- Joined
- Jun 16, 2010
- Location
- North Liberty, Iowa
For immediate release: November 3, 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
Nelson Park Lake
Nelson Park has the invasive plant brittle naiad. Be sure to clean boat and trailer before leaving the lake to avoid spreading this species to other water bodies. Fishing has been slow for all species.
Yellow Smoke Park Lake
Yellow Smoke has the invasive plant brittle naiad. Be sure to clean boat and trailer before leaving the lake to avoid spreading this species to other water bodies. Water clarity is excellent. Fishing has been slow.
Crawford Creek Impoundment
Crawford Creek has the invasive plant brittle naiad. Be sure to clean boat and trailer before leaving the lake to avoid spreading this species to other water bodies.
Brushy Creek Lake
Bluegill and crappie are being caught in 20 to 25 feet of water on wax worms.
Bacon Creek Lake
The DNR will release 1,500 rainbow trout on Nov. 17 at 1 p.m.
Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Boaters use caution. The hydraulic dredge is in operation at Storm Lake. Stay clear of dredge barge, booster pump barge, and pipeline. 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. Fishing continues to be slow at Storm Lake. Walleye - Slow:
North Twin Lake
Anglers continue to catch good numbers of yellow bass at North Twin Lake. Most yellows are around eight inches with a few 9 and 10-inch fish mixed in. Anglers fishing the windward shoreline have had the best luck. There have been reports of walleye being caught at North Twin as well.
Swan Lake
Bluegill and crappie are biting on very small jigs tipped with a wax worm or a red worm. Bass fishing has been slow out in the deeper water.
Black Hawk Lake
Anglers are allowed three walleye per day and all walleye must be at least 15 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers have been catching medium sized bluegill in Town Bay from the south stone pier. Walleye - Slow: Anglers have been catching a few legal walleye from Ice House Point using live minnows under a bobber or casting twisters and shad raps. Some walleye have also been caught trolling shad raps.
Browns Lake
Fishing from shore has been slow.
Snyder Bend Lake
Snyder Bend has reopened. However, anglers need to be aware of the refuge boundary.
Great Western Park Lake
Great Western Park has the invasive plant brittle naiad. Be sure to clean boat and trailer before leaving the lake to avoid spreading this species to other water bodies.
Moorland Pond
The DNR will release 1,500 rainbow trout on Nov. 16 at 1 p.m.
Little Sioux River (Linn Grove to Correctionville)
Fishing around the Linn Grove Dam continues to be slow. Water temperature has been in the 40s.
Black Hawk District Farm Ponds
Bluegill and largemouth bass have been biting in the evening hours on live bait and plastics. Early morning fishing has been slow.
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.
Beeds Lake
Largemouth bass fishing has been fair, try fishing near cover.
Clear Lake
Most of the docks have been removed. Yellow bass and a few walleyes are biting drifting cut bait. Anglers are having success catching a mixed bag of fish off the jetties.
Lake Cornelia
Perch and bluegill fishing has been good. A few walleyes and channel catfish are also being caught. The docks at the boat ramp have been pulled.
Little Wall Lake
Crappie fishing is good; 6 to 8-inch crappies are being caught on tube jigs fishing off the jetty. Bluegill fishing is fair, being caught same way. Bass fair, try using crankbaits in the evenings.
Bluebill Lake
Largemouth bass are biting on minnows. Bluegill and crappie are biting on tube jigs fished in 15 to 18 feet of water.
Interstate Park Lake
A few bluegill and crappie are biting fishing from shore with a piece of crawler.
Remember to clean, drain, and dry your boat and equipment to stop the spread of invasive species. For more fishing information in the north central area contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517.
NORTHEAST
Volga Lake
Try fishing over brush piles and along the dam, especially in the afternoon. Bluegill - Slow: Largemouth Bass - Slow: Crappie - Slow:
Lake Hendricks
Few anglers have been out this week. Try around the north side of the lake among the stumps. Bluegill - Slow: Largemouth Bass - Slow: Crappie - No Report:
Lake Meyer
Few anglers have been on the lake this week. Northern Pike - No Report: Bluegill - Slow: Largemouth Bass - No Report: Crappie - Slow:
Upper Iowa River (above Decorah)
Flow is low so concentrate efforts around the deeper holes and around snags and logjams. Smallmouth Bass - Slow: Walleye - Slow: Anglers have been using crankbaits and jigs tipped with a twister tail. Also try floating worms through the deeper holes.
Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)
With low water levels, focus efforts in the deeper holes. Northern Pike - No Report: Smallmouth Bass - No Report: Walleye - Good: Try using jigs tipped with a twister tail.
Turkey River (below Clermont)
We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.
Wapsi River (state line to Tripoli)
We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.
Cedar River (above Nashua)
Fish activity has slowed dramatically this week. Northern Pike - Slow: Smallmouth Bass - Slow: Crappie - No Report: Walleye - Slow: Walleye have been hitting on jigs tipped with a minnow, worms or twistertails drifted over the deeper holes.
Decorah District Streams
#18 Blue Wing Olive hatches have remained excellent, though they are diminishing somewhat as colder weather approaches. #18 Blue Wing dry fly (on the surface or drowned) and wet fly patterns have been successful casting upstream and twitching back downstream, especially late in the day. Blue Wing nymph patterns have also been productive. These patterns can remain effective through Thanksgiving. Even though we aren't stocking catchable size fish in streams, streams still have plenty of fish.
Area rivers, lakes and trout streams are in good condition even after recent rains. Fishing opportunities are abundant this time of year as well as opportunities for viewing the annual waterfowl migration. For more information, contact Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.
MISSISSIPPI RIVER
Mississippi River Pool 9
River levels at Lansing are low at 8 feet and expected to stay at this level over the next week. Northern Pike - Fair: Pike are scattered but feeding. Many being caught on minnows along snags or in backwaters around what vegetation is left. Bluegill - Good: Majority of bluegills have moved into overwintering areas. Fish the deeper areas slowly, with small jigs and worms. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Smallmouths are feeding along rocky areas with current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Largemouth are still feeding but have moved closer to overwintering areas. Look for active fish just outside overwintering areas. Crappie - Good: Crappie are still biting in running sloughs near overwintering areas. Walleye - Good: A few more walleye are starting to be caught in Minnesota Slough on minnows and trolling with crankbaits.
Mississippi River Pool 10
River level at Lynxville is 13.2 feet and expected to stay at this level over the next week. Northern Pike - Fair: Pike are scattered but feeding. Many being caught on minnows along snags or in backwaters around what vegetation is left. Bluegill - Good: Majority of bluegills have moved into overwintering areas. Fish deeper areas and fish slow with small jigs and worms. Largemouth Bass - Good: Largemouth are still feeding but have moved closer to overwintering areas. Look for active fish just outside of overwintering areas. Crappie - Good: Crappie still biting in running sloughs near overwintering areas. Sauger - Excellent: Many 10 to 12-inch sauger being caught in the tail waters now, with a few pushing 15 inches. Walleye - Good: Walleye bite is beginning to pick up in the tail waters, most caught on simple jig and minnow rigs.
Mississippi River Pool 11
River level at Guttenberg is 5.1 feet and expected to fall slightly over the next week. Northern Pike - Fair: Pike are scattered but feeding. Many being caught on minnows along snags or in backwaters around what vegetation is left. Bluegill - Good: Majority of bluegills have moved into overwintering areas. Fish deeper areas and fish slow with small jigs and worms. Largemouth Bass - Good: Largemouth are still feeding but have moved closer to overwintering areas. Look for active fish just outside of overwintering areas. Crappie - Good: Crappie still biting in running sloughs near overwintering areas. Sauger - Excellent: Sauger biting well in the tail waters now with a lot of 10 to 12-inch fish being caught and a few up to 15 inches. Walleye - Good: A few more walleye are starting to be caught in the tail waters on minnows and trolling with crankbaits.
Fishing levels remain very low on the Upper Mississippi River Pools 9 to 11 and are expected to remain low over the next week. With low water levels boaters should take caution while loading and unloading at boat ramps as the end of some ramps have drop offs or hidden obstructions that can damage boat props or trailers. Floating vegetation may be a problem especially if casting and fishing along shorelines. Water temperatures have fallen below 50 degrees.
Mississippi River Pool 12
Water Level at Dubuque is 5.3 feet and steady. Water temperature is in the 40s. Some fall fishing can still be had. Bluegill - Excellent: Some bluegills are moving into the mouths of their winter backwater homes. Some large bluegills are being taken using simple bobber and worm rigs. Largemouth Bass - Excellent: Many large bass are being taken along brush piles and logs. Bass are really sitting along the wood in slack water areas. Bass are really packing into their over wintering backwaters right now. Crappie - Excellent: Crappies are being taken in good numbers by anglers fishing along brush piles in deeper sloughs and backwater Lakes. . Sauger - Good: Many small sauger and are being taken out of the Dubuque tail water. Anglers are mainly using a jig and minnow. Walleye - Fair: A few large walleyes in the 'slot are being reported. Slot fish between 20 and 27 inches cannot be kept.
Mississippi River Pool 13
Water Level at Guttenberg is 4.7 feet and steady. Water temperature is in the 40s. Bluegill - Good: Some bluegills are moving into the mouths of their winter backwater homes. Some large bluegills are being taken using simple bobber and worm rigs. Try fishing in Lainsville Slough (although parts are shallow) and lower Sabula Lake. Largemouth Bass - Good: Many large bass are being taken along brush piles and logs in places like Minnesota Slough. Bass are really sitting along the wood in slack water areas. Crappie - Excellent: Crappies are being taken in good numbers by anglers fishing along brush piles in deeper sloughs and backwater lakes. In Pool 13 try along Crooked Slough or Lower Sabula Lake. Sauger - Fair: Some small sauger and an occasional large walleye are being taken out of the Bellevue tail water. Anglers are mainly using a jig and minnow. Walleye - Fair: Some very large walleyes are being taken in the upper portions of Pool 13 on wing dams.
Mississippi River Pool 14
Water Level at LeClaire is 4.5 feet and steady. Water temperature is around 50 degrees. Bluegill - Good: Some bluegills are moving into the mouths of their winter backwater homes. Some large bluegills are being taken using simple bobber and worm rigs. Schrickers Lake and Rock Creek complex is a good bet! Crappie - Good: Crappies are being taken in good numbers by anglers fishing along brush piles in deeper sloughs and backwater Lakes.
Mississippi River Pool 15
We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.
River levels remain low and stable on the upper Mississippi Pools 12-15. The consistent water levels have made for good fishing as water temperatures cool into the upper 40s.
Mississippi River Pool 16
Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 15 is 5.47 feet. River conditions are still low and boaters should use caution when navigating the river. Channel Catfish - Slow: Fishing for channel catfish has been slow. Bluegill - Slow: Fishing for bluegills has been slow. Crappie - Good: Some crappies are being caught in Sunset Marina. Try fishing around the docks with a jig and minnow. Some crappies are also being caught in the backwaters. The Andalusia Island complex has been difficult to access due to the low water conditions. Sauger - Fair: Some saugers are being caught on the wing dams below the I-280 Bridge and along Credit Island. Most fish are being caught on jigs and minnows or on jigs and twister tails. There are some saugers being caught in Sylvan Slough but most of them have been on the small side. Walleye - Fair: Some walleyes are being caught on the wing dams below the I-280 Bridge and along Credit Island. Most fish are being caught on jigs and minnows or on jigs and plastics.
Mississippi River Pool 17
Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 16 is 4.11 feet. Water level is still low and boaters should use caution when navigating the river. Bluegill - Fair: Some bluegills are being caught in the backwaters on jigs and minnows or jigs and small plastics. Try fishing around brush piles. Crappie - Fair: Some crappies are being caught in the backwaters on jigs and minnows or jigs and plastics. Try fishing around brush piles. Sauger - No Report: We have received no tail water fishing reports for saugers this week.
Mississippi River Pool 18
Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 17 is 3.96 feet. River stage is still low so boaters should use caution when navigating the river. Bluegill - Fair: Some bluegills are being caught in the backwaters. Try fishing around brush piles with jigs and minnows or jigs and plastics. Crappie - Fair: Crappies are being caught in the backwaters. Try fishing with jigs and minnows or jigs and plastics around brush piles. Sauger - Fair: A few saugers are starting to be caught in the tail waters and around wing dams on jigs and minnows. Walleye - Slow: Walleye fishing has been slow.
Mississippi River Pool 19
Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 18 is 1.88 feet. River level is still low so boaters should use caution when navigating the river. Crappie - Fair: Crappies are being caught in the backwaters on jigs and minnows or jigs and plastics. Sauger - Slow: Tail water fishing for saugers has been slow.
Mississippi River Pools 16-19: Main channel water temperature is around 51 degrees and water clarity is fair. River levels are still low and boaters should use caution when navigating the river. Many of the backwaters throughout the pools have been difficult to access due to the low water conditions. Remember to clean, drain, and dry your boat before going to another water body. For more fishing information on Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.
SOUTHEAST
Lake Belva Deer
The south ramp remains closed for construction but will be reopened soon. Bluegill - Fair: There are a few anglers still out. Look for the bluegills to be between 6 to 8 feet deep.
Lake of the Hills
The DNR released 1,800 rainbow trout on Oct. 22. Rainbow Trout - Excellent: Anglers are quickly catching limits using wax worms and artificial lures. If you can find a school you can do very well. Channel Catfish - Good: With the nice sunny days the catfishing has picked back up. Target the shallow bays on afternoons when the sun is out. Crappie - Good: Live minnows are producing crappies off the fishing dock area as well as the brush piles. Remember, Lake of the Hills is the only lake in West Lake Park where live minnows can be used as bait.
Railroad Lake
Channel Catfish - Good: Fish has improved since last week along the old creek channel using liver, dip baits, or night crawlers. Bluegill - Fair: Try where Bluegrass Lake dumps into Railroad, especially after the recent rains. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Nice fish are being caught off the timber and along the rocks. Crappie - Good: Anglers are catching crappies in the timber along the old creek channel.
Wilson Lake
The DNR will release 1,000 rainbow trout of which 200 will be tagged for prizes at 1 p.m., Nov. 5 (this Saturday). Rainbow Trout - Fair: As the weather has started to cool down the trout have been seen coming up to the surface to feed in the early mornings and evenings.
Environmental Discovery Park North Pond
The DNR will release 1,000 rainbow trout of which 100 will be tagged for prizes at 10:30 a.m., Nov. 5 (this Saturday).
For more information on the above lakes call the Lake Darling Fisheries Station at 319-694-2430.
Red Haw Lake
Bluegill - Slow: Try a chunk of nightcrawler fished under a bobber on a small jig. Bluegills have moved off shore so try depths of 6 to 10 feet. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Try spinner baits or rubber worms rigged Texas style. Target submerged structure or rock.
Hawthorn Lake (aka Barnes City Lake)
The lake was drained last year for a lake renovation but work is complete. New fish habitat areas have been built along with some new jetties. The lake is now full. Fingerlings were stocked in May.
Lake Sugema
Lake Sugema contains the invasive plant brittle naiad so make sure to inspect and clean your boat and trailer when leaving the lake. Bluegill - Slow: Small jigs with a chunk of nightcrawler fished under a bobber have been the most productive. Try depths ranging from 6 to 10 feet. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Use spinner baits or crankbaits fished along the rocky shorelines. Crappie - Slow: Try using a slip bobber with a minnow. Try areas along the flooded timber.
Ottumwa Lagoon
Trout were stocked on Oct. 14. Try using small spinners or small jigs.
Rathbun Reservoir
The lake level is 903.97 feet with 904.0 feet being normal pool. Water temperature has been in the lower 50s. Don't forget Lake Rathbun contains zebra mussels so make sure to clean, drain, and dry boats before transporting to another water body. Spray boats and trailers with high pressure hot water (above 104 degrees) or let them dry for at least 10 days (5 days in sun). Crappie - Slow: Try minnows fished under a slip bobber in areas with some type of underwater structure. Look for brush piles or standing timber. Walleye - Slow: Anglers should try using nightcrawler harnesses and bottom bouncers being trolled. Jigs should also be tried. Tagged walleyes should be reported at 641-647-2406.
For further fishing reports in south central Iowa call the Rathbun fish hatchery at 641-647-2406
SOUTHWEST
Roberts Creek Lake
Crappie - Fair: Anglers drifting or trolling over the sunken habitat in the southeast arm are catching fair numbers of crappie with an occasional large fish over 11 inches.
Big Creek Lake
Big Creek Lake is currently about three feet low. Some underwater humps and roadbeds are close to the surface. Use caution when boating. Crappie - Fair: Crappie fishing is fair to slow. Anglers that find the fish on sunken brush piles are picking some off on calm days. Stick to habitat in the upper half of the lake in the east ramp bay and the marina area. Walleye - Fair: A few anglers have been taking advantage of a fall walleye bite. Many fish being caught are sublegal, but legal fish, as well as some reward tagged fish, are coming in. The points and old rock piles on the north half of the lake have been the most productive spots trolling crankbaits or a slow live bait presentation with minnows.
Red Rock Reservoir
Crappie - Good: The best place to target large crappies on Red Rock continues to be the docks in the marina with minnows. Access is by boat, there is no trespassing on the docks.
Saylorville Reservoir
White Bass - Good: Anglers have been getting into some white bass shallow near Sandpiper and in the back of the marina bay. Crappie - Fair: Some good size crappie are being caught around the marina docks. Access is by boat, no trespassing is allowed on the docks.
Lake Petoka
Rainbow Trout - Good: Trout fishing was off to a slow start, but anglers are doing very well now using small inline spinners, minnows or wax worms under a bobber, and flies on calmer days. Both rainbow and brook trout were stocked this time.
Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake
Rainbow Trout - No Report: Rainbow trout will be released into Ada Hayden around noon on Nov. 18. The trout will again be confined to the north pit.
Banner Lake (south)
Rainbow Trout - Good: Anglers are continuing to do well casting inline spinners, small jigs, and minnows under a bobber.
Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock)
Walleye - Fair: Anglers are catching walleye below Saylorville spillway casting crankbaits. Not much is coming from directly below the spillway, multiple good holes worth trying exist downstream to Prospect Park. In addition to walleye, some fair smallmouth bass and white bass can also be expected.
Water temperatures are continuing to cool through the upper 40s. Anglers fishing for crappie are doing well on many lakes. Low river levels are creating some good fall walleye fishing where deeper water can be found. 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. Water clarity is good. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Largemouth bass are being caught casting around jetties and weed edges. Many fish are in the 12 to 15-inch range. Crappie - Fair: A few crappies are being caught around deep cedar tree piles.
Nodaway Lake
Nodaway has one small boat ramp. Crappie - Fair: Crappies are being caught vertical jigging around brush piles. Fish average nine inches with a few 11-inch fish being caught. Evenings seem to be best.
Lake Anita
Lake Anita has two concrete ramps. Bluegill - Slow: Bluegills up to nine inches are being caught drifting and around brush piles. Crappie - Fair: Crappie up to 10 inches are being caught vertical jigging the brush piles. Evening bite is best. White twister tails and road runners have been good baits to use.
Willow Lake
Willow has one concrete boat ramp and excellent water clarity. Channel Catfish - Slow: Channel catfish can be caught along the campground shoreline and around jetties using blood bait or liver. Bluegill - Fair: The best bluegill bite is early in the morning using nightcrawlers under a bobber. Fish average eight inches.
Viking Lake
Viking Lake has four feet of water clarity. The lake has three concrete boat ramps. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Anglers are catching largemouth bass in the sunken cedar trees using plastic baits. Casting spinner baits along weed edges has also produced fish up to 20 inches. Crappie - Fair: Crappies up to 10 inches can be caught around brush piles.
Cold Springs District Farm Ponds
There are numerous farm ponds in southern Iowa that can provide a quality fishing trip. Remember to always get permission to fish private farm ponds. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish can be caught with cut bait this time of year. Bluegill - Fair: Fish for bluegills around deeper structure and outside edges of vegetation. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Largemouth bass can be caught casting around structure and along the shoreline. Early morning and late evenings are the best times to target largemouth.
Water temperatures have fallen to around 50 degrees. Anglers have reported good panfishing in a few areas. For more information on fishing call the southwest district office in Lewis at 712-769-2587.
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
Nelson Park has the invasive plant brittle naiad. Be sure to clean boat and trailer before leaving the lake to avoid spreading this species to other water bodies. Fishing has been slow for all species.
Yellow Smoke Park Lake
Yellow Smoke has the invasive plant brittle naiad. Be sure to clean boat and trailer before leaving the lake to avoid spreading this species to other water bodies. Water clarity is excellent. Fishing has been slow.
Crawford Creek Impoundment
Crawford Creek has the invasive plant brittle naiad. Be sure to clean boat and trailer before leaving the lake to avoid spreading this species to other water bodies.
Brushy Creek Lake
Bluegill and crappie are being caught in 20 to 25 feet of water on wax worms.
Bacon Creek Lake
The DNR will release 1,500 rainbow trout on Nov. 17 at 1 p.m.
Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Boaters use caution. The hydraulic dredge is in operation at Storm Lake. Stay clear of dredge barge, booster pump barge, and pipeline. 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. Fishing continues to be slow at Storm Lake. Walleye - Slow:
North Twin Lake
Anglers continue to catch good numbers of yellow bass at North Twin Lake. Most yellows are around eight inches with a few 9 and 10-inch fish mixed in. Anglers fishing the windward shoreline have had the best luck. There have been reports of walleye being caught at North Twin as well.
Swan Lake
Bluegill and crappie are biting on very small jigs tipped with a wax worm or a red worm. Bass fishing has been slow out in the deeper water.
Black Hawk Lake
Anglers are allowed three walleye per day and all walleye must be at least 15 inches. Bluegill - Fair: Anglers have been catching medium sized bluegill in Town Bay from the south stone pier. Walleye - Slow: Anglers have been catching a few legal walleye from Ice House Point using live minnows under a bobber or casting twisters and shad raps. Some walleye have also been caught trolling shad raps.
Browns Lake
Fishing from shore has been slow.
Snyder Bend Lake
Snyder Bend has reopened. However, anglers need to be aware of the refuge boundary.
Great Western Park Lake
Great Western Park has the invasive plant brittle naiad. Be sure to clean boat and trailer before leaving the lake to avoid spreading this species to other water bodies.
Moorland Pond
The DNR will release 1,500 rainbow trout on Nov. 16 at 1 p.m.
Little Sioux River (Linn Grove to Correctionville)
Fishing around the Linn Grove Dam continues to be slow. Water temperature has been in the 40s.
Black Hawk District Farm Ponds
Bluegill and largemouth bass have been biting in the evening hours on live bait and plastics. Early morning fishing has been slow.
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.
Beeds Lake
Largemouth bass fishing has been fair, try fishing near cover.
Clear Lake
Most of the docks have been removed. Yellow bass and a few walleyes are biting drifting cut bait. Anglers are having success catching a mixed bag of fish off the jetties.
Lake Cornelia
Perch and bluegill fishing has been good. A few walleyes and channel catfish are also being caught. The docks at the boat ramp have been pulled.
Little Wall Lake
Crappie fishing is good; 6 to 8-inch crappies are being caught on tube jigs fishing off the jetty. Bluegill fishing is fair, being caught same way. Bass fair, try using crankbaits in the evenings.
Bluebill Lake
Largemouth bass are biting on minnows. Bluegill and crappie are biting on tube jigs fished in 15 to 18 feet of water.
Interstate Park Lake
A few bluegill and crappie are biting fishing from shore with a piece of crawler.
Remember to clean, drain, and dry your boat and equipment to stop the spread of invasive species. For more fishing information in the north central area contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517.
NORTHEAST
Volga Lake
Try fishing over brush piles and along the dam, especially in the afternoon. Bluegill - Slow: Largemouth Bass - Slow: Crappie - Slow:
Lake Hendricks
Few anglers have been out this week. Try around the north side of the lake among the stumps. Bluegill - Slow: Largemouth Bass - Slow: Crappie - No Report:
Lake Meyer
Few anglers have been on the lake this week. Northern Pike - No Report: Bluegill - Slow: Largemouth Bass - No Report: Crappie - Slow:
Upper Iowa River (above Decorah)
Flow is low so concentrate efforts around the deeper holes and around snags and logjams. Smallmouth Bass - Slow: Walleye - Slow: Anglers have been using crankbaits and jigs tipped with a twister tail. Also try floating worms through the deeper holes.
Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)
With low water levels, focus efforts in the deeper holes. Northern Pike - No Report: Smallmouth Bass - No Report: Walleye - Good: Try using jigs tipped with a twister tail.
Turkey River (below Clermont)
We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.
Wapsi River (state line to Tripoli)
We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.
Cedar River (above Nashua)
Fish activity has slowed dramatically this week. Northern Pike - Slow: Smallmouth Bass - Slow: Crappie - No Report: Walleye - Slow: Walleye have been hitting on jigs tipped with a minnow, worms or twistertails drifted over the deeper holes.
Decorah District Streams
#18 Blue Wing Olive hatches have remained excellent, though they are diminishing somewhat as colder weather approaches. #18 Blue Wing dry fly (on the surface or drowned) and wet fly patterns have been successful casting upstream and twitching back downstream, especially late in the day. Blue Wing nymph patterns have also been productive. These patterns can remain effective through Thanksgiving. Even though we aren't stocking catchable size fish in streams, streams still have plenty of fish.
Area rivers, lakes and trout streams are in good condition even after recent rains. Fishing opportunities are abundant this time of year as well as opportunities for viewing the annual waterfowl migration. For more information, contact Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382-8324.
MISSISSIPPI RIVER
Mississippi River Pool 9
River levels at Lansing are low at 8 feet and expected to stay at this level over the next week. Northern Pike - Fair: Pike are scattered but feeding. Many being caught on minnows along snags or in backwaters around what vegetation is left. Bluegill - Good: Majority of bluegills have moved into overwintering areas. Fish the deeper areas slowly, with small jigs and worms. Smallmouth Bass - Good: Smallmouths are feeding along rocky areas with current. Largemouth Bass - Good: Largemouth are still feeding but have moved closer to overwintering areas. Look for active fish just outside overwintering areas. Crappie - Good: Crappie are still biting in running sloughs near overwintering areas. Walleye - Good: A few more walleye are starting to be caught in Minnesota Slough on minnows and trolling with crankbaits.
Mississippi River Pool 10
River level at Lynxville is 13.2 feet and expected to stay at this level over the next week. Northern Pike - Fair: Pike are scattered but feeding. Many being caught on minnows along snags or in backwaters around what vegetation is left. Bluegill - Good: Majority of bluegills have moved into overwintering areas. Fish deeper areas and fish slow with small jigs and worms. Largemouth Bass - Good: Largemouth are still feeding but have moved closer to overwintering areas. Look for active fish just outside of overwintering areas. Crappie - Good: Crappie still biting in running sloughs near overwintering areas. Sauger - Excellent: Many 10 to 12-inch sauger being caught in the tail waters now, with a few pushing 15 inches. Walleye - Good: Walleye bite is beginning to pick up in the tail waters, most caught on simple jig and minnow rigs.
Mississippi River Pool 11
River level at Guttenberg is 5.1 feet and expected to fall slightly over the next week. Northern Pike - Fair: Pike are scattered but feeding. Many being caught on minnows along snags or in backwaters around what vegetation is left. Bluegill - Good: Majority of bluegills have moved into overwintering areas. Fish deeper areas and fish slow with small jigs and worms. Largemouth Bass - Good: Largemouth are still feeding but have moved closer to overwintering areas. Look for active fish just outside of overwintering areas. Crappie - Good: Crappie still biting in running sloughs near overwintering areas. Sauger - Excellent: Sauger biting well in the tail waters now with a lot of 10 to 12-inch fish being caught and a few up to 15 inches. Walleye - Good: A few more walleye are starting to be caught in the tail waters on minnows and trolling with crankbaits.
Fishing levels remain very low on the Upper Mississippi River Pools 9 to 11 and are expected to remain low over the next week. With low water levels boaters should take caution while loading and unloading at boat ramps as the end of some ramps have drop offs or hidden obstructions that can damage boat props or trailers. Floating vegetation may be a problem especially if casting and fishing along shorelines. Water temperatures have fallen below 50 degrees.
Mississippi River Pool 12
Water Level at Dubuque is 5.3 feet and steady. Water temperature is in the 40s. Some fall fishing can still be had. Bluegill - Excellent: Some bluegills are moving into the mouths of their winter backwater homes. Some large bluegills are being taken using simple bobber and worm rigs. Largemouth Bass - Excellent: Many large bass are being taken along brush piles and logs. Bass are really sitting along the wood in slack water areas. Bass are really packing into their over wintering backwaters right now. Crappie - Excellent: Crappies are being taken in good numbers by anglers fishing along brush piles in deeper sloughs and backwater Lakes. . Sauger - Good: Many small sauger and are being taken out of the Dubuque tail water. Anglers are mainly using a jig and minnow. Walleye - Fair: A few large walleyes in the 'slot are being reported. Slot fish between 20 and 27 inches cannot be kept.
Mississippi River Pool 13
Water Level at Guttenberg is 4.7 feet and steady. Water temperature is in the 40s. Bluegill - Good: Some bluegills are moving into the mouths of their winter backwater homes. Some large bluegills are being taken using simple bobber and worm rigs. Try fishing in Lainsville Slough (although parts are shallow) and lower Sabula Lake. Largemouth Bass - Good: Many large bass are being taken along brush piles and logs in places like Minnesota Slough. Bass are really sitting along the wood in slack water areas. Crappie - Excellent: Crappies are being taken in good numbers by anglers fishing along brush piles in deeper sloughs and backwater lakes. In Pool 13 try along Crooked Slough or Lower Sabula Lake. Sauger - Fair: Some small sauger and an occasional large walleye are being taken out of the Bellevue tail water. Anglers are mainly using a jig and minnow. Walleye - Fair: Some very large walleyes are being taken in the upper portions of Pool 13 on wing dams.
Mississippi River Pool 14
Water Level at LeClaire is 4.5 feet and steady. Water temperature is around 50 degrees. Bluegill - Good: Some bluegills are moving into the mouths of their winter backwater homes. Some large bluegills are being taken using simple bobber and worm rigs. Schrickers Lake and Rock Creek complex is a good bet! Crappie - Good: Crappies are being taken in good numbers by anglers fishing along brush piles in deeper sloughs and backwater Lakes.
Mississippi River Pool 15
We have received no information regarding fishing on this water body this week.
River levels remain low and stable on the upper Mississippi Pools 12-15. The consistent water levels have made for good fishing as water temperatures cool into the upper 40s.
Mississippi River Pool 16
Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 15 is 5.47 feet. River conditions are still low and boaters should use caution when navigating the river. Channel Catfish - Slow: Fishing for channel catfish has been slow. Bluegill - Slow: Fishing for bluegills has been slow. Crappie - Good: Some crappies are being caught in Sunset Marina. Try fishing around the docks with a jig and minnow. Some crappies are also being caught in the backwaters. The Andalusia Island complex has been difficult to access due to the low water conditions. Sauger - Fair: Some saugers are being caught on the wing dams below the I-280 Bridge and along Credit Island. Most fish are being caught on jigs and minnows or on jigs and twister tails. There are some saugers being caught in Sylvan Slough but most of them have been on the small side. Walleye - Fair: Some walleyes are being caught on the wing dams below the I-280 Bridge and along Credit Island. Most fish are being caught on jigs and minnows or on jigs and plastics.
Mississippi River Pool 17
Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 16 is 4.11 feet. Water level is still low and boaters should use caution when navigating the river. Bluegill - Fair: Some bluegills are being caught in the backwaters on jigs and minnows or jigs and small plastics. Try fishing around brush piles. Crappie - Fair: Some crappies are being caught in the backwaters on jigs and minnows or jigs and plastics. Try fishing around brush piles. Sauger - No Report: We have received no tail water fishing reports for saugers this week.
Mississippi River Pool 18
Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 17 is 3.96 feet. River stage is still low so boaters should use caution when navigating the river. Bluegill - Fair: Some bluegills are being caught in the backwaters. Try fishing around brush piles with jigs and minnows or jigs and plastics. Crappie - Fair: Crappies are being caught in the backwaters. Try fishing with jigs and minnows or jigs and plastics around brush piles. Sauger - Fair: A few saugers are starting to be caught in the tail waters and around wing dams on jigs and minnows. Walleye - Slow: Walleye fishing has been slow.
Mississippi River Pool 19
Tail water stage at Lock and Dam 18 is 1.88 feet. River level is still low so boaters should use caution when navigating the river. Crappie - Fair: Crappies are being caught in the backwaters on jigs and minnows or jigs and plastics. Sauger - Slow: Tail water fishing for saugers has been slow.
Mississippi River Pools 16-19: Main channel water temperature is around 51 degrees and water clarity is fair. River levels are still low and boaters should use caution when navigating the river. Many of the backwaters throughout the pools have been difficult to access due to the low water conditions. Remember to clean, drain, and dry your boat before going to another water body. For more fishing information on Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.
SOUTHEAST
Lake Belva Deer
The south ramp remains closed for construction but will be reopened soon. Bluegill - Fair: There are a few anglers still out. Look for the bluegills to be between 6 to 8 feet deep.
Lake of the Hills
The DNR released 1,800 rainbow trout on Oct. 22. Rainbow Trout - Excellent: Anglers are quickly catching limits using wax worms and artificial lures. If you can find a school you can do very well. Channel Catfish - Good: With the nice sunny days the catfishing has picked back up. Target the shallow bays on afternoons when the sun is out. Crappie - Good: Live minnows are producing crappies off the fishing dock area as well as the brush piles. Remember, Lake of the Hills is the only lake in West Lake Park where live minnows can be used as bait.
Railroad Lake
Channel Catfish - Good: Fish has improved since last week along the old creek channel using liver, dip baits, or night crawlers. Bluegill - Fair: Try where Bluegrass Lake dumps into Railroad, especially after the recent rains. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Nice fish are being caught off the timber and along the rocks. Crappie - Good: Anglers are catching crappies in the timber along the old creek channel.
Wilson Lake
The DNR will release 1,000 rainbow trout of which 200 will be tagged for prizes at 1 p.m., Nov. 5 (this Saturday). Rainbow Trout - Fair: As the weather has started to cool down the trout have been seen coming up to the surface to feed in the early mornings and evenings.
Environmental Discovery Park North Pond
The DNR will release 1,000 rainbow trout of which 100 will be tagged for prizes at 10:30 a.m., Nov. 5 (this Saturday).
For more information on the above lakes call the Lake Darling Fisheries Station at 319-694-2430.
Red Haw Lake
Bluegill - Slow: Try a chunk of nightcrawler fished under a bobber on a small jig. Bluegills have moved off shore so try depths of 6 to 10 feet. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Try spinner baits or rubber worms rigged Texas style. Target submerged structure or rock.
Hawthorn Lake (aka Barnes City Lake)
The lake was drained last year for a lake renovation but work is complete. New fish habitat areas have been built along with some new jetties. The lake is now full. Fingerlings were stocked in May.
Lake Sugema
Lake Sugema contains the invasive plant brittle naiad so make sure to inspect and clean your boat and trailer when leaving the lake. Bluegill - Slow: Small jigs with a chunk of nightcrawler fished under a bobber have been the most productive. Try depths ranging from 6 to 10 feet. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Use spinner baits or crankbaits fished along the rocky shorelines. Crappie - Slow: Try using a slip bobber with a minnow. Try areas along the flooded timber.
Ottumwa Lagoon
Trout were stocked on Oct. 14. Try using small spinners or small jigs.
Rathbun Reservoir
The lake level is 903.97 feet with 904.0 feet being normal pool. Water temperature has been in the lower 50s. Don't forget Lake Rathbun contains zebra mussels so make sure to clean, drain, and dry boats before transporting to another water body. Spray boats and trailers with high pressure hot water (above 104 degrees) or let them dry for at least 10 days (5 days in sun). Crappie - Slow: Try minnows fished under a slip bobber in areas with some type of underwater structure. Look for brush piles or standing timber. Walleye - Slow: Anglers should try using nightcrawler harnesses and bottom bouncers being trolled. Jigs should also be tried. Tagged walleyes should be reported at 641-647-2406.
For further fishing reports in south central Iowa call the Rathbun fish hatchery at 641-647-2406
SOUTHWEST
Roberts Creek Lake
Crappie - Fair: Anglers drifting or trolling over the sunken habitat in the southeast arm are catching fair numbers of crappie with an occasional large fish over 11 inches.
Big Creek Lake
Big Creek Lake is currently about three feet low. Some underwater humps and roadbeds are close to the surface. Use caution when boating. Crappie - Fair: Crappie fishing is fair to slow. Anglers that find the fish on sunken brush piles are picking some off on calm days. Stick to habitat in the upper half of the lake in the east ramp bay and the marina area. Walleye - Fair: A few anglers have been taking advantage of a fall walleye bite. Many fish being caught are sublegal, but legal fish, as well as some reward tagged fish, are coming in. The points and old rock piles on the north half of the lake have been the most productive spots trolling crankbaits or a slow live bait presentation with minnows.
Red Rock Reservoir
Crappie - Good: The best place to target large crappies on Red Rock continues to be the docks in the marina with minnows. Access is by boat, there is no trespassing on the docks.
Saylorville Reservoir
White Bass - Good: Anglers have been getting into some white bass shallow near Sandpiper and in the back of the marina bay. Crappie - Fair: Some good size crappie are being caught around the marina docks. Access is by boat, no trespassing is allowed on the docks.
Lake Petoka
Rainbow Trout - Good: Trout fishing was off to a slow start, but anglers are doing very well now using small inline spinners, minnows or wax worms under a bobber, and flies on calmer days. Both rainbow and brook trout were stocked this time.
Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake
Rainbow Trout - No Report: Rainbow trout will be released into Ada Hayden around noon on Nov. 18. The trout will again be confined to the north pit.
Banner Lake (south)
Rainbow Trout - Good: Anglers are continuing to do well casting inline spinners, small jigs, and minnows under a bobber.
Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock)
Walleye - Fair: Anglers are catching walleye below Saylorville spillway casting crankbaits. Not much is coming from directly below the spillway, multiple good holes worth trying exist downstream to Prospect Park. In addition to walleye, some fair smallmouth bass and white bass can also be expected.
Water temperatures are continuing to cool through the upper 40s. Anglers fishing for crappie are doing well on many lakes. Low river levels are creating some good fall walleye fishing where deeper water can be found. 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. Water clarity is good. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Largemouth bass are being caught casting around jetties and weed edges. Many fish are in the 12 to 15-inch range. Crappie - Fair: A few crappies are being caught around deep cedar tree piles.
Nodaway Lake
Nodaway has one small boat ramp. Crappie - Fair: Crappies are being caught vertical jigging around brush piles. Fish average nine inches with a few 11-inch fish being caught. Evenings seem to be best.
Lake Anita
Lake Anita has two concrete ramps. Bluegill - Slow: Bluegills up to nine inches are being caught drifting and around brush piles. Crappie - Fair: Crappie up to 10 inches are being caught vertical jigging the brush piles. Evening bite is best. White twister tails and road runners have been good baits to use.
Willow Lake
Willow has one concrete boat ramp and excellent water clarity. Channel Catfish - Slow: Channel catfish can be caught along the campground shoreline and around jetties using blood bait or liver. Bluegill - Fair: The best bluegill bite is early in the morning using nightcrawlers under a bobber. Fish average eight inches.
Viking Lake
Viking Lake has four feet of water clarity. The lake has three concrete boat ramps. Largemouth Bass - Slow: Anglers are catching largemouth bass in the sunken cedar trees using plastic baits. Casting spinner baits along weed edges has also produced fish up to 20 inches. Crappie - Fair: Crappies up to 10 inches can be caught around brush piles.
Cold Springs District Farm Ponds
There are numerous farm ponds in southern Iowa that can provide a quality fishing trip. Remember to always get permission to fish private farm ponds. Channel Catfish - Fair: Channel catfish can be caught with cut bait this time of year. Bluegill - Fair: Fish for bluegills around deeper structure and outside edges of vegetation. Largemouth Bass - Fair: Largemouth bass can be caught casting around structure and along the shoreline. Early morning and late evenings are the best times to target largemouth.
Water temperatures have fallen to around 50 degrees. Anglers have reported good panfishing in a few areas. For more information on fishing call the southwest district office in Lewis at 712-769-2587.