- Joined
- Jun 16, 2010
- Location
- North Liberty, Iowa
For immediate release: March 24, 2011
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources issues a weekly fishing report on Thursdays in an effort to provide the latest information heading into the weekend. The weekly fishing report is compiled from information gathered from local bait shops, angler creel surveys, and county and state parks staff. For current information, contact the district fisheries office at the phone number listed at the end of each district report.
NORTHWEST
Crawford Creek Impoundment
Crawford Creek is open. Few anglers have been out fishing.
Badger Lake
Ice went out on Badger Lake on March 21.
Brushy Creek Lake
There is very little ice left on the lake.
Bacon Creek Lake
Fifteen hundred rainbow trout were stocked January 8. Anglers need a trout stamp in addition to their regular fishing license to fish for or keep trout. Daily limit of trout is 5.
Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Storm Lake has opened up. Walleye - Fair: Anglers have been catching walleye in the marina. Try bouncing a minnow on a jig head along the bottom or float a live minnow just off the bottom with a slip bobber.
North Twin Lake
North Twin Lake is ice free.
Swan Lake
Swan Lake is ice free. There are some panfish being caught around the fish house.
Black Hawk Lake
Black Hawk Lake opened up completely March 19.
Browns Lake
Browns Lake is open. Courtesy docks are in.
Snyder Bend Lake
Snyder bend is open. Anglers have been catching channel catfish and bullheads at the north end.
Southwood Conservation Area Pond (east)
The Southwood Ponds are open. There has been little fishing activity.
North Raccoon River (above State Highway 175 bridge near Auburn)
Conditions are good for river fishing right now. Anglers are catching some nice walleyes out of the river. Target areas below rock riffles and around bridges.
All of the large lakes have opened up. There are still a few small ponds and gravel pits in the area that have some ice on them. The rivers are pretty good for fishing right now. For more information on the lakes and rivers in this area contact Ben Wallace or Don Herrig at the Black Hawk Fish Management Office in Lake View at 712-657-2638.
Clear Lake
With the recent weather, ice conditions are no longer safe. There is open water at the grade but no reports of fish biting.
For more information on fishing in the area lakes and rivers, call the Clear Lake Fisheries Office at (641) 357-3517.
Big Sioux River
Channel Catfish - Good: Fish backwaters with cut bait for best results.
Little Sioux River (state line to Linn Grove)
Northern Pike - Good: Some pike have been caught in the backwater areas of the river.
Ice conditions are no longer safe on area lakes for ice fishing. The past week of rain has deteriorated ice throughout all area lakes. Also, remember that walleye season is now closed on Big Spirit, East Okoboji, and West Okoboji until May 7. Fishing on area rivers has picked up, however, given the high water only fish backwater areas away from the current and use caution near flooded waters.
NORTHEAST
Volga Lake
Ice fishing not recommended for this body of water.
Lake Hendricks
Ice fishing not recommended for this body of water. Bluegill - No Report:
Lake Meyer
Ice fishing not recommended for this body of water. Bluegill - No Report:
Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)
Water levels on the Upper Iowa are going up at this time. Rainbow Trout - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Cedar River (above Nashua)
Water levels are on the rise and may have temporarily leveled off barring any more rain and snow melt. Northern Pike - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Decorah District Streams
Through March 19, a few clear streams produced excellent blue wing olive hatches and trout were readily taken on #16 Adams and #16 Blue Wing Quills. As of March 20, northeast Iowa streams were high and muddy due to snowmelt runoff and weekend rains. Watch out for the big Hendrickson mayflies within the next two weeks. For the spin fisher, jigs work well for this time of year. The Proposed 2011 Trout Stocking Schedule is now available on the Iowa DNR website.
Ice fishing not recommended for lakes in our area. Rivers are up. Most of the trout streams are high and off color. For more information, call the Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.
Manchester District Streams
Trout streams are in excellent condition.
Most area lakes are now open but have not received any fishing reports. Interior rivers are not advisable with current high water conditions. Trout streams in the Manchester District remain in excellent condition. Be sure to mark your calendars for the urban trout stockings occurring in Cedar Falls April 2 and in Dubuque April 9. For further information contact the Manchester District Office at 563-927-3276.
MISSISSIPPI RIVER
Mississippi River Pool 9
River level at Lansing is 10.9 and expected to rise to 13 feet by next week. The road to the New Albin ramp is under water. Boaters should still be able to access the river at Lansing. Walleye - Fair: High water is making it difficult to find fish but a few nice walleye can be caught in Minnesota Slough by those able to get out.
Mississippi River Pool 10
Tailwater stage at Lynxville is 20.4. River levels are predicted to rise to near 23 feet by next week. The road to Sny Magill is flooded. You can still access Bussey Lake but later this week it may be too difficult to launch there. Boaters will still be able to access the river at the Harpers Ferry high water ramp. Sauger - Fair: Although some nice catches of sauger have been reported over the last week, high water is making it more difficult to find fish. Walleye - Fair: Some nice walleyes have been caught but high water is making it more difficult to find fish.
Mississippi River Pool 11
Guttenberg tailwater stage is 11.8. River levels are expected to rise to near 15 feet by next week. You can still access the river at the Guttenberg City ramp but as levels come up it may be more difficult. The DNR ramp will provide access at 15 feet but parking is limited and you may have to park trailers on side streets by the DNR office. Sauger - Fair: Some sauger are being caught in the tailwater on jigs and minnows or three-way rigs, but high water is making it difficult to find fish. Walleye - Fair: Some nice walleyes have been reported, but high water is making it more difficult to find fish.
Ice has gone out of most backwaters. River levels are high and expected to rise another three feet to near or above flood stage by next week. High water may limit access to some boat ramps. With the rapid rising water boaters should be cautious of floating debris and ice.
Mississippi River Pool 12
River stage in Dubuque is 13.7 feet and is forecast to rise to 16 feet by this weekend and 17.8 feet by next Wednesday. Flood stage is 17 feet. Water clarity is fair but deteriorating, and water temperatures are in the high 30s. Sauger - Fair: Sauger fishing has been fair in the tailwater area on jigs or three-way rigs tipped with minnows or crankbaits. Walleye - Fair: Walleye fishing has been fair in the tailwater area on jigs or three-way rigs tipped with minnows or crankbaits.
Mississippi River Pool 13
River stage in Bellevue is 12.4 feet and is forecast to rise to 17.1 feet by next Wednesday. Flood stage is 17 feet. Water clarity is fair but deteriorating, and water temperatures are in the high 30s. Sauger - Fair: Sauger fishing has been fair in the tailwater area on jigs or three-way rigs tipped with crawlers, minnows, or crankbaits. Fishing will get worse as the river rises and gets more turbid. Walleye - Fair: Walleye fishing has been fair in the tailwater area on jigs or three-way rigs tipped with crawlers, minnows or crankbaits. Fishing will get worse as the river rises and gets more turbid.
Mississippi River Pool 14
River stage at Camanche is 14.3 feet and is forecast to rise to 18.3 feet by next Wednesday. Flood stage is 17 feet. Water clarity is fair but deteriorating, and water temperatures are in the high 30s. Snaggers in the tailwaters have been doing well catching paddlefish over the past couple of weeks. Remember, all paddlefish 33 inches and larger must be released. Sauger - Fair: Sauger fishing has been fair in the tailwater area on jigs or three-way rigs tipped with crawlers, minnows or crankbaits. Walleye - Fair: Walleye fishing has been fair in the tailwater area on jigs or three-way rigs tipped with crawlers, minnows, or crankbaits.
For fishing information in Pool 12-15 of the Mississippi River contact the Bellevue Fish Management and Research Station at 563-872-4976
Mississippi River Pool 16
Tailwater stage at Lock and Dam 15 is 12.13 feet and rising. With current river stage predictions, river levels at Lock and Dam 15 are forecasted to reach flood stage by Sunday. Flood stage at Lock and Dam 15 is 15 feet. Fishing has slowed down. Bluegill - No Report: Crappie - No Report: Sauger - Slow: Walleye - Slow:
Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage at Lock and Dam 16 is 10.91 feet and rising. With current river stage predictions, river level at Lock and Dam 16 is forecasted to reach flood stage by early next week. Flood stage for Lock and Dam 16 is 15 feet. The ramp at Big Timber has been closed due to high water. Fishing has been slow. Bluegill - No Report: Crappie - No Report: Sauger - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage at Lock and Dam 17 is 12.56 feet and rising. River levels are forecasted to reach flood stage during the weekend. Flood stage at Lock and Dam 17 is 15 feet. The ramp at Toolesboro has been closed due to high water. Fishing has slowed due to high water conditions. Channel Catfish - No Report: Sauger - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage at Lock and Dam 18 is 8.48 feet and rising. The river is forecasted to reach flood stage by this Friday. Flood stage at Lock and Dam 18 is 10 feet. Fishing has slowed down due to high water conditions. Sauger - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Pools 16-19: River levels are rising and expected to reach flood stage during the weekend. Some boat ramps have been closed due to high water conditions. Fishing has slowed throughout the pools due to high water conditions. For more fishing information on Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.
SOUTHEAST
Lake Geode
The lake is ice free. Very little angler activity.
Lake of the Hills
Two thousand trout were released last Saturday with more than 225 people coming out to fish. Rainbow Trout - Excellent: Spinners and corn seem to be the hot lures and many anglers are limiting out. Fly fishermen are consistently doing well also. Bluegill - Slow: There are a few bluegills being caught by anglers out enjoying the nice weather. Crappie - Slow: Anglers are picking up a few crappies around the brush piles during the warm afternoons.
Lambach Lake
This shallower lake in the West Lake Park is warming up faster than the bigger deeper lakes. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Anglers are starting to catch a few bass. Try to fish during the warmer afternoons using jigs or plastic worms working them slowly.
Wilson Lake
The lake is ice free and there have been a few anglers out enjoying the nice weather. THE SPRING TROUT STOCKING WILL BE SATURDAY, MARCH 26. ONE THOUSAND TROUT WILL BE STOCKED AT 1 p.m. Spinners and flashy lures seem to work best during the first few hours after the release.
Environmental Discovery Park North Pond
THIS SATURDAY, MARCH 26th IS THE SPRING TROUT RELEASE AT DISCOVERY PARK. Nine hundred rainbow trout and 100 brook trout will be released at 10:30 am. Rainbow Trout - Excellent: Spinners and other flashy lures will work the best right after the release. Other baits and lures start working better after the fish have calmed down.
For more information on the above lakes call the Lake Darling Fisheries Station at (319) 694-2430
Iowa Lake
The lake is ice free and the boat ramp is usable. No fishing reports are available.
Kent Park Lake
The lake is ice free and the boat ramp is open. No fishing reports are available.
Lake Macbride
The lake is ice free and all boat ramps are open. Crappie - Fair: Some anglers are having some success. East of the causeway has been producing the best.
Pleasant Creek Lake
The lake is ice free and the boat ramps are open. No fishing reports are available.
Diamond Lake
The lake is ice free and the boat ramp is open. Bluegill - Slow: Largemouth Bass - Slow:
Otter Creek Lake
The lake is ice free and the boat ramp is open. No fishing reports are available.
Coralville Reservoir
The lake is at 679.3 feet and holding. Use caution when boating at this level. Areas above Jolly Rodgers (Bobbers) are extremely shallow. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use cut shad or shad guts for best results. The upper end of the reservoir seems to be the most productive. Walleye - Slow: Use jig/twister or jig/minnow for best results. The area around I-380 bridge has been best.
Iowa River (Coralville Lake to River Junction)
As of 3/24, the flow from the "tube" is 3,500 cubic feet per second (CFS). It is predicted to jump to 4,400 CFS for the weekend, then begin to decrease next week. Walleye - Fair: A few fish are being caught on jigs. Below the dams in Iowa City have been the best areas.
Prairie Park Fishery
There will be a fishing event Saturday, March 26 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Two thousand trout will be stocked in the lake right before the event and prizes will be awarded to the anglers that catch any of the 100 tagged fish. All rules and regulations (including licenses and trout stamps) apply to this event. Be aware that Otis Road (North of Prairie Park entrance) is expected to be closed due to high water. Rainbow Trout - Excellent: Fish will be stocked Saturday morning. Use small jigs, spinners, worms, or numerous other scented baits. Brook Trout - Excellent: Fish will be stocked Saturday morning. Use small jigs, spinners, worms, or numerous other scented baits.
For more information, contact the Lake Macbride Fisheries Station at 319-624-3615.
Hawthorn Lake (aka Barnes City Lake)
The lake has been drained for a lake renovation and work has begun around the lake. New fish habitat areas are being built along with some new jetties.
Lake Sugema
The lake now has open water with all the ice melting. Fishing has been slow.
Ottumwa Lagoon
A trout stocking event was held on March 19. Trout were stocked so try using spinners, worms or other trout bait.
Rathbun Reservoir
The lake level is at 902.89 with 904.0 being normal pool. The lake has opened up. Anglers are reminded that walleyes have been tagged in Lake Rathbun and if tagged fish are caught please take the time to look under the jaw of the walleye to check for a tag. Please call the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with any tagged walleye information or questions.
For further fishing reports in south central Iowa call the Rathbun fish hatchery at 641-647-2406
SOUTHWEST
Des Moines River (Stratford to Saylorville Lake)
Walleye - Fair: Anglers below the Saylorville spillway were catching some good walleye during the warmer weather. The colder weather shouldn't completely stop the bite, but will slow it down until a warm up. Bounce a jig tipped with a minnow, white or chartreuse twister tail or ring worm like soft plastics through the slack water. Chartreuse twisters have been outfishing the rest. Further upstream near Boone and Fraser the river has risen high enough to flow level over the dams.
Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock)
Walleye - Good: A decent walleye bite continues below the Red Rock spillway. They are being caught throwing jigs with twisters or jigs with minnows. Anglers fishing the Center Street dam in Des Moines are also catching some walleye throwing jigs with chartreuse or white twisters.
The best fishing right now is for walleyes and catfish in the rivers below dams and spillways and along rip-rap banks. The cold weather that moved in will cool the water temps and the walleye bite for the weekend. Fishing should become good again as soon as we see a warm up. For questions on Central Iowa lakes and rivers contact Ben Dodd or Andy Otting at 515-432-2823.
Lake Anita
Anita is ice free and anglers are catching crappies in the upper arms of the lake on warm sunny days. Crappie - Fair: Earlier in the week crappies were being caught in the pontoon area with small jigs under a bobber.
Lake Manawa
Manawa is ice free and crappies are biting in the canals. Crappie - Fair: Crappie bite has slowed with cooler temperatures. They are still hitting on jigs and minnows in the canals on the west side of the lake. Many 10 inch fish are being caught.
Cold Springs District Farm Ponds
Farm ponds typically warm quickly and can provide good early season fishing. Remember to always get permission to fish private farm ponds. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Largemouth are being caught next to shore on sunny days casting small spinner baits using a slow retrieve.
Open water fishing has begun. Crappies and channel catfish can be caught in shallow bays where the water warms quickly. For more information on fishing call the S.W. District Office at (712) 769-2587.
Lake Icaria
Some windblown shoreline areas have temperatures above 45. Anglers are fishing mostly for walleye and channel catfish. Channel Catfish - Good: A lot of channel catfish are coming from the windy shoreline shallows. Walleye - Slow: Some groups are finding success while fishing the mounds and rocky areas near the dam.
Green Valley Lake
The water level is down about 9 feet for the sediment removal project. The lake is open and the main boat ramp has enough water to easily launch a boat. All sport-fish species are big biting enough to interest the angler. Channel Catfish - Good: The channel catfish are biting well on shad bait in the shallow areas where the wind is blowing into shore. Most are from 2 to 4 pounds.
Three Mile Lake
The main boat ramp is usable but some ice remains on the lake. Most of the ice should be gone by the weekend. Channel Catfish - Fair: A few real nice sized channels are being picked up from the shallow bays at the upper end. Walleye - Fair: A few males are being caught from the rocky areas near dark. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Several wipers are being caught on crank-baits by walleye anglers trolling the rocky points.
Twelve Mile Creek Lake
The lake is open and the temperatures range is 40 to 50 degrees. Shoreline access is possible from any of the popular access points. Bullhead - Good: Several giant sized bullheads are being caught on crawlers at the upper end. Walleye - Fair: Several males are being caught from the rocks of the dam and the rock points and reefs.
All of the lakes are completely open. Water temperatures vary widely. Small lakes can be near 50 degrees but the bigger lakes are at or just below 40. All species of sport-fish are being caught but the success varies. Reports are coming in of very successful trips and others are not as productive.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources issues a weekly fishing report on Thursdays in an effort to provide the latest information heading into the weekend. The weekly fishing report is compiled from information gathered from local bait shops, angler creel surveys, and county and state parks staff. For current information, contact the district fisheries office at the phone number listed at the end of each district report.
NORTHWEST
Crawford Creek Impoundment
Crawford Creek is open. Few anglers have been out fishing.
Badger Lake
Ice went out on Badger Lake on March 21.
Brushy Creek Lake
There is very little ice left on the lake.
Bacon Creek Lake
Fifteen hundred rainbow trout were stocked January 8. Anglers need a trout stamp in addition to their regular fishing license to fish for or keep trout. Daily limit of trout is 5.
Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Storm Lake has opened up. Walleye - Fair: Anglers have been catching walleye in the marina. Try bouncing a minnow on a jig head along the bottom or float a live minnow just off the bottom with a slip bobber.
North Twin Lake
North Twin Lake is ice free.
Swan Lake
Swan Lake is ice free. There are some panfish being caught around the fish house.
Black Hawk Lake
Black Hawk Lake opened up completely March 19.
Browns Lake
Browns Lake is open. Courtesy docks are in.
Snyder Bend Lake
Snyder bend is open. Anglers have been catching channel catfish and bullheads at the north end.
Southwood Conservation Area Pond (east)
The Southwood Ponds are open. There has been little fishing activity.
North Raccoon River (above State Highway 175 bridge near Auburn)
Conditions are good for river fishing right now. Anglers are catching some nice walleyes out of the river. Target areas below rock riffles and around bridges.
All of the large lakes have opened up. There are still a few small ponds and gravel pits in the area that have some ice on them. The rivers are pretty good for fishing right now. For more information on the lakes and rivers in this area contact Ben Wallace or Don Herrig at the Black Hawk Fish Management Office in Lake View at 712-657-2638.
Clear Lake
With the recent weather, ice conditions are no longer safe. There is open water at the grade but no reports of fish biting.
For more information on fishing in the area lakes and rivers, call the Clear Lake Fisheries Office at (641) 357-3517.
Big Sioux River
Channel Catfish - Good: Fish backwaters with cut bait for best results.
Little Sioux River (state line to Linn Grove)
Northern Pike - Good: Some pike have been caught in the backwater areas of the river.
Ice conditions are no longer safe on area lakes for ice fishing. The past week of rain has deteriorated ice throughout all area lakes. Also, remember that walleye season is now closed on Big Spirit, East Okoboji, and West Okoboji until May 7. Fishing on area rivers has picked up, however, given the high water only fish backwater areas away from the current and use caution near flooded waters.
NORTHEAST
Volga Lake
Ice fishing not recommended for this body of water.
Lake Hendricks
Ice fishing not recommended for this body of water. Bluegill - No Report:
Lake Meyer
Ice fishing not recommended for this body of water. Bluegill - No Report:
Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)
Water levels on the Upper Iowa are going up at this time. Rainbow Trout - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Cedar River (above Nashua)
Water levels are on the rise and may have temporarily leveled off barring any more rain and snow melt. Northern Pike - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Decorah District Streams
Through March 19, a few clear streams produced excellent blue wing olive hatches and trout were readily taken on #16 Adams and #16 Blue Wing Quills. As of March 20, northeast Iowa streams were high and muddy due to snowmelt runoff and weekend rains. Watch out for the big Hendrickson mayflies within the next two weeks. For the spin fisher, jigs work well for this time of year. The Proposed 2011 Trout Stocking Schedule is now available on the Iowa DNR website.
Ice fishing not recommended for lakes in our area. Rivers are up. Most of the trout streams are high and off color. For more information, call the Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.
Manchester District Streams
Trout streams are in excellent condition.
Most area lakes are now open but have not received any fishing reports. Interior rivers are not advisable with current high water conditions. Trout streams in the Manchester District remain in excellent condition. Be sure to mark your calendars for the urban trout stockings occurring in Cedar Falls April 2 and in Dubuque April 9. For further information contact the Manchester District Office at 563-927-3276.
MISSISSIPPI RIVER
Mississippi River Pool 9
River level at Lansing is 10.9 and expected to rise to 13 feet by next week. The road to the New Albin ramp is under water. Boaters should still be able to access the river at Lansing. Walleye - Fair: High water is making it difficult to find fish but a few nice walleye can be caught in Minnesota Slough by those able to get out.
Mississippi River Pool 10
Tailwater stage at Lynxville is 20.4. River levels are predicted to rise to near 23 feet by next week. The road to Sny Magill is flooded. You can still access Bussey Lake but later this week it may be too difficult to launch there. Boaters will still be able to access the river at the Harpers Ferry high water ramp. Sauger - Fair: Although some nice catches of sauger have been reported over the last week, high water is making it more difficult to find fish. Walleye - Fair: Some nice walleyes have been caught but high water is making it more difficult to find fish.
Mississippi River Pool 11
Guttenberg tailwater stage is 11.8. River levels are expected to rise to near 15 feet by next week. You can still access the river at the Guttenberg City ramp but as levels come up it may be more difficult. The DNR ramp will provide access at 15 feet but parking is limited and you may have to park trailers on side streets by the DNR office. Sauger - Fair: Some sauger are being caught in the tailwater on jigs and minnows or three-way rigs, but high water is making it difficult to find fish. Walleye - Fair: Some nice walleyes have been reported, but high water is making it more difficult to find fish.
Ice has gone out of most backwaters. River levels are high and expected to rise another three feet to near or above flood stage by next week. High water may limit access to some boat ramps. With the rapid rising water boaters should be cautious of floating debris and ice.
Mississippi River Pool 12
River stage in Dubuque is 13.7 feet and is forecast to rise to 16 feet by this weekend and 17.8 feet by next Wednesday. Flood stage is 17 feet. Water clarity is fair but deteriorating, and water temperatures are in the high 30s. Sauger - Fair: Sauger fishing has been fair in the tailwater area on jigs or three-way rigs tipped with minnows or crankbaits. Walleye - Fair: Walleye fishing has been fair in the tailwater area on jigs or three-way rigs tipped with minnows or crankbaits.
Mississippi River Pool 13
River stage in Bellevue is 12.4 feet and is forecast to rise to 17.1 feet by next Wednesday. Flood stage is 17 feet. Water clarity is fair but deteriorating, and water temperatures are in the high 30s. Sauger - Fair: Sauger fishing has been fair in the tailwater area on jigs or three-way rigs tipped with crawlers, minnows, or crankbaits. Fishing will get worse as the river rises and gets more turbid. Walleye - Fair: Walleye fishing has been fair in the tailwater area on jigs or three-way rigs tipped with crawlers, minnows or crankbaits. Fishing will get worse as the river rises and gets more turbid.
Mississippi River Pool 14
River stage at Camanche is 14.3 feet and is forecast to rise to 18.3 feet by next Wednesday. Flood stage is 17 feet. Water clarity is fair but deteriorating, and water temperatures are in the high 30s. Snaggers in the tailwaters have been doing well catching paddlefish over the past couple of weeks. Remember, all paddlefish 33 inches and larger must be released. Sauger - Fair: Sauger fishing has been fair in the tailwater area on jigs or three-way rigs tipped with crawlers, minnows or crankbaits. Walleye - Fair: Walleye fishing has been fair in the tailwater area on jigs or three-way rigs tipped with crawlers, minnows, or crankbaits.
For fishing information in Pool 12-15 of the Mississippi River contact the Bellevue Fish Management and Research Station at 563-872-4976
Mississippi River Pool 16
Tailwater stage at Lock and Dam 15 is 12.13 feet and rising. With current river stage predictions, river levels at Lock and Dam 15 are forecasted to reach flood stage by Sunday. Flood stage at Lock and Dam 15 is 15 feet. Fishing has slowed down. Bluegill - No Report: Crappie - No Report: Sauger - Slow: Walleye - Slow:
Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage at Lock and Dam 16 is 10.91 feet and rising. With current river stage predictions, river level at Lock and Dam 16 is forecasted to reach flood stage by early next week. Flood stage for Lock and Dam 16 is 15 feet. The ramp at Big Timber has been closed due to high water. Fishing has been slow. Bluegill - No Report: Crappie - No Report: Sauger - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage at Lock and Dam 17 is 12.56 feet and rising. River levels are forecasted to reach flood stage during the weekend. Flood stage at Lock and Dam 17 is 15 feet. The ramp at Toolesboro has been closed due to high water. Fishing has slowed due to high water conditions. Channel Catfish - No Report: Sauger - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage at Lock and Dam 18 is 8.48 feet and rising. The river is forecasted to reach flood stage by this Friday. Flood stage at Lock and Dam 18 is 10 feet. Fishing has slowed down due to high water conditions. Sauger - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Pools 16-19: River levels are rising and expected to reach flood stage during the weekend. Some boat ramps have been closed due to high water conditions. Fishing has slowed throughout the pools due to high water conditions. For more fishing information on Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.
SOUTHEAST
Lake Geode
The lake is ice free. Very little angler activity.
Lake of the Hills
Two thousand trout were released last Saturday with more than 225 people coming out to fish. Rainbow Trout - Excellent: Spinners and corn seem to be the hot lures and many anglers are limiting out. Fly fishermen are consistently doing well also. Bluegill - Slow: There are a few bluegills being caught by anglers out enjoying the nice weather. Crappie - Slow: Anglers are picking up a few crappies around the brush piles during the warm afternoons.
Lambach Lake
This shallower lake in the West Lake Park is warming up faster than the bigger deeper lakes. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Anglers are starting to catch a few bass. Try to fish during the warmer afternoons using jigs or plastic worms working them slowly.
Wilson Lake
The lake is ice free and there have been a few anglers out enjoying the nice weather. THE SPRING TROUT STOCKING WILL BE SATURDAY, MARCH 26. ONE THOUSAND TROUT WILL BE STOCKED AT 1 p.m. Spinners and flashy lures seem to work best during the first few hours after the release.
Environmental Discovery Park North Pond
THIS SATURDAY, MARCH 26th IS THE SPRING TROUT RELEASE AT DISCOVERY PARK. Nine hundred rainbow trout and 100 brook trout will be released at 10:30 am. Rainbow Trout - Excellent: Spinners and other flashy lures will work the best right after the release. Other baits and lures start working better after the fish have calmed down.
For more information on the above lakes call the Lake Darling Fisheries Station at (319) 694-2430
Iowa Lake
The lake is ice free and the boat ramp is usable. No fishing reports are available.
Kent Park Lake
The lake is ice free and the boat ramp is open. No fishing reports are available.
Lake Macbride
The lake is ice free and all boat ramps are open. Crappie - Fair: Some anglers are having some success. East of the causeway has been producing the best.
Pleasant Creek Lake
The lake is ice free and the boat ramps are open. No fishing reports are available.
Diamond Lake
The lake is ice free and the boat ramp is open. Bluegill - Slow: Largemouth Bass - Slow:
Otter Creek Lake
The lake is ice free and the boat ramp is open. No fishing reports are available.
Coralville Reservoir
The lake is at 679.3 feet and holding. Use caution when boating at this level. Areas above Jolly Rodgers (Bobbers) are extremely shallow. Channel Catfish - Fair: Use cut shad or shad guts for best results. The upper end of the reservoir seems to be the most productive. Walleye - Slow: Use jig/twister or jig/minnow for best results. The area around I-380 bridge has been best.
Iowa River (Coralville Lake to River Junction)
As of 3/24, the flow from the "tube" is 3,500 cubic feet per second (CFS). It is predicted to jump to 4,400 CFS for the weekend, then begin to decrease next week. Walleye - Fair: A few fish are being caught on jigs. Below the dams in Iowa City have been the best areas.
Prairie Park Fishery
There will be a fishing event Saturday, March 26 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Two thousand trout will be stocked in the lake right before the event and prizes will be awarded to the anglers that catch any of the 100 tagged fish. All rules and regulations (including licenses and trout stamps) apply to this event. Be aware that Otis Road (North of Prairie Park entrance) is expected to be closed due to high water. Rainbow Trout - Excellent: Fish will be stocked Saturday morning. Use small jigs, spinners, worms, or numerous other scented baits. Brook Trout - Excellent: Fish will be stocked Saturday morning. Use small jigs, spinners, worms, or numerous other scented baits.
For more information, contact the Lake Macbride Fisheries Station at 319-624-3615.
Hawthorn Lake (aka Barnes City Lake)
The lake has been drained for a lake renovation and work has begun around the lake. New fish habitat areas are being built along with some new jetties.
Lake Sugema
The lake now has open water with all the ice melting. Fishing has been slow.
Ottumwa Lagoon
A trout stocking event was held on March 19. Trout were stocked so try using spinners, worms or other trout bait.
Rathbun Reservoir
The lake level is at 902.89 with 904.0 being normal pool. The lake has opened up. Anglers are reminded that walleyes have been tagged in Lake Rathbun and if tagged fish are caught please take the time to look under the jaw of the walleye to check for a tag. Please call the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406 with any tagged walleye information or questions.
For further fishing reports in south central Iowa call the Rathbun fish hatchery at 641-647-2406
SOUTHWEST
Des Moines River (Stratford to Saylorville Lake)
Walleye - Fair: Anglers below the Saylorville spillway were catching some good walleye during the warmer weather. The colder weather shouldn't completely stop the bite, but will slow it down until a warm up. Bounce a jig tipped with a minnow, white or chartreuse twister tail or ring worm like soft plastics through the slack water. Chartreuse twisters have been outfishing the rest. Further upstream near Boone and Fraser the river has risen high enough to flow level over the dams.
Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock)
Walleye - Good: A decent walleye bite continues below the Red Rock spillway. They are being caught throwing jigs with twisters or jigs with minnows. Anglers fishing the Center Street dam in Des Moines are also catching some walleye throwing jigs with chartreuse or white twisters.
The best fishing right now is for walleyes and catfish in the rivers below dams and spillways and along rip-rap banks. The cold weather that moved in will cool the water temps and the walleye bite for the weekend. Fishing should become good again as soon as we see a warm up. For questions on Central Iowa lakes and rivers contact Ben Dodd or Andy Otting at 515-432-2823.
Lake Anita
Anita is ice free and anglers are catching crappies in the upper arms of the lake on warm sunny days. Crappie - Fair: Earlier in the week crappies were being caught in the pontoon area with small jigs under a bobber.
Lake Manawa
Manawa is ice free and crappies are biting in the canals. Crappie - Fair: Crappie bite has slowed with cooler temperatures. They are still hitting on jigs and minnows in the canals on the west side of the lake. Many 10 inch fish are being caught.
Cold Springs District Farm Ponds
Farm ponds typically warm quickly and can provide good early season fishing. Remember to always get permission to fish private farm ponds. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Largemouth are being caught next to shore on sunny days casting small spinner baits using a slow retrieve.
Open water fishing has begun. Crappies and channel catfish can be caught in shallow bays where the water warms quickly. For more information on fishing call the S.W. District Office at (712) 769-2587.
Lake Icaria
Some windblown shoreline areas have temperatures above 45. Anglers are fishing mostly for walleye and channel catfish. Channel Catfish - Good: A lot of channel catfish are coming from the windy shoreline shallows. Walleye - Slow: Some groups are finding success while fishing the mounds and rocky areas near the dam.
Green Valley Lake
The water level is down about 9 feet for the sediment removal project. The lake is open and the main boat ramp has enough water to easily launch a boat. All sport-fish species are big biting enough to interest the angler. Channel Catfish - Good: The channel catfish are biting well on shad bait in the shallow areas where the wind is blowing into shore. Most are from 2 to 4 pounds.
Three Mile Lake
The main boat ramp is usable but some ice remains on the lake. Most of the ice should be gone by the weekend. Channel Catfish - Fair: A few real nice sized channels are being picked up from the shallow bays at the upper end. Walleye - Fair: A few males are being caught from the rocky areas near dark. Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair: Several wipers are being caught on crank-baits by walleye anglers trolling the rocky points.
Twelve Mile Creek Lake
The lake is open and the temperatures range is 40 to 50 degrees. Shoreline access is possible from any of the popular access points. Bullhead - Good: Several giant sized bullheads are being caught on crawlers at the upper end. Walleye - Fair: Several males are being caught from the rocks of the dam and the rock points and reefs.
All of the lakes are completely open. Water temperatures vary widely. Small lakes can be near 50 degrees but the bigger lakes are at or just below 40. All species of sport-fish are being caught but the success varies. Reports are coming in of very successful trips and others are not as productive.