- Joined
- Jun 16, 2010
- Location
- North Liberty, Iowa
For immediate release: May 5, 2011
Attention Anglers: If you catch a big fish this summer, be recognized as a Master Angler by the Iowa DNR! Large fish from 40 different species qualify for Master Angler designation. You’ll receive a certificate and car/boat decal when you apply. Catch five big fish over time and earn a silver Master Angler medallion, or a gold medallion for 10 fish! Complete details and an entry form can be found at: http://www.iowadnr.gov/fish/masterangler.html
P.S. You’ll also find details about the DNR’s new First Fish program on this web page, commemorating the first catch of your favorite little angler. Check it out.
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
Nelson Park Lake
8 to 10-inch bluegills were being caught out of Nelson Park earlier in the week.
Crawford Creek Impoundment
Anglers fishing earlier in the week had little luck.
Bacon Creek Lake
Anglers are still catching quite a few trout at Bacon Creek. Remember that you need to have a trout stamp in addition to your regular fishing license to fish for or possess trout.
Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Anglers are allowed three walleye per day, all fish between 17 and 22 inches must be released; only one of the three fish can be over 22 inches. Boaters should use caution on Storm Lake. The hydraulic dredge is in operation in the east basin of the lake. There is a pipeline running from the dredge to the shoreline and may rise to the surface at times. Walleye - Fair: The walleye bite on Storm Lake continues to be slow but has improved over this past week. Larger fish including those in the slot are beginning to bite. Success has been slightly better from shore but the high winds have made navigation difficult.
Swan Lake
A few small bluegills are being caught around the fish house.
Black Hawk Lake
Water temperature is in the mid 50s. Channel Catfish - Fair: Good numbers of channel catfish can be still caught on real windy days. Target the points on the north shore of the lake where there are strong currents moving around the point. Walleye - Slow: The majority of the walleye being caught right now are sub-legal fish.
Southwood Conservation Area Pond (west)
Anglers caught a lot of crappie last weekend at the Southwood Ponds. Crappie were running anywhere from 8 to 14 inches, with most of them being caught on small minnows. Some catfish were being caught as well.
Arrowhead Lake
Nice sized bluegills have been biting in the north end of Arrowhead. Some anglers have been targeting the south end.
Little Sioux River (Linn Grove to Correctionville)
A few walleye and northern pike have been caught below the Linn Grove Dam.
North Raccoon River (Auburn to Perry)
Some channel catfish are being caught out of the river.
Water temperatures have started to warm a little. Panfish are beginning to bite at some of the smaller ponds. For more information on lakes and rivers in this area contact Ben Wallace or Don Herrig at the Black Hawk District Office in Lake View at 712-657-2638.
Clear Lake
Walleye are being caught from the east shore in the evening using minnows or plastics on a jig. Boat anglers have had some success fishing Billy's reef and the artificial reefs using a variety of baits. Yellow bass fishing remains slow yet, a few have been caught by the Baptist camp and in the little lake. With the increase in temperature, yellow bass fishing should start to pick up. Anglers are also catching some crappie and bluegill in the shallows on jigs.
Crystal Lake
A few anglers have reported catching panfish from shore using crawlers.
Black Pit
A few crappie and bluegill have been caught near shore using crawlers and minnows on a small jig.
Bluebill Lake
Anglers are still catching a few panfish from shore with live bait.
For more fishing information contact the Clear Lake fish and wildlife station at 641-357-3517.
Lake Pahoja
Bluegill - Good: Anglers are reporting catches of bluegill fishing with a bobber and small piece of worm. Crappie - Good: Anglers are starting to catch crappies in shallow water.
Big Spirit Lake
With the warmer temperatures, expect good catches of walleye on opening weekend! Bullhead - Fair: Some fish are starting to be caught along the north grade. Bluegill - Good: Try fishing in protected areas on sunny days by docks. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Some fish were reported last week. Try fishing along rocky shorelines and points. Crappie - Good: Crappie fishing has picked up on warmer days in protected shallow areas on the lake.
East Okoboji Lake
East Okoboji should be another lake that will have excellent catches of walleye this weekend. Try fishing rocky shorelines with a jig and minnow. White Bass - Good: Anglers are catching white bass on the north side of the lake, the Hwy. 9 Bridge, and along the west shoreline near Hwy. 71. Yellow Bass - Good: Some yellow bass are being reported while fishing rocky shorelines for white bass. On sunny calm days the bite can be excellent.
Silver Lake (****inson)
Bullhead - Good: Anglers are reporting catches of bullhead at inlet areas of the lake. Yellow Perch - Good: Try fishing along sandy shorelines in the early morning and at sunset. This lake has many yellow perch up to 12 inches.
West Okoboji Lake
Bluegill - Good: Try fishing along docks in shallow bays with a small jig and piece of worm or wax worm.
Little Sioux River (state line to Linn Grove)
Walleye - Good: Try using a jig and minnow with slow presentation.
Fishing has picked up with the warmer weather; however windy days are making it difficult to fish many area lakes. Saturday morning, May 7th, at 12:01 a.m. walleye season officially opens on Big Spirit, East Okoboji, and West Okoboji. For more information on fishing in northwest Iowa, contact the regional office in Spirit Lake at 712-336-1840.
NORTHEAST
Volga Lake
Recent weather has slowed some angling activity. Crappie - Slow:
Lake Hendricks
A few anglers have been out but not much action is happening. Bluegill - Slow: Largemouth Bass - Good: Best luck on bass is using artificial lures. Crappie - Slow: Anglers are using wax worms with some luck.
Lake Meyer
Water temperature is still cool and fish activity is slow.
Upper Iowa River (above Decorah)
Water levels around Decorah have dropped nicely and are about normal for this time of year. Water clarity is excellent and temperature is still cold. Fish activity is slow. Sucker - Slow: Anglers should try using a slip bobber and a hook tipped with a worm. Walleye - Slow: Anglers have been catching walleye using a jig tipped with a long piece of nightcrawlers retrieved slowly.
Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)
Water levels have dropped nicely. Water is clear but cool. Sucker - Slow: Northern Pike - No Report: Smallmouth Bass - No Report: Yellow Perch - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Wapsi River (state line to Tripoli)
We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.
Cedar River (above Nashua)
Water levels have gradually gone down this week and water clarity is good. Water temperature remains cool but should warm with better weather this week. Northern Pike - Slow: Anglers have been catching pike while fishing for catfish. Channel Catfish - Slow: Best success for bait for cats in the Cedar now is using a dead chub or frog fished off the bottom. Walleye - No Report:
Decorah District Streams
Northeast Iowa trout streams are fishing well. Blue Wing Olive hatches remain very good, and caddis hatches are picking up as the weather warms. Trout have been taken on #14 and #16 Deer or Elk Hair caddis patterns fished alone or with small nymph or wet fly droppers. A #16 Adams also remains productive. For stocking information, call 563-927-5736 or visit our website.
Area lakes continue to slowly warm and action is slow. River water levels have been steadily dropping this week and are clear. Water temperature on the rivers are running about 45 degrees. Trout streams are in excellent condition. For more information, contact the Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.
George Wyth Lake
Fishing has been slow for crappie but with the warming forecast fish should be moving into the shallow water bay areas. Crappie - Slow: Try fishing with a crappie minnow under a bobber or casting colored tube jigs.
Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
Water levels are dropping on the Cedar. Anglers have been doing well on northern pike on both the Cedar River and Shell Rock rivers. With the recent warm weather fishing should pick up for channel catfish, walleye and smallmouth bass. Channel Catfish - Good: Dead cut baits or minnows fished on the bottom in slack water areas has been productive on channel catfish. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Jigs tipped with a twister and nightcrawlers slowly retrieved off of the bottom works well. Walleye - Fair: Jig and a twister tail tipped with a minnow or nightcrawlers is productive.
Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)
The Shell Rock River continues to drop and there have been good reports of northern pike being caught. With the recent warm temperatures fishing should pick up for channel catfish, walleye and smallmouth bass. Northern Pike - Good: Cut baits have been the bait of choice.
Wapsipinicon River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)
The Wapsipinicon River is dropping in Buchanan County and the river stage is currently at 7.7 feet. With the recent warm temperatures fishing should pick up for channel catfish, walleye and smallmouth bass.
Maquoketa River (above Monticello)
There have been reports of walleye being caught on the Maquoketa River. With the recent warm temperatures fishing should pick up for channel catfish and smallmouth bass also. Walleye - Good: Jig and twister tipped with a minnow or crawler has been productive.
Manchester District Streams
Trout streams are clear once again and should be good by the weekend. Call the Manchester District Office for the most recent conditions at 563-927-3276.
The interior rivers are in good condition once again and have been providing angling opportunities for a variety of different species. Lakes have been slow to come around this spring with all of the cold weather. Trout streams in the Manchester District are running clear and should be good for the upcoming weekend. For further information contact the Manchester District Office at 563-927-3276.
MISSISSIPPI RIVER
Mississippi River Pool 9
River level at Lansing is 12.8 feet and expected to fall to near 11.5 feet over the course of the next week. Village Creek ramp is open but Army Road Ramp at New Albin is still closed. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Fish along exposed rock shorelines with current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass are hitting well but finding good shoreline to fish may take some work.
Mississippi River Pool 10
River level at Lynxville is 23.0 feet and expected to fall to near 21.5 feet over the course of the next week. Boat ramps at Harpers Ferry and Bussey Lake are open but Sny Magill is still closed. Bluegill - Fair: A few bluegills hitting in Bussey Lake. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Fish along exposed rock shoreline with current. Largemouth Bass - Good: A lot of bass hitting in the upper part of the pool below the dam and near Harpers Ferry.
Mississippi River Pool 11
River level at Guttenberg is 14.5 feet and expected to fall to near 12.5 feet over the course of the next week. Guttenberg city ramp is still closed but the DNR ramp is opened but parking is limited so those putting in may have to park on side streets. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Fish exposed rock shoreline with current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass are hitting pretty well in the upper part of the pool along shorelines. Crappie - Slow: A few crappie being reported along flooded timber in the upper part of the pool. Sauger - Fair: Sauger still biting in the tail waters. Walleye - Slow: A few walleye still being caught in the tail waters.
River levels on the Upper Mississippi have are just below flood stage in most areas and expected to fall slowly over the next week. Some boat ramps are beginning to open up but many others are still flooded or closed for clean up. Boaters should be cautious of floating debris and be conscious of their boat wake and potential damage to shorelines and private property. Water temperature is 48 degrees.
Mississippi River Pool 12
River stage at Dubuque is 17.03 feet and is forecast to start dropping over the weekend and be at 14.7 feet on Wednesday. Flood stage is 17 feet. Water clarity is fair and water temperatures are in the low 50s. The ramp at Massey Marina Park is currently underwater but should be usable by sometime next week.
Mississippi River Pool 13
River stage at Bellevue is 15.4 feet and is forecast to start dropping over the weekend and be at 14.1 feet on Wednesday. Water clarity is fair and water temperature is in the low 50s. The ramps at Mill Creek Park and Pleasant Creek are currently underwater.
Mississippi River Pool 14
River stage at Camanche is 17.1 feet and is forecast to start dropping next Monday and be at 16 feet on Wednesday. Flood stage is 17 feet. Water clarity is fair and water temperatures are in the low 50s. Most ramps in Pool 14 are still closed due to high water.
For fishing information in Pool 12 to 15 of the Mississippi River contact the Bellevue Fish Management and Research Station at 563-872-4976
Mississippi River Pool 16
Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 15 is 15.98 feet and falling. Flood stage is 15 feet. Fishing has been slow due to the high water conditions. Channel Catfish - No Report: White Bass - No Report: Bluegill - No Report: Crappie - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Mississippi River Pool 17
Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 16 is 15.95 feet and falling. Flood stage is 15 feet. Fishing has been slow due to the high water conditions. Channel Catfish - No Report: White Bass - No Report: Bluegill - No Report: Crappie - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Mississippi River Pool 18
Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 17 is 17.47 feet and falling. Flood stage is 15 feet. Fishing has been slow due to the high water conditions. Channel Catfish - No Report: White Bass - No Report: Bluegill - No Report: Crappie - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Mississippi River Pool 19
Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 18 is 13.13 feet and falling. Flood stage is 10 feet. Fishing has been slow due to the high water conditions. Channel Catfish - No Report: White Bass - No Report: Bluegill - No Report: Crappie - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Pools 16 to 19: River stage is still above flood stage throughout the pools. Boat ramps are under water throughout the pools. Fishing has been slow due to the high water conditions. Most fishing reports are coming from area lakes and ponds. Main channel water temperature is around 52 degrees. For more fishing information on Pools 16 to 19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.
SOUTHEAST
Lake Odessa
The ramps at Odessa remain underwater. The flood waters don't seem to have done any significant damage to the levee just washed away some of the sand off the levee. The Toolesboro Road is remains closed but the water is no longer going over the spillway. As the river level goes down so will the level in Odessa.
Lake Geode
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Anglers have been catching some nice largemouth bass along the weed lines during the warmer afternoons.
Lake Belva Deer
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Target the bass in the shallow water during the warmer afternoons; the mornings are just too cold for them to be very active. Use crankbaits worked slowly. Crappie - Fair: A few anglers are picking up crappies along the old creek channel in 8 to 10 feet of water using tube jigs tipped with minnows.
Lake of the Hills
Rainbow Trout - Good: Fish the areas where water is flowing into the lake. Trout are still hitting on a variety of baits. Remember you need a trout fee to fish for them. Channel Catfish - Slow: Catfish are starting to bite on chicken liver and anglers are also having limited success using stink baits. Concentrate your efforts on the warmer afternoons.
Wilson Lake
Plenty of trout remain to be caught. Remember you need a trout fee to fish for them. Rainbow Trout - Excellent: Trout are being caught on small jigs, flies, and a variety of small spinners. A worm on a hook 2 to 3 feet below a bobber is also working. Largemouth Bass - Good: A lot of small bass are being caught while people are fishing for trout.
Skunk River (Coppock to Mississippi River)
The river is finally starting to go down slowly. It is still about three-fourths bank full. Very little fishing.
Iowa River (Columbus Junction to Mississippi River)
The Iowa at Wapello is just below flood stage and is forecast to start dropping slowly during the next few days.
Big Hollow Lake
This new lake in Des Moines County is starting to get some attention from the anglers. Go to the Des Moines County Conservation Board Website for more details about its location and a contour map of the lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Average size is 10 to 14 inches. Nightcrawlers fishing around the creek channel and gully bottoms are where I would start. Bluegill - Fair: The bluegills are being found around the jetties and shallow timber. Worm and bobber seem to be working the best. Largemouth Bass - Excellent: While these fish are running just below the legal length they are lots of them and they're hungry. Spend your fishing efforts during the sunny afternoons in the shallow bays and terraces around the islands where the water will be a little warmer.
For more information on the above rivers and lakes call the Lake Darling fisheries office at 319-694-2430.
Iowa Lake
Bluegill - Fair: Crappie - Slow:
Kent Park Lake
Some bass and bluegills are being caught in the ponds, but the lake has been pretty slow yet.
Lake Macbride
Any sized motor may be used at no wake speed at this time. Water temperature is in the low 50s. Crappie - Fair: Fish in the 9 to 12-inch range are common. Fish around submerged brush/trees with a slip bobber/minnow or jig. The upper ends of the lake have been the warmest and most productive. Walleye - Fair: Some fish have been caught jigging over structure, and some fish have been caught trolling crankbaits. Most fish are in the 14 to 18-inch range.
Diamond Lake
Remember, minnows are not allowed here. Bluegill - Good: Fish around brush piles. Use a small jig or small worm under a bobber. Crappie - Good: Size has been a bit small (8 inches) but numbers are good. During the warm weather, fish have been caught right along the shoreline on small tube jigs.
Otter Creek Lake
Fishing has been poor here lately.
Union Grove Lake
Bluegill - Good: Fish around wood and brush with a small worm or jig. Crappie - Fair: Fish around brush and rock. On warmer days, fish shallower water. Use a small jig or minnow.
Coralville Reservoir
The current lake level as of May 5 is 690 feet. Current predictions show the lake falling approximately one-half foot per day. Channel Catfish - Fair: Anglers are still catching catfish on cut bait and some on nightcrawlers. The upper end of the lake has still been best. Anglers have also been trying in the feeder creeks and where creeks enter the lake.
Iowa River (Coralville Lake to River Junction)
Current flows coming out of Coralville Reservoir are 6,000 cubic feet per second and are predicted to remain at this flow until May 10, when the flows will be gradually reduced each day. Channel Catfish - Slow: The bite has slowed a bit due to water temperature and changes in water flow. White Bass - Fair: Try jigs or small crankbaits. Walleye - Fair: Jigs and crankbaits have been producing a few fish.
Wapsi River (Troy Mills to Oxford Junction)
Walleye - Fair:
Maquoketa (Hopkinton to Canton)
Walleye - Fair:
For more information, contact the Lake Macbride fisheries station at 319-624-3615.
Red Haw Lake
Bluegill - Fair: Use small jigs fished along shoreline structure and around submerged structure in 6 to 10 feet of water. These fish will continue to move shallow at the water temperature rises. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use rubber worms along the shoreline structure.
Hawthorn Lake (aka Barnes City Lake)
The lake had been drained for a lake renovation but work is now complete. New fish habitat areas have been built along with some new jetties. The gate has been closed and the lake is now starting to fill. As of May 4, the lake was approximately one-third full. The boat ramps are still not usable.
Lake Miami
Channel Catfish - Slow: Anglers have been having some success in the evenings using cut bait or dead chubs. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Try using jig n' pig combos or spinner baits in 2 to 8 feet of water around submerged structure.
Lake Sugema
The water temperature is in the low 50s. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Some nice bass are being caught. Use a jig n' pig combo or try slow rolling spinner baits. Fish areas with submerged structure.
Ottumwa Lagoon
Trout were stocked on March 19. Try using spinners, worms, or other trout bait. Remember you need a trout fee in addition to fish for or possess trout.
Rathbun Reservoir
The lake level is at 905.81 feet with 904.0 feet being normal pool. Water temperature has been in the low to mid 50s. Fishing has been slow with the cool water. Warmer water will help improve fishing. Crappie anglers should try deeper water areas first and then move shallow as the water temperature rises. Anglers are reminded that walleyes have been tagged in Lake Rathbun and if tagged fish are caught please report the tag to the hatchery at 641-647-2406.
For further fishing reports in south central Iowa call the Rathbun fish hatchery at 641-647-2406
SOUTHWEST
Rock Creek Lake
Crappie - Fair: Rock Creek water temperature is in the mid 50s. Crappies have not moved shallow yet, but some anglers are having fair success drifting minnows or panfish jigs in 8 feet of water. Look for crappie to start moving shallow over the weekend.
Roberts Creek Lake
Crappie - Fair: The crappie spawn at Roberts Creek is just around the corner. A few fish are starting to be caught shallow on minnows. The crappie population in Roberts Creek is strong right now and should provide some excellent fishing this spring.
Big Creek Lake
Crappie - Slow: With water temperature staying around 55 degrees, the crappie have not moved shallow yet for the spawn. Temperatures near 80 predicted for over the weekend will help. Only a few crappie are being caught over deeper brush piles. Walleye - Fair: Walleye are being caught on jigs, soft swim baits, crankbaits, and minnows. The fish are being caught in the east ramp bay, the dam, and any jetties on the south half of the lake. Most fish being caught are sublegal, but fish over 15 inches are coming in.
Lake Ahquabi
Bluegill - Fair: Anglers fishing the brush piles near the fishing shelter are doing well on bluegills and also picking up a few crappie. Boat anglers targeting the dam area and northwest shore are having similar success.
Des Moines River (Stratford to Saylorville Lake)
White Bass - Good: Anglers continue to catch good numbers of white bass and an occasional wiper below the Saylorville Reservoir. The backwater ponds below Saylorville are producing a variety species including white bass, crappie, and northern pike.
Warmer weather is arriving for the weekend and should warm most central Iowa lakes enough to start the crappie spawn. Water temperatures are currently in the low to mid 50s, but should reach the 60s over the weekend. Farm ponds are already a little warmer and providing some good crappie and bluegill fishing. For information on central Iowa lakes and rivers contact Ben Dodd or Andy Otting at 515-432-2823.
Greenfield Lake
Greenfield has one concrete boat ramp and is trolling motor only. Lake is full. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Largemouth bass are being caught using jigs in the cedar tree piles and along the dam. Crappie - Fair: Crappies have picked up along the dam using small jigs. Sorting is necessary for larger fish.
Nodaway Lake
Nodaway has one concrete boat ramp. Crappie bite has improved. Fish the dam and rocky shoreline on south side of lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Catfish are being caught in the upper end of the lake using dead minnows. Crappie - Fair: Crappies up to 8 inches are being caught on the dam casting small jigs.
Lake Anita
The crappie bite has improved. Fish the north arm around the pontoons and around the jetties. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Largemouth bass are being caught along the road beds and in brush piles. Crappie - Good: Crappies up to 10 inches are being caught on jigs under a bobber.
Willow Lake
Willow lake has one concrete boat ramp and excellent water clarity. Bluegill and crappie have been fairly steady around the bridge and jetties. Fish close to structure and as deep as possible using worms or small casting jigs. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills are being caught using worms around jetties. Fish are up to 8 inches. Crappie - Fair: Crappies up to 9 inches are being caught along the dam and around jetties.
Viking Lake
Viking Lake fish populations are coming back following the 2006 renovation. The lake has three concrete boat ramps and good water quality. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are being caught using dead minnows. Fish average 2 to 3 pounds. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Largemouth bass up to 18 inches are being caught around cedar tree piles using plastic baits.
Lake Manawa
Crappie fishing on the west side of the lake is good. The canals have been producing the most fish. Catfish are biting on dead minnows. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are being caught on the windy shorelines using dead minnows. Crappie - Good: Crappies up to 12 inches are being caught on jigs and minnows in the canals and around docks.
Cold Springs District Farm Ponds
Farm ponds typically warm quickly and can provide good early season fishing. Larger ponds with crappie populations are good now as crappies are close to shore preparing to spawn. Remember to always get permission to fish private farm ponds. Bluegill - Slow: Bluegill fishing has been slow with the cool water. Try fishing deep structure with small jigs and a slow retrieve. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Largemouth are being caught next to shore on sunny days casting small spinner baits using a slow retrieve. Crappie - Fair: Cast small jigs alone dam for best success.
Fishing has improved with warmer weather. Water temperatures are in the upper 50s on most water bodies. Farm ponds temperatures are above 60 degrees. For more information on fishing call the southwest district office in Lewis at 712-769-2587.
Lake Icaria
The lake level is normal, the water temperature is in the upper 50s and clarity is good. Angling activity is increasing. Channel Catfish - Fair: A few channel catfish are starting to be caught from the shoreline areas beside the jetties during the evenings. Crappie - Fair: A few anglers are finding crappie just off shore.
Fogle Lake S.W.A.
Water temperature is near 60 degrees and clarity is good. The bite is picking up fast. Crappie - Fair: Some nice crappie are being caught out from the dam and down about 8 feet during the evenings.
Lake of Three Fires
Water temperature is about 60 degrees. Water clarity is 3 feet at the dam. Crappie - Fair: A few crappie are being caught from the deeper shoreline areas of the jetties and the dam.
Green Valley Lake
The lake level is down 9 feet for a sediment removal project. The main concrete ramp is operational and accessible. The lake has a lot of nice sized fish of all species. The water temperature is in the upper 50s. Water clarity is good. Channel Catfish - Fair: A few channel catfish are biting near shore on crawlers or stink baits.
Three Mile Lake
The water temperature is in the middle 50s and clarity is good. Crappie - Fair: A few crappie can be caught just off shore from the steep shoreline areas. Size ranges from 8 to 11 inches. Walleye - Slow: A few walleye are biting from the old roadway between the middle ramps. The mounds and the base of the dam still hold a few fish.
Twelve Mile Creek Lake
The water temperature is in the upper 50s and clarity is very good. Most fish species are starting to bite. Bullhead - Fair: Giant bullheads are biting from above the silt dike at the upper end of the lake. Crawlers on the bottom are the most effective. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Several mid-sized bass are being caught from 5 feet of water just off-shore from the steep rocky shoreline areas. Crappie - Fair: The crappie are still out a little just off-shore of the steep shoreline areas or the dam. Walleye - Slow: The walleye have moved out to the mounds and creek channel edges.
Mt. Ayr District Farm Ponds
Several ponds are producing good panfish and largemouth angling. Water temperatures can be above 60. Crappie - Good: Anglers are finding several crappies near shore.
Water temperatures are warming back up. Small lakes and farm ponds are near 60 with the larger lakes in the middle 50s. the bite has picked up most everywhere. Water clarity is still good at most lakes.
Attention Anglers: If you catch a big fish this summer, be recognized as a Master Angler by the Iowa DNR! Large fish from 40 different species qualify for Master Angler designation. You’ll receive a certificate and car/boat decal when you apply. Catch five big fish over time and earn a silver Master Angler medallion, or a gold medallion for 10 fish! Complete details and an entry form can be found at: http://www.iowadnr.gov/fish/masterangler.html
P.S. You’ll also find details about the DNR’s new First Fish program on this web page, commemorating the first catch of your favorite little angler. Check it out.
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
Nelson Park Lake
8 to 10-inch bluegills were being caught out of Nelson Park earlier in the week.
Crawford Creek Impoundment
Anglers fishing earlier in the week had little luck.
Bacon Creek Lake
Anglers are still catching quite a few trout at Bacon Creek. Remember that you need to have a trout stamp in addition to your regular fishing license to fish for or possess trout.
Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Anglers are allowed three walleye per day, all fish between 17 and 22 inches must be released; only one of the three fish can be over 22 inches. Boaters should use caution on Storm Lake. The hydraulic dredge is in operation in the east basin of the lake. There is a pipeline running from the dredge to the shoreline and may rise to the surface at times. Walleye - Fair: The walleye bite on Storm Lake continues to be slow but has improved over this past week. Larger fish including those in the slot are beginning to bite. Success has been slightly better from shore but the high winds have made navigation difficult.
Swan Lake
A few small bluegills are being caught around the fish house.
Black Hawk Lake
Water temperature is in the mid 50s. Channel Catfish - Fair: Good numbers of channel catfish can be still caught on real windy days. Target the points on the north shore of the lake where there are strong currents moving around the point. Walleye - Slow: The majority of the walleye being caught right now are sub-legal fish.
Southwood Conservation Area Pond (west)
Anglers caught a lot of crappie last weekend at the Southwood Ponds. Crappie were running anywhere from 8 to 14 inches, with most of them being caught on small minnows. Some catfish were being caught as well.
Arrowhead Lake
Nice sized bluegills have been biting in the north end of Arrowhead. Some anglers have been targeting the south end.
Little Sioux River (Linn Grove to Correctionville)
A few walleye and northern pike have been caught below the Linn Grove Dam.
North Raccoon River (Auburn to Perry)
Some channel catfish are being caught out of the river.
Water temperatures have started to warm a little. Panfish are beginning to bite at some of the smaller ponds. For more information on lakes and rivers in this area contact Ben Wallace or Don Herrig at the Black Hawk District Office in Lake View at 712-657-2638.
Clear Lake
Walleye are being caught from the east shore in the evening using minnows or plastics on a jig. Boat anglers have had some success fishing Billy's reef and the artificial reefs using a variety of baits. Yellow bass fishing remains slow yet, a few have been caught by the Baptist camp and in the little lake. With the increase in temperature, yellow bass fishing should start to pick up. Anglers are also catching some crappie and bluegill in the shallows on jigs.
Crystal Lake
A few anglers have reported catching panfish from shore using crawlers.
Black Pit
A few crappie and bluegill have been caught near shore using crawlers and minnows on a small jig.
Bluebill Lake
Anglers are still catching a few panfish from shore with live bait.
For more fishing information contact the Clear Lake fish and wildlife station at 641-357-3517.
Lake Pahoja
Bluegill - Good: Anglers are reporting catches of bluegill fishing with a bobber and small piece of worm. Crappie - Good: Anglers are starting to catch crappies in shallow water.
Big Spirit Lake
With the warmer temperatures, expect good catches of walleye on opening weekend! Bullhead - Fair: Some fish are starting to be caught along the north grade. Bluegill - Good: Try fishing in protected areas on sunny days by docks. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Some fish were reported last week. Try fishing along rocky shorelines and points. Crappie - Good: Crappie fishing has picked up on warmer days in protected shallow areas on the lake.
East Okoboji Lake
East Okoboji should be another lake that will have excellent catches of walleye this weekend. Try fishing rocky shorelines with a jig and minnow. White Bass - Good: Anglers are catching white bass on the north side of the lake, the Hwy. 9 Bridge, and along the west shoreline near Hwy. 71. Yellow Bass - Good: Some yellow bass are being reported while fishing rocky shorelines for white bass. On sunny calm days the bite can be excellent.
Silver Lake (****inson)
Bullhead - Good: Anglers are reporting catches of bullhead at inlet areas of the lake. Yellow Perch - Good: Try fishing along sandy shorelines in the early morning and at sunset. This lake has many yellow perch up to 12 inches.
West Okoboji Lake
Bluegill - Good: Try fishing along docks in shallow bays with a small jig and piece of worm or wax worm.
Little Sioux River (state line to Linn Grove)
Walleye - Good: Try using a jig and minnow with slow presentation.
Fishing has picked up with the warmer weather; however windy days are making it difficult to fish many area lakes. Saturday morning, May 7th, at 12:01 a.m. walleye season officially opens on Big Spirit, East Okoboji, and West Okoboji. For more information on fishing in northwest Iowa, contact the regional office in Spirit Lake at 712-336-1840.
NORTHEAST
Volga Lake
Recent weather has slowed some angling activity. Crappie - Slow:
Lake Hendricks
A few anglers have been out but not much action is happening. Bluegill - Slow: Largemouth Bass - Good: Best luck on bass is using artificial lures. Crappie - Slow: Anglers are using wax worms with some luck.
Lake Meyer
Water temperature is still cool and fish activity is slow.
Upper Iowa River (above Decorah)
Water levels around Decorah have dropped nicely and are about normal for this time of year. Water clarity is excellent and temperature is still cold. Fish activity is slow. Sucker - Slow: Anglers should try using a slip bobber and a hook tipped with a worm. Walleye - Slow: Anglers have been catching walleye using a jig tipped with a long piece of nightcrawlers retrieved slowly.
Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)
Water levels have dropped nicely. Water is clear but cool. Sucker - Slow: Northern Pike - No Report: Smallmouth Bass - No Report: Yellow Perch - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Wapsi River (state line to Tripoli)
We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.
Cedar River (above Nashua)
Water levels have gradually gone down this week and water clarity is good. Water temperature remains cool but should warm with better weather this week. Northern Pike - Slow: Anglers have been catching pike while fishing for catfish. Channel Catfish - Slow: Best success for bait for cats in the Cedar now is using a dead chub or frog fished off the bottom. Walleye - No Report:
Decorah District Streams
Northeast Iowa trout streams are fishing well. Blue Wing Olive hatches remain very good, and caddis hatches are picking up as the weather warms. Trout have been taken on #14 and #16 Deer or Elk Hair caddis patterns fished alone or with small nymph or wet fly droppers. A #16 Adams also remains productive. For stocking information, call 563-927-5736 or visit our website.
Area lakes continue to slowly warm and action is slow. River water levels have been steadily dropping this week and are clear. Water temperature on the rivers are running about 45 degrees. Trout streams are in excellent condition. For more information, contact the Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.
George Wyth Lake
Fishing has been slow for crappie but with the warming forecast fish should be moving into the shallow water bay areas. Crappie - Slow: Try fishing with a crappie minnow under a bobber or casting colored tube jigs.
Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
Water levels are dropping on the Cedar. Anglers have been doing well on northern pike on both the Cedar River and Shell Rock rivers. With the recent warm weather fishing should pick up for channel catfish, walleye and smallmouth bass. Channel Catfish - Good: Dead cut baits or minnows fished on the bottom in slack water areas has been productive on channel catfish. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Jigs tipped with a twister and nightcrawlers slowly retrieved off of the bottom works well. Walleye - Fair: Jig and a twister tail tipped with a minnow or nightcrawlers is productive.
Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)
The Shell Rock River continues to drop and there have been good reports of northern pike being caught. With the recent warm temperatures fishing should pick up for channel catfish, walleye and smallmouth bass. Northern Pike - Good: Cut baits have been the bait of choice.
Wapsipinicon River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)
The Wapsipinicon River is dropping in Buchanan County and the river stage is currently at 7.7 feet. With the recent warm temperatures fishing should pick up for channel catfish, walleye and smallmouth bass.
Maquoketa River (above Monticello)
There have been reports of walleye being caught on the Maquoketa River. With the recent warm temperatures fishing should pick up for channel catfish and smallmouth bass also. Walleye - Good: Jig and twister tipped with a minnow or crawler has been productive.
Manchester District Streams
Trout streams are clear once again and should be good by the weekend. Call the Manchester District Office for the most recent conditions at 563-927-3276.
The interior rivers are in good condition once again and have been providing angling opportunities for a variety of different species. Lakes have been slow to come around this spring with all of the cold weather. Trout streams in the Manchester District are running clear and should be good for the upcoming weekend. For further information contact the Manchester District Office at 563-927-3276.
MISSISSIPPI RIVER
Mississippi River Pool 9
River level at Lansing is 12.8 feet and expected to fall to near 11.5 feet over the course of the next week. Village Creek ramp is open but Army Road Ramp at New Albin is still closed. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Fish along exposed rock shorelines with current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass are hitting well but finding good shoreline to fish may take some work.
Mississippi River Pool 10
River level at Lynxville is 23.0 feet and expected to fall to near 21.5 feet over the course of the next week. Boat ramps at Harpers Ferry and Bussey Lake are open but Sny Magill is still closed. Bluegill - Fair: A few bluegills hitting in Bussey Lake. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Fish along exposed rock shoreline with current. Largemouth Bass - Good: A lot of bass hitting in the upper part of the pool below the dam and near Harpers Ferry.
Mississippi River Pool 11
River level at Guttenberg is 14.5 feet and expected to fall to near 12.5 feet over the course of the next week. Guttenberg city ramp is still closed but the DNR ramp is opened but parking is limited so those putting in may have to park on side streets. Smallmouth Bass - Fair: Fish exposed rock shoreline with current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Bass are hitting pretty well in the upper part of the pool along shorelines. Crappie - Slow: A few crappie being reported along flooded timber in the upper part of the pool. Sauger - Fair: Sauger still biting in the tail waters. Walleye - Slow: A few walleye still being caught in the tail waters.
River levels on the Upper Mississippi have are just below flood stage in most areas and expected to fall slowly over the next week. Some boat ramps are beginning to open up but many others are still flooded or closed for clean up. Boaters should be cautious of floating debris and be conscious of their boat wake and potential damage to shorelines and private property. Water temperature is 48 degrees.
Mississippi River Pool 12
River stage at Dubuque is 17.03 feet and is forecast to start dropping over the weekend and be at 14.7 feet on Wednesday. Flood stage is 17 feet. Water clarity is fair and water temperatures are in the low 50s. The ramp at Massey Marina Park is currently underwater but should be usable by sometime next week.
Mississippi River Pool 13
River stage at Bellevue is 15.4 feet and is forecast to start dropping over the weekend and be at 14.1 feet on Wednesday. Water clarity is fair and water temperature is in the low 50s. The ramps at Mill Creek Park and Pleasant Creek are currently underwater.
Mississippi River Pool 14
River stage at Camanche is 17.1 feet and is forecast to start dropping next Monday and be at 16 feet on Wednesday. Flood stage is 17 feet. Water clarity is fair and water temperatures are in the low 50s. Most ramps in Pool 14 are still closed due to high water.
For fishing information in Pool 12 to 15 of the Mississippi River contact the Bellevue Fish Management and Research Station at 563-872-4976
Mississippi River Pool 16
Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 15 is 15.98 feet and falling. Flood stage is 15 feet. Fishing has been slow due to the high water conditions. Channel Catfish - No Report: White Bass - No Report: Bluegill - No Report: Crappie - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Mississippi River Pool 17
Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 16 is 15.95 feet and falling. Flood stage is 15 feet. Fishing has been slow due to the high water conditions. Channel Catfish - No Report: White Bass - No Report: Bluegill - No Report: Crappie - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Mississippi River Pool 18
Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 17 is 17.47 feet and falling. Flood stage is 15 feet. Fishing has been slow due to the high water conditions. Channel Catfish - No Report: White Bass - No Report: Bluegill - No Report: Crappie - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Mississippi River Pool 19
Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 18 is 13.13 feet and falling. Flood stage is 10 feet. Fishing has been slow due to the high water conditions. Channel Catfish - No Report: White Bass - No Report: Bluegill - No Report: Crappie - No Report: Walleye - No Report:
Pools 16 to 19: River stage is still above flood stage throughout the pools. Boat ramps are under water throughout the pools. Fishing has been slow due to the high water conditions. Most fishing reports are coming from area lakes and ponds. Main channel water temperature is around 52 degrees. For more fishing information on Pools 16 to 19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.
SOUTHEAST
Lake Odessa
The ramps at Odessa remain underwater. The flood waters don't seem to have done any significant damage to the levee just washed away some of the sand off the levee. The Toolesboro Road is remains closed but the water is no longer going over the spillway. As the river level goes down so will the level in Odessa.
Lake Geode
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Anglers have been catching some nice largemouth bass along the weed lines during the warmer afternoons.
Lake Belva Deer
Largemouth Bass - Fair: Target the bass in the shallow water during the warmer afternoons; the mornings are just too cold for them to be very active. Use crankbaits worked slowly. Crappie - Fair: A few anglers are picking up crappies along the old creek channel in 8 to 10 feet of water using tube jigs tipped with minnows.
Lake of the Hills
Rainbow Trout - Good: Fish the areas where water is flowing into the lake. Trout are still hitting on a variety of baits. Remember you need a trout fee to fish for them. Channel Catfish - Slow: Catfish are starting to bite on chicken liver and anglers are also having limited success using stink baits. Concentrate your efforts on the warmer afternoons.
Wilson Lake
Plenty of trout remain to be caught. Remember you need a trout fee to fish for them. Rainbow Trout - Excellent: Trout are being caught on small jigs, flies, and a variety of small spinners. A worm on a hook 2 to 3 feet below a bobber is also working. Largemouth Bass - Good: A lot of small bass are being caught while people are fishing for trout.
Skunk River (Coppock to Mississippi River)
The river is finally starting to go down slowly. It is still about three-fourths bank full. Very little fishing.
Iowa River (Columbus Junction to Mississippi River)
The Iowa at Wapello is just below flood stage and is forecast to start dropping slowly during the next few days.
Big Hollow Lake
This new lake in Des Moines County is starting to get some attention from the anglers. Go to the Des Moines County Conservation Board Website for more details about its location and a contour map of the lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Average size is 10 to 14 inches. Nightcrawlers fishing around the creek channel and gully bottoms are where I would start. Bluegill - Fair: The bluegills are being found around the jetties and shallow timber. Worm and bobber seem to be working the best. Largemouth Bass - Excellent: While these fish are running just below the legal length they are lots of them and they're hungry. Spend your fishing efforts during the sunny afternoons in the shallow bays and terraces around the islands where the water will be a little warmer.
For more information on the above rivers and lakes call the Lake Darling fisheries office at 319-694-2430.
Iowa Lake
Bluegill - Fair: Crappie - Slow:
Kent Park Lake
Some bass and bluegills are being caught in the ponds, but the lake has been pretty slow yet.
Lake Macbride
Any sized motor may be used at no wake speed at this time. Water temperature is in the low 50s. Crappie - Fair: Fish in the 9 to 12-inch range are common. Fish around submerged brush/trees with a slip bobber/minnow or jig. The upper ends of the lake have been the warmest and most productive. Walleye - Fair: Some fish have been caught jigging over structure, and some fish have been caught trolling crankbaits. Most fish are in the 14 to 18-inch range.
Diamond Lake
Remember, minnows are not allowed here. Bluegill - Good: Fish around brush piles. Use a small jig or small worm under a bobber. Crappie - Good: Size has been a bit small (8 inches) but numbers are good. During the warm weather, fish have been caught right along the shoreline on small tube jigs.
Otter Creek Lake
Fishing has been poor here lately.
Union Grove Lake
Bluegill - Good: Fish around wood and brush with a small worm or jig. Crappie - Fair: Fish around brush and rock. On warmer days, fish shallower water. Use a small jig or minnow.
Coralville Reservoir
The current lake level as of May 5 is 690 feet. Current predictions show the lake falling approximately one-half foot per day. Channel Catfish - Fair: Anglers are still catching catfish on cut bait and some on nightcrawlers. The upper end of the lake has still been best. Anglers have also been trying in the feeder creeks and where creeks enter the lake.
Iowa River (Coralville Lake to River Junction)
Current flows coming out of Coralville Reservoir are 6,000 cubic feet per second and are predicted to remain at this flow until May 10, when the flows will be gradually reduced each day. Channel Catfish - Slow: The bite has slowed a bit due to water temperature and changes in water flow. White Bass - Fair: Try jigs or small crankbaits. Walleye - Fair: Jigs and crankbaits have been producing a few fish.
Wapsi River (Troy Mills to Oxford Junction)
Walleye - Fair:
Maquoketa (Hopkinton to Canton)
Walleye - Fair:
For more information, contact the Lake Macbride fisheries station at 319-624-3615.
Red Haw Lake
Bluegill - Fair: Use small jigs fished along shoreline structure and around submerged structure in 6 to 10 feet of water. These fish will continue to move shallow at the water temperature rises. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Use rubber worms along the shoreline structure.
Hawthorn Lake (aka Barnes City Lake)
The lake had been drained for a lake renovation but work is now complete. New fish habitat areas have been built along with some new jetties. The gate has been closed and the lake is now starting to fill. As of May 4, the lake was approximately one-third full. The boat ramps are still not usable.
Lake Miami
Channel Catfish - Slow: Anglers have been having some success in the evenings using cut bait or dead chubs. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Try using jig n' pig combos or spinner baits in 2 to 8 feet of water around submerged structure.
Lake Sugema
The water temperature is in the low 50s. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Some nice bass are being caught. Use a jig n' pig combo or try slow rolling spinner baits. Fish areas with submerged structure.
Ottumwa Lagoon
Trout were stocked on March 19. Try using spinners, worms, or other trout bait. Remember you need a trout fee in addition to fish for or possess trout.
Rathbun Reservoir
The lake level is at 905.81 feet with 904.0 feet being normal pool. Water temperature has been in the low to mid 50s. Fishing has been slow with the cool water. Warmer water will help improve fishing. Crappie anglers should try deeper water areas first and then move shallow as the water temperature rises. Anglers are reminded that walleyes have been tagged in Lake Rathbun and if tagged fish are caught please report the tag to the hatchery at 641-647-2406.
For further fishing reports in south central Iowa call the Rathbun fish hatchery at 641-647-2406
SOUTHWEST
Rock Creek Lake
Crappie - Fair: Rock Creek water temperature is in the mid 50s. Crappies have not moved shallow yet, but some anglers are having fair success drifting minnows or panfish jigs in 8 feet of water. Look for crappie to start moving shallow over the weekend.
Roberts Creek Lake
Crappie - Fair: The crappie spawn at Roberts Creek is just around the corner. A few fish are starting to be caught shallow on minnows. The crappie population in Roberts Creek is strong right now and should provide some excellent fishing this spring.
Big Creek Lake
Crappie - Slow: With water temperature staying around 55 degrees, the crappie have not moved shallow yet for the spawn. Temperatures near 80 predicted for over the weekend will help. Only a few crappie are being caught over deeper brush piles. Walleye - Fair: Walleye are being caught on jigs, soft swim baits, crankbaits, and minnows. The fish are being caught in the east ramp bay, the dam, and any jetties on the south half of the lake. Most fish being caught are sublegal, but fish over 15 inches are coming in.
Lake Ahquabi
Bluegill - Fair: Anglers fishing the brush piles near the fishing shelter are doing well on bluegills and also picking up a few crappie. Boat anglers targeting the dam area and northwest shore are having similar success.
Des Moines River (Stratford to Saylorville Lake)
White Bass - Good: Anglers continue to catch good numbers of white bass and an occasional wiper below the Saylorville Reservoir. The backwater ponds below Saylorville are producing a variety species including white bass, crappie, and northern pike.
Warmer weather is arriving for the weekend and should warm most central Iowa lakes enough to start the crappie spawn. Water temperatures are currently in the low to mid 50s, but should reach the 60s over the weekend. Farm ponds are already a little warmer and providing some good crappie and bluegill fishing. For information on central Iowa lakes and rivers contact Ben Dodd or Andy Otting at 515-432-2823.
Greenfield Lake
Greenfield has one concrete boat ramp and is trolling motor only. Lake is full. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Largemouth bass are being caught using jigs in the cedar tree piles and along the dam. Crappie - Fair: Crappies have picked up along the dam using small jigs. Sorting is necessary for larger fish.
Nodaway Lake
Nodaway has one concrete boat ramp. Crappie bite has improved. Fish the dam and rocky shoreline on south side of lake. Channel Catfish - Fair: Catfish are being caught in the upper end of the lake using dead minnows. Crappie - Fair: Crappies up to 8 inches are being caught on the dam casting small jigs.
Lake Anita
The crappie bite has improved. Fish the north arm around the pontoons and around the jetties. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Largemouth bass are being caught along the road beds and in brush piles. Crappie - Good: Crappies up to 10 inches are being caught on jigs under a bobber.
Willow Lake
Willow lake has one concrete boat ramp and excellent water clarity. Bluegill and crappie have been fairly steady around the bridge and jetties. Fish close to structure and as deep as possible using worms or small casting jigs. Bluegill - Fair: Bluegills are being caught using worms around jetties. Fish are up to 8 inches. Crappie - Fair: Crappies up to 9 inches are being caught along the dam and around jetties.
Viking Lake
Viking Lake fish populations are coming back following the 2006 renovation. The lake has three concrete boat ramps and good water quality. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are being caught using dead minnows. Fish average 2 to 3 pounds. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Largemouth bass up to 18 inches are being caught around cedar tree piles using plastic baits.
Lake Manawa
Crappie fishing on the west side of the lake is good. The canals have been producing the most fish. Catfish are biting on dead minnows. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish are being caught on the windy shorelines using dead minnows. Crappie - Good: Crappies up to 12 inches are being caught on jigs and minnows in the canals and around docks.
Cold Springs District Farm Ponds
Farm ponds typically warm quickly and can provide good early season fishing. Larger ponds with crappie populations are good now as crappies are close to shore preparing to spawn. Remember to always get permission to fish private farm ponds. Bluegill - Slow: Bluegill fishing has been slow with the cool water. Try fishing deep structure with small jigs and a slow retrieve. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Largemouth are being caught next to shore on sunny days casting small spinner baits using a slow retrieve. Crappie - Fair: Cast small jigs alone dam for best success.
Fishing has improved with warmer weather. Water temperatures are in the upper 50s on most water bodies. Farm ponds temperatures are above 60 degrees. For more information on fishing call the southwest district office in Lewis at 712-769-2587.
Lake Icaria
The lake level is normal, the water temperature is in the upper 50s and clarity is good. Angling activity is increasing. Channel Catfish - Fair: A few channel catfish are starting to be caught from the shoreline areas beside the jetties during the evenings. Crappie - Fair: A few anglers are finding crappie just off shore.
Fogle Lake S.W.A.
Water temperature is near 60 degrees and clarity is good. The bite is picking up fast. Crappie - Fair: Some nice crappie are being caught out from the dam and down about 8 feet during the evenings.
Lake of Three Fires
Water temperature is about 60 degrees. Water clarity is 3 feet at the dam. Crappie - Fair: A few crappie are being caught from the deeper shoreline areas of the jetties and the dam.
Green Valley Lake
The lake level is down 9 feet for a sediment removal project. The main concrete ramp is operational and accessible. The lake has a lot of nice sized fish of all species. The water temperature is in the upper 50s. Water clarity is good. Channel Catfish - Fair: A few channel catfish are biting near shore on crawlers or stink baits.
Three Mile Lake
The water temperature is in the middle 50s and clarity is good. Crappie - Fair: A few crappie can be caught just off shore from the steep shoreline areas. Size ranges from 8 to 11 inches. Walleye - Slow: A few walleye are biting from the old roadway between the middle ramps. The mounds and the base of the dam still hold a few fish.
Twelve Mile Creek Lake
The water temperature is in the upper 50s and clarity is very good. Most fish species are starting to bite. Bullhead - Fair: Giant bullheads are biting from above the silt dike at the upper end of the lake. Crawlers on the bottom are the most effective. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Several mid-sized bass are being caught from 5 feet of water just off-shore from the steep rocky shoreline areas. Crappie - Fair: The crappie are still out a little just off-shore of the steep shoreline areas or the dam. Walleye - Slow: The walleye have moved out to the mounds and creek channel edges.
Mt. Ayr District Farm Ponds
Several ponds are producing good panfish and largemouth angling. Water temperatures can be above 60. Crappie - Good: Anglers are finding several crappies near shore.
Water temperatures are warming back up. Small lakes and farm ponds are near 60 with the larger lakes in the middle 50s. the bite has picked up most everywhere. Water clarity is still good at most lakes.
-30-