of water. Largemouth Bass – Fair: Try soft plastics in deeper weedlines and rock/brush piles in 8-15 feet of water.  Walleye - Slow: Pick up walleye in 10-15 feet of water on rock/brush piles. Yellow Perch – Fair

North Twin Lake
Water levels are about 12 inches below the crest of the spillway. Surface water temperatures are in the mid 70s. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try fishing from shore in 2-6 feet of water near rocky structure.  A recent survey showed good numbers of 16-inches to 24-inches fish. 

Storm Lake (incl Little Storm Lake)
Water temperatures are in the low to mid-70s. Black Crappie – Slow. Channel Catfish - Fair. Largemouth Bass - Slow. Walleye - Fair: Pick up walleye off shore near the dredge cuts; use a crawler harness or crankbaits. White Bass - Fair. Yellow Bass – Fair.

Water temperatures are in the mid 70s in most area lakes. For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.

 

Beeds Lake
Black Crappie - Good: Drift fish or troll small jigs along the north shore. Bluegill - Fair. Yellow Bass - Slow.

Clear Lake
Water level is about 1 inch below crest. Water temperatures are mid-70s. Water clarity is 20 inches. Channel Catfish - Slow: Try fishing rock reef areas and wind-swept shorelines. Best bite after sunset. Walleye - Fair: Anglers are catching walleye with live bait and crankbaits. Fish are in 3 to 8 feet of water. Try rock reefs areas and near edge of vegetation. Yellow Bass - Fair: Anglers are catching a few yellow bass while targeting walleye. Live bait below slip bobbers or drifting works best.

Crystal Lake
Black Crappie- Fair: Drift fish or troll small jigs in the dredge cut. Bluegill - Fair.  Walleye - Fair: Try fishing near vegetation edges and along the old roadbed.

Rice Lake
Bluegill – Slow. Largemouth Bass - Good: Try fishing woody habitat. Morning bite best. Walleye - slow.

Winnebago River
River level is 5.2 feet. Smallmouth Bass - Fair. 

For information on lakes and rivers in north central Iowa, contact Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517.
 

East Okoboji Lake
Lake level is around 2 inches over crest. Black Crappie - Good:  Bluegill - Good: Many bluegill seen, easily catchable around functional docks. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Bass are a little ways off shore; you can still find some around docks and other structure. Yellow Perch - Good: Many perch  seen; sorting most likely needed.

Ingham Lake
Walleye - Fair: Anglers success morning and afternoon.  

Silver Lake (Dickinson)
Lake level is below crest. Lake outlet boards broken during high water this summer, but now replaced. Lake is experiencing an algae bloom. Walleye - Good: Bite hit-or-miss, but very good when bite is on.

Spirit Lake
Lake level is around 1 inch over crest. Black Crappie - Good: Anglers finding quality-size crappie; biting on almost anything. Bluegill - Fair. Walleye - Good: Anglers are catching quality-sized walleye. Evening bite best with leech and bobber from shore or crankbaits and slip bobbers by boat. Yellow Perch - Good: Sorting may be needed.

West Okoboji Lake
Lake level about 2 inches above crest. Black Crappie - Fair: Bluegill - Good. Pumpkinseed - Good. Walleye - Fair. Yellow Perch - Fair: Sorting may be needed.

Water levels are barely above crest and water temperatures are in the low to mid 70s. Many area lakes are currently experiencing algae blooms. 

For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.
 

NORTHEAST

Cedar River (above Nashua)
Water clarity improving as levels return to normal. Use caution when water; watch for submerged hazards. Visit the National Water Prediction Service webpage for more information. Channel Catfish - Good: Try worms or chubs fished on the bottom in calm water or edge of current. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Use crankbaits in off channel areas or eddies. Walleye - Good: Find walleye in deeper water; try jigs tipped with minnow or spinnerbaits.

Decorah District Streams  
All announced and unannounced streams stocked this week. Streams in northern Winneshiek and Allamakee counties clearing after recent rains. Wild parsnip is dying back. Don't touch this plant; it can cause painful blisters. Terrestrial insects are more abundant as heat of summer progresses. Gnats, mosquitoes, and no-see-ums are out in force. Brook Trout - Slow: Sneak up on brook trout for a better chance to catch one of these beauties. Good hatches of mayflies, dragonflies, grasshoppers, crickets, and ants. Brown Trout - Good: Try fishing near or around logs or undercut banks. Spinnerbaits work well. Also try streamers on larger waterbodies. Brown trout like cloudy water. Rainbow Trout - Good: Use spinnerbaits, hair jigs, or hooks tipped with a small piece of worm, bread, or cheese floated through deeper holes.

Lake Hendricks
Water clarity is good. Water temperature in the 80s. Black Crappie - Good: Try small jigs tipped with minnow in about 6 feet of water.  Bluegill – Good: Bluegills are shallow; use a small piece of worm or waxworm. Channel Catfish - Good: Try nightcrawler or squashed minnow on hook near bottom. Largemouth Bass - Good: Use topwater lures along edge of vegetation. 

Lake Meyer
Lake clarity continues to improve. Water temperature low 80s. Most fish suspended at depths not greater than 6 feet. Black Crappie - Good: Use spinnerbaits or jig tipped with minnow in 6 feet of water or less. Trolling is a great option. Bluegill - Good: Try small hooks tipped with a waxworm or small piece of worm under bobber. Channel Catfish - Good: Use nightcrawler on hook fished at bottom. Largemouth Bass - Good: Try spinnerbait along edge of vegetation. Reports of anglers catching quite a few small bass.

North Bear Creek
Stream habitat improvements completed on upper North Bear downstream of 380th St. bridge with seeding and mulching. Improvements between 128th Ave. and 380th Street will start soon. Rainbow Trout - Slow: Thanks for staying out of this area until vegetation gets established. There are many other great locations to fish on North Bear. Stocking continues below this area weekly.

Turkey River (above Clermont)
Water clarity is good as levels stabilize. Use caution when on water. Visit National Water Prediction Service webpage for more information. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Use shallow running crankbaits or spinners along current breaks or rocky shores. Walleye - Good: Try fishing near evening along rocky shorelines or current breaks. 

Turkey River (below Clermont)
Water clarity improving as levels return to normal. Use caution when on water. Visit National Water Prediction Service webpage for more. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Find smallies in deeper holes or near rock ledges. Walleye - Good: Use crankbaits or jigs tipped with plastics in off channel areas.

Upper Iowa River (above Decorah)
Water level stabilizing with improved clarity. Use caution on water. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Find bass along rock ledges and deeper pools around woody habitat. Walleye - Good: Find walleye in deeper runs or pools and in back eddies; use spinnerbaits or a jig tipped with a plastic worm.

Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)
Water level stabilizing with improved clarity. Use caution as snags and debris move through. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Find smallies in off channel areas and back eddies; use spinners or streamers. Walleye - Fair: Find walleyes in deeper water and back eddies. Evening bite is best; try spinners or crankbaits. 

Volga Lake
Water clarity improving. Water temperature in the 80s. Black Crappie – Good: Find crappies in 6 feet of water or less or near drop-offs; use a jig tipped with a minnow. Bluegill – Good: Try a small piece of worm on a hook under bobber near brush or rocky areas. Channel Catfish – Good: Use a squished minnow or worm fished on bottom. Largemouth Bass – Good: Try spinners or crankbaits along jetties or drop-offs. 

Volga River
Water levels elevated but stabilizing with improved clarity. Visit National Water Prediction Service webpage for details.

Yellow River
Water levels stabilizing with improved water clarity. Use caution as snags and debris move through. Brown Trout - Good: Find trout below or just off riffles. A spinner or shallow running crankbait should interest a hungry mouth. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Try jigs tipped with plastics in deeper holes or near rocky ledges.

Water levels on area rivers and streams are falling or stabilizing. Water clarity is good to excellent. Weekend temperatures in upper 80s to low 90s for highs to upper 60s at night. Chance of storms possible through Saturday. For more, contact Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.
 

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)

Anglers are catching channel catfish. Channel Catfish - Good: Try chubs fished on river bottom below snags or other structure. Flathead Catfish - Fair: Use chubs on river bottom below snags or other structure. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Try lead head jigs with twister tails. Walleye - Fair: Cast and retrieve lead head jigs tipped with a nightcrawler. 

George Wyth Lake
Anglers are catching crappie and bluegill. Black Crappie - Good: Use electronics to find and drift a live minnow under a bobber or artificial jigs over structure in 6 to 8 feet of water. Bluegill - Good: Use a piece of worm under a bobber in areas with structure or off the jetties.

Lake Delhi
Anglers are catching crappie. Avoid weekends; concentrate efforts early morning and evenings during the weekdays. Black Crappie - Good: Try a minnow under a slip bobber around shoreline structure in 6 to 8 feet of water.

Manchester District Streams
Rainbow trout stocking on schedule. Brown trout fishing fair, especially evenings. Brown Trout - Fair: Use crankbaits, jigs, spinners, dry flies, or nymphs. Rainbow Trout - Good: Try jigs, spinners, crankbaits, or live bait.

Maquoketa River (above Monticello)
Anglers catching smallmouth bass and walleye in Delaware County. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Use live or artificial tackle. Walleye - Fair: Cast and retrieve lead head jigs tipped with a nightcrawler.

Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)
No fishing information this week.

Wapsipinicon River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)
Anglers are catching smallmouth bass. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Use lead head jigs with twister tails.

Interior rivers are at usual levels this time of year to provide great angling. Lakes in and around Cedar Falls are producing catches of panfish. Trout streams remain in excellent condition. For more, contact Manchester Hatchery at 563-927-3276. 

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Mississippi River Pool 9
Water level is 8.1 feet at Lansing, predicted stable next week. Water slightly stained and 75 degrees. Army Road at New Albin, Heytman's Landing, and Lansing Village Creek are open. Bluegill - Excellent: Bluegill moved off spawning beds into deeper water. Use light tackle on flooded shorelines and weed beds. Channel Catfish - Good: Anglers catching channel cats on crawlers and stink bait. Flathead Catfish - Good: Use live bluegill or shiners in tailwaters of Lock & Dams and large tree snags in deeper sloughs. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Try a piece of crawler off bottom along main channel and side channel current.  Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast frog baits along weed edges in upper portions of backwaters. Northern Pike - Good: Try fishing the shallows along weed beds in backwater lakes. Try fishing near the mouth of coldwater streams and spring inlets during the heat of summer. Smallmouth Bass - Excellent: Smallmouth are biting in areas with moderate current. Cast spinners and crankbaits along the main channel rock shorelines. Walleye - Fair: Troll crankbaits on three-way rigs along deep side channel borders and wing dams. White Bass - Good: Throw inline spinners along current breaks. Watch for schools of minnows jumping as white bass are feeding. Yellow Perch - Fair: Jig for perch in the vegetation off edge of cuts in 6-8 feet of water.

Mississippi River Pool 10
Water level is 615.8 feet at Lynxville and is predicted to settle around 615 feet next week. Boat ramps at Nobles Island, Marquette, McGregor, Bussey Lake, and Sny Magill are open.  Bluegill - Excellent: Bluegill have moved off spawning beds into deeper water. Use light tackle on flooded shorelines and weed beds. Channel Catfish - Good: Anglers are catching a few channel cats on crawlers. Flathead Catfish - Good: Use live bluegill or shiners in the tailwaters of the Lock & Dams and large tree snags in deeper sloughs. Freshwater Drum - Good: Try a piece of crawler off the bottom along the main channel and side channel current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast frog baits along weed edges in upper portions of the backwaters. Northern Pike - Fair: Try fishing the shallows along weed beds in backwater lakes. Try near the mouth of coldwater streams and spring inlets during the heat of summer.  Smallmouth Bass - Good: Smallmouth are biting in areas with moderate current. Cast spinners and crankbaits along the main channel rock shorelines or at the spillway. Walleye - Fair: Troll crankbaits on three-way rigs along deep side channel borders and wing dams. White Bass - Good: Throw inline spinners along current breaks. Watch for schools of minnows jumping as white bass are feeding. Yellow Perch - Fair: Jig for perch in the vegetation off edge of cuts in 6-8 feet of water.

Mississippi River Pool 11
Water level is 8.9 feet at Guttenberg in the tailwaters and is expected to settle near 8.0 feet next week. Guttenberg City, Turkey River Landing, Finley's Landing and Mud Lake ramps are open. Bluegill - Excellent: Bluegill have moved off spawning beds into deeper water. Use light tackle on flooded shorelines and weed beds. Channel Catfish - Good: Anglers are catching a few channel cats on crawlers or cut bait. Flathead Catfish - Good: Use live bluegill or shiners in the tailwaters of the Lock & Dams and large tree snags in deeper sloughs. Freshwater Drum - Good: Try a piece of crawler off the bottom along the main channel and side channel current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Cast frog baits along weed edges in upper portions of the backwaters. Northern Pike - Good: Try fishing the shallows along weed beds in backwater lakes. Try near the mouth of coldwater streams and spring inlets during the heat of summer. Smallmouth Bass - Excellent: Smallmouth are biting in areas with moderate current. Cast spinners and crankbaits along the main channel rock shorelines. Walleye - Fair: Troll crankbaits on three-way rigs along deep side channel borders and wing dams. White Bass - Good: Throw inline spinners along current breaks. Watch for schools of minnows jumping as white bass are feeding. Yellow Perch - Fair: Jig for perch in the vegetation off edge of cuts in 6-8 feet of water.

Upper Mississippi River levels at Pools 9 -11 are falling slightly and expected to stabilize. All boat ramps have reopened. Water temperatures are in the mid to upper 70s. A lot of weeds are floating, but water clarity is improving. Panfish are biting in areas of slight current.

 

Mississippi River Pool 12
Water level is stable at 7.2 feet at Dubuque Lock and Dam and 9.6 feet at the RR bridge. Water temperature is in the upper 70s. Bluegill - Good: Try fishing along the weedline edges that are starting to show back up after the flood receded. Channel Catfish - Excellent: The post-flood bite has been phenomenal; most anglers are using stink bait. Flathead Catfish - Fair: Anglers are using trot lines where they can find non-flooded banks. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Use big crayfish to catch big drum. Otherwise try a simple egg sinker worm rig in areas of moderate current. Largemouth Bass - Excellent: Bass are stacked up along shoreline weed edges. Northern Pike - Good: Pike, like other predators, are seen feeding on the abundant forage along the shorelines. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try small crankbaits or spinners along rock lines. Walleye - Fair: Many anglers are targeting smaller flowing sloughs with crankbaits. White Bass - Good: White bass have been a consistent in the creel. Try flashy spinners in tailwater areas.

Mississippi River Pool 13
The water level is receding slowly and near 7.9 feet at Bellevue. Water temperature is 75 degrees. The water is clear. Bluegill - Good: Some sorting may be needed to find nicer bluegill; many are being caught with worm rigs along the main channel shoreline. Brown Bullhead - No Report: Anglers using egg sinker and worm rigs in the lower pool above Clinton are catching good numbers of this unique bullhead. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Channel catfishing has been phenomenal post-flood; most anglers are using stink bait. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Drum are a consistent biter in moderate current areas; use an egg sinker worm rig. Largemouth Bass - Excellent: Find weed lines away from the main channel. Anglers are using gaudy spinnerbaits or frog imitation lures. Smallmouth Bass - Excellent: Try spinners or jigs around rock lines to catch abundant smallies. Walleye - Fair: Some vegetation is starting to float after the flood making keeping a crankbait in the water a little difficult. White Bass - Excellent: Try white jigs or small spinners in the Bellevue tailwaters.

Mississippi River Pool 14
The water level is slowly receding near 7.2 feet at Fulton, 10.8 feet at Camanche and 5.6 feet at LeClaire. The water is clear. Water temperature is 77 degrees. Bluegill - Good: Some sorting may be needed to find nicer bluegill; many are being caught with worm rigs along the main channel shoreline. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Channel catfish like flood waters and will move along the banks to feed; use stink baits. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Worm rig with egg sinker fished along shore in moderate current will catch this consistent biter. Largemouth Bass - Excellent: Find weedlines that remain after the flood recedes; throw frog lures or spinner baits. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Use spinners or jigs next to rock lines. White Bass - Good: Try flashy spinners or small white jigs along shorelines near the tailwater. 

Mississippi River Pool 15 
The water level is slowly receding near 7.8 feet at Rock Island. The water is clear. Water temperature is around 77 degrees. Channel Catfish - Excellent: Try stink bait rigs near shore to catch abundant catfish. Freshwater Drum - Excellent: Worm rig with egg sinker fished along shore in moderate current will catch this consistent biter. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Try fishing along the many rock lines with moderate current to catch abundant smallmouth bass.

Water has been somewhat stable the past three weeks. Quality fishing has returned to the river. If you have angling questions, please call Bellevue Fisheries Management at 563-880-8781. 
 

SOUTHEAST

Cedar River (Moscow to Columbus Junction))
Water level is down a little more. Some sandbars are starting to show up.

Iowa River (Columbus Junction to Mississippi River)
Very slowly dropping in level. Still more than enough to boat, just the highest parts of the sandbars showing.  Channel Catfish  - Good: Try minnows and nightcrawlers along the back drop-offs on the sandbars and just behind the back edges of the brush piles, not too far out from the bank.

Lake Belva Deer
Water temperature is down a little more to the mid 70s degrees. Water clarity remains a foot and a half with green water. Black Crappie - Slow: Try slow drifting out from the beach along the tree line down to about the north boat ramp. Bluegill - Fair: Expect bluegills to start to move into shallower water, but not in a rush to do so. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Expect bass to start to move into shallow chasing the bluegills; they currently are happy in the deeper water.

Lake Darling
Water temperature is in mid 70s and holding. Water remains cloudy but less green. Bluegill - Fair: Smaller bluegills are moving closer to shore. Bigger fish ones are still keeping to the deeper water in 10-12 feet. Channel Catfish - Fair: The cooler water temperature are getting the water in upper layer mixing good oxygen down to 12-13 feet.

Lake Geode
Water temperature has dropped into the upper 70s Water clarity is a little under 3 feet. Bluegill - Fair: Smaller bluegills are active. Try drift troll over the deeper habitat to find bigger ones that are getting to 8 inch in size. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try to work the flat up along the north shore down lake of the beach.  Catfish like the area when water is cooling down.

Lost Grove Lake
Water temperature is holding in the mid-70s. Water still has a green tint.  Channel Catfish - Fair: Still finding some around the culvert piles and along the face of the dam. Most anglers are using the stink baits. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Expect some bass to start to move in shallower; try jigging off the deeper (10-12 feet) habitat: trees and rock piles.  

Skunk River (Rose Hill to Coppock)
Water remains at about half bank full level. Current speed has slowed down to about normal. Should be plenty of water for most jon boats.  Channel Catfish - Good: Try cut baits and stink bait with good hook holding ability.

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

Central Park Lake
Bluegill - Good: Use small plastics or worms to catch suspended fish in open water. Channel Catfish – Good: Try crawlers, chicken livers, or stink bait around rocks. Lots of eater-sized fish are being caught. Largemouth Bass – Good: A variety of artificials are working all day.  Redear Sunfish - Good: Slow: Fish are suspended with the bluegills. Best bite is evenings or after dark on small jigs or worms.

Coralville Reservoir
Lake level is holding at 683.7 feet. The water is dirtier than it has been, especially in the upper section. Water temps are in mid 70s. Channel Catfish - Fair: Troll or drift cut bait in the channel. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Cast artificials along rocky shorelines. Walleye - Slow : Try fishing early or late with a jig/crawler on rock banks. White Crappie - Fair: Use bright jigs or minnows along rock bluffs or over deeper brush.

Diamond Lake
Black Crappie – Slow.  Bluegill – Fair. Channel Catfish – Fair.  Largemouth Bass – Slow. 

Hannen Lake
Bluegill - Good: Most fish are smaller-sized. Channel Catfish - Fair: Some 2-3 pound catfish are being caught. Largemouth Bass - Fair: More 15-inch bass are showing up.

Lake Macbride
The 10 hp maximum is in effect. Water temps are in the mid 70s. Black Crappie - Fair: Try jigs or minnows around brush in 5-10 feet of water. Bluegill - Fair: Use worms or small jigs around rock shorelines or rock humps. Channel Catfish - Fair: Chicken livers or crawlers work best. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Try fishing around rock, wood, or vegetation. Spotted bass - Good: Try fishing along shallow rock. Most  fish are less than 14-inches. Walleye - Slow: Fish rockbars and points with jigs or live bait rigs. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) -Fair: Troll crankbaits in open water or watch for surface activity early/late in the day.

Pleasant Creek Lake
Mornings and evenings have been best for all species. Black Crappie - Slow. Bluegill - Fair.  Channel Catfish - Fair. Largemouth Bass - Fair.  Walleye - Slow.  Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair.

Wapsipinicon River (Troy Mills to Oxford Junction)
River levels are low. Walleye - Good: Try crankbaits or jig/crawler in deeper holes.

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

Hawthorn Lake
Black Crappie - Fair: Try jig and minnow combinations in brush piles. Bluegill - Fair: Use jigs along the shoreline and open areas in the vegetation. Tip the jigs with a chunk of nightcrawler. Channel Catfish - Fair: Try nightcrawlers or chubs in 6-10 feet of water. Largemouth Bass - Good: Target the fishing jetties and rip-rapped shorelines. Use plastics in these areas and in open areas of the vegetation.

Lake Keomah
Lake Keomah is drained for a lake restoration project. 

[snagfinder]

Fish quit biting for 27 months?

[Rick]

On 8/23/2024 at 11:46 AM, snagfinder said:

Fish quit biting for 27 months?

28.