- Joined
- Jun 16, 2010
- Location
- North Liberty, Iowa
Iowa Fishing Report
November 4, 2010
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.
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.
SOUTHWEST
Three Mile Lake
Water clarity is about 4 feet. Anglers are catching largemouth bass and walleyes.
Walleye Fair A few walleye are being caught from the old
roadway between the ramps or by trolling deep
diving crankbaits around the big open points or
open flat areas at the upper end.
Largemouth Bass Fair A few mid-sized and big bass are being caught
using crankbaits around the big points.
roadway between the ramps or by trolling deep
diving crankbaits around the big open points or
open flat areas at the upper end.
Largemouth Bass Fair A few mid-sized and big bass are being caught
using crankbaits around the big points.
Fish Name Status Comments
Twelve Mile Creek Lake
Water clarity is about 4 feet. Temps are in the lower 50's.
Walleye Fair A few mid-sized walleye can be caught by trolling
the open flat areas at the upper end of the lake.
the open flat areas at the upper end of the lake.
Fish Name Status Comments
Summitt Lake
The lake's water level has been lowered to allow for the placement of shoreline rip rap
later this winter.
later this winter.
Lake Icaria
Water clarity is about 40 inches at the dam. The lake's water level has been lowered about
16 inches to allow some shoreline repairs. The repairs are complete and the lake will be
allowed to refill as run-off permits.
16 inches to allow some shoreline repairs. The repairs are complete and the lake will be
allowed to refill as run-off permits.
Green Valley Lake
The lake is still down for sediment removal. The project is expected to last until after
January. The lake has been restocked and most species are big enough to catch. Ice
fishing for panfish should be excellent.
January. The lake has been restocked and most species are big enough to catch. Ice
fishing for panfish should be excellent.
Water quality is very good, water levels are normal, and water temperatures are in the low
50's. Fishing is good. Fish are starting to move a little deeper.
50's. Fishing is good. Fish are starting to move a little deeper.
Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock)
White Bass Good White bass below the Saylorville spillway are hitting
on jig and twisters, spoons, and lipless crankbaits.
Walleye Fair The walleye bite remains slow to fair. Anglers
fishing at Cottonwood with jigs tipped with minnows
or twisters are catching a few walleye. Jig and
crawler is also catching some walleye, but expect to
catch numerous drum. A few walleye are also
being caught with the same methods below the
Scott Street dam.
on jig and twisters, spoons, and lipless crankbaits.
Walleye Fair The walleye bite remains slow to fair. Anglers
fishing at Cottonwood with jigs tipped with minnows
or twisters are catching a few walleye. Jig and
crawler is also catching some walleye, but expect to
catch numerous drum. A few walleye are also
being caught with the same methods below the
Scott Street dam.
Fish Name Status Comments
Red Rock Reservoir
Walleye Slow Anglers are picking up some walleyes below the
spillway with jig and twisters or jig and minnow.
Most have been on the smaller side, but some good
fish are mixed in.
White Bass Fair The white bass bite is still good right now below the
spillway throwing anything from jig and twisters,
crankbaits, or spoons.
Crappie Fair Anglers fishing minnows under a bobber or small
jigs below the spillway in slack water are picking up
some crappie.
spillway with jig and twisters or jig and minnow.
Most have been on the smaller side, but some good
fish are mixed in.
White Bass Fair The white bass bite is still good right now below the
spillway throwing anything from jig and twisters,
crankbaits, or spoons.
Crappie Fair Anglers fishing minnows under a bobber or small
jigs below the spillway in slack water are picking up
some crappie.
Fish Name Status Comments
Big Creek Lake
There is currently a walleye harvest study taking place. Anglers who catch a walleye
should look near the tail of the fish for a small yellow tag. The tags can be removed from
harvested or released fish of LEGAL size and returned with a survey for a cash reward.
The surveys can be picked up at the marina, park office, Polk City Bait and Tackle, or
Johnston Bait and Tackle. There are also signs posted at the boat ramps with instructions.
should look near the tail of the fish for a small yellow tag. The tags can be removed from
harvested or released fish of LEGAL size and returned with a survey for a cash reward.
The surveys can be picked up at the marina, park office, Polk City Bait and Tackle, or
Johnston Bait and Tackle. There are also signs posted at the boat ramps with instructions.
Crappie Good Crappie are being caught in locations similar to the
ice fishing season. These locations include the
road beds out from the West ramp and Ensign
shelter and the sunken brushpiles in 15 foot of
water or deeper. Use small tube jigs or small jigs
tipped with minnows. The best times have been
from sunrise to mid morning and again just before
sunset.
ice fishing season. These locations include the
road beds out from the West ramp and Ensign
shelter and the sunken brushpiles in 15 foot of
water or deeper. Use small tube jigs or small jigs
tipped with minnows. The best times have been
from sunrise to mid morning and again just before
sunset.
Fish Name Status Comments
It has been pretty quiet on central Iowa lakes with only a few fishermen taking advantage of
the nicer days. Water temps are currently in the upper 40's to low 50's. The Des Moines
River, Middle and North Raccoon rivers remain in good fishing condition. For questions
about central Iowa lakes and rivers contact Ben Dodd or Andy Otting at 515-432-2823.
the nicer days. Water temps are currently in the upper 40's to low 50's. The Des Moines
River, Middle and North Raccoon rivers remain in good fishing condition. For questions
about central Iowa lakes and rivers contact Ben Dodd or Andy Otting at 515-432-2823.
SOUTHEAST
Lake Keomah
Largemouth Bass Fair Use rubber worms along the shoreline and around
the jetties. Another spot to try is along the outside
of the aquatic vegetation.
Bluegill Fair Use a chunk of nightcrawler fished along the
shoreline and around submerged structure. Along
the fishing piers can also be a good spot.
the jetties. Another spot to try is along the outside
of the aquatic vegetation.
Bluegill Fair Use a chunk of nightcrawler fished along the
shoreline and around submerged structure. Along
the fishing piers can also be a good spot.
Fish Name Status Comments
Lake Wapello
The lake has refilled after last year's fish population renovation. Red ear and channel
catfish were stocked last fall and largemouth bass and bluegill this spring.
catfish were stocked last fall and largemouth bass and bluegill this spring.
Red Haw Lake
Largemouth Bass Fair Try plastic worms fished around submerged
structure or around the rock jetties. As the water
continues to cool down slow down your retrieve.
Bluegill Fair Use small jigs tipped with a chunk of nightcrawler.
Try areas along the shoreline and around the
aquatic vegetation.
structure or around the rock jetties. As the water
continues to cool down slow down your retrieve.
Bluegill Fair Use small jigs tipped with a chunk of nightcrawler.
Try areas along the shoreline and around the
aquatic vegetation.
Fish Name Status Comments
Hawthorn Lake (aka Barnes City Lake)
The lake renovation project has begun and the lake is being drained. The boat ramps are
not usable as the lake is approximately 20 feet low. Shore fishing is still allowed.
not usable as the lake is approximately 20 feet low. Shore fishing is still allowed.
Rathbun Reservoir
The current lake level is 907.02 with normal pool being 904. The water temperature is
ranging in the mid 50's. Boat ramps are open at Honey Creek State Park, Bridgeview,
South Fork, Buck Creek, and Island View.
ranging in the mid 50's. Boat ramps are open at Honey Creek State Park, Bridgeview,
South Fork, Buck Creek, and Island View.
Walleye Slow Try using baits that mimic gizzard shad. Jig and
minnows can also be good this time of year.
Please be wary of tagged walleyes and if these fish
are harvested please call the hatchery with the tag
number. The phone number for the hatchery is 641
-647-2406.
Crappie Slow Fish are starting to move shallow so try areas with
submerged trees or other structure. Rocky
shorelines have also been producing some fish.
Using small jigs has been productive.
minnows can also be good this time of year.
Please be wary of tagged walleyes and if these fish
are harvested please call the hatchery with the tag
number. The phone number for the hatchery is 641
-647-2406.
Crappie Slow Fish are starting to move shallow so try areas with
submerged trees or other structure. Rocky
shorelines have also been producing some fish.
Using small jigs has been productive.
Fish Name Status Comments
Lake Sugema
Largemouth Bass Fair Use plastic worms and spinnerbaits. A jig n' pig
combo should also be tried this time of year.
Walleye Slow Use jigs tipped with a minnow around the rocky
shorelines. Walleyes have started to move shallow
in the evenings.
Crappie Slow Try small jigs along submerged structure. Fish
have been suspended in 8-12 feet of water.
combo should also be tried this time of year.
Walleye Slow Use jigs tipped with a minnow around the rocky
shorelines. Walleyes have started to move shallow
in the evenings.
Crappie Slow Try small jigs along submerged structure. Fish
have been suspended in 8-12 feet of water.
Fish Name Status Comments
Albia (lower)
A boat ramp has been constructed on the lower reservoir.
Largemouth Bass Fair Use spinnerbaits fished along the shoreline and
around areas with submerged structures. Rubber
worms can also be productive this time of year.
Bluegill Fair Use small jigs tipped with a chunk of nightcrawler.
Try areas along the dam between the upper and
lower reservoirs.
around areas with submerged structures. Rubber
worms can also be productive this time of year.
Bluegill Fair Use small jigs tipped with a chunk of nightcrawler.
Try areas along the dam between the upper and
lower reservoirs.
Fish Name Status Comments
For additional fishing information in south central Iowa please call the Rathbun Fish Hatchery
at 641-647-2406.
at 641-647-2406.
Coralville Reservoir
The lake level is at normal pool of 683' and holding. The water is dirty.
Crappie Slow A few nice fish are being caught on bright colored
jigs in deeper brush piles.
Channel Catfish Slow Stink bait has been reported as working best. The
upper end of the reservoir has been producing best.
jigs in deeper brush piles.
Channel Catfish Slow Stink bait has been reported as working best. The
upper end of the reservoir has been producing best.
Fish Name Status Comments
Iowa River (Coralville Lake to River Junction)
Flows coming out of the tube have been about 1000 CFS.
Walleye Slow A few walleyes are being picked up on jigs and
crankbaits below the dams.
crankbaits below the dams.
Fish Name Status Comments
Lake Macbride
Any sized motor may be used at no-wake speed. Water temps are around 50.
Walleye Fair A few walleyes are being picked up by trolling
crankbaits. Most success has come in 9-11 feet.
Crappie Fair Crappies are extremely hit and miss right now.
Some anglers are catching limits, some are
catching a few. Fish brush and areas with warmer
water.
crankbaits. Most success has come in 9-11 feet.
Crappie Fair Crappies are extremely hit and miss right now.
Some anglers are catching limits, some are
catching a few. Fish brush and areas with warmer
water.
Fish Name Status Comments
Union Grove Lake
Crappie Good Anglers are catching fish by drifting jigs or minnows
out in open water as well as by casting to shoreline
structure. There is an abundance of 8-9" fish here.
Bluegill Fair Use small jigs around brush.
out in open water as well as by casting to shoreline
structure. There is an abundance of 8-9" fish here.
Bluegill Fair Use small jigs around brush.
Fish Name Status Comments
Lake Belva Deer
Both the North and South side are open now. The contractor is still doing some shoulder
work but anglers should be able to reach the lake with little delay. Fishing has slowed
down some.
work but anglers should be able to reach the lake with little delay. Fishing has slowed
down some.
Crappie Fair Ther big crappies remain out in 16-18 foot of water.
Minnows seem to be working the best.
Bluegill Fair The bluegills are out in 16-18 foot of water.
Waxworms or fish worms are the best.
Minnows seem to be working the best.
Bluegill Fair The bluegills are out in 16-18 foot of water.
Waxworms or fish worms are the best.
Fish Name Status Comments
Lake of the Hills
Rainbow Trout Excellent Trout continue to hit on spinners, jigs, corn, power
bait, and worms. They are around the habitat in
about 4-5 foot of water.
Largemouth Bass Good Anglers are catching some nice bass while they are
using spinners trying to catch trout.
Crappie Fair Look for these fish to be in shallow around the
habitat where the sun is warming up the water.
Channel Catfish Fair Catfishing has slowed down some. Try the shallow
sun warmed bays with stinkbaits in the afternoons.
bait, and worms. They are around the habitat in
about 4-5 foot of water.
Largemouth Bass Good Anglers are catching some nice bass while they are
using spinners trying to catch trout.
Crappie Fair Look for these fish to be in shallow around the
habitat where the sun is warming up the water.
Channel Catfish Fair Catfishing has slowed down some. Try the shallow
sun warmed bays with stinkbaits in the afternoons.
Fish Name Status Comments
Railroad Lake
Channel Catfish Good Catfishing remains good in Railroad lake, producing
good numbers of pan-sized fish. Fish cutbait or
night crawlers around the stump fields along the
North side. Dipbaits are also catching some fish.
good numbers of pan-sized fish. Fish cutbait or
night crawlers around the stump fields along the
North side. Dipbaits are also catching some fish.
Fish Name Status Comments
For more information, contact the Lake Macbride Fisheries Station at 319-624-3615.
Skunk River (Rose Hill to Coppock)
The water level in the river is still high enough to allow easy boating. The water
temperature is dropping into the low 50's and upper forties. Most of the fish are migrating
to their overwintering holes now.
temperature is dropping into the low 50's and upper forties. Most of the fish are migrating
to their overwintering holes now.
Channel Catfish Fair Anglers are still doing fairly well catching catfish.
Try cutbait or stinkbait. If you get lucky and find an
overwintering site you could have several river
miles worth of fish concentrated in one spot.
Try cutbait or stinkbait. If you get lucky and find an
overwintering site you could have several river
miles worth of fish concentrated in one spot.
Fish Name Status Comments
Environmental Discovery Park North Pond
This is the main pond at Discovery Park in Muscatine. We will be having a trout release
there this Saturday, November 6, at 10:30 am. 500 rainbow and 50 brook trout will be
released into the pond at that time. Anglers must have a fishing license as well as a trout
stamp (fee). to fish for the trout.
there this Saturday, November 6, at 10:30 am. 500 rainbow and 50 brook trout will be
released into the pond at that time. Anglers must have a fishing license as well as a trout
stamp (fee). to fish for the trout.
Rainbow Trout Excellent Concentrate you efforts in the water around three to
four feet deep as this is what the trout from the
hatchery are most comfortable with. Flashy lures
such as spinners work the best to get their attention
as they get used to the pond.
four feet deep as this is what the trout from the
hatchery are most comfortable with. Flashy lures
such as spinners work the best to get their attention
as they get used to the pond.
Fish Name Status Comments
Wilson Lake
Wilson Lake will be having a trout release this Saturday, November 6, at 1 pm. 500
rainbow trout and 50 brook trout will be released into the lake. Anglers must have a
fishing license and a trout stamp (fee) to fish for the trout.
rainbow trout and 50 brook trout will be released into the lake. Anglers must have a
fishing license and a trout stamp (fee) to fish for the trout.
Rainbow Trout Excellent The trout will be biting this weekend. Spinners and
other flashy lures work the best at first. Target the
water about 4 to 5 foot deep as this is where the
trout will stay until they get used to the lake.
other flashy lures work the best at first. Target the
water about 4 to 5 foot deep as this is where the
trout will stay until they get used to the lake.
Fish Name Status Comments
For more information on the above lakes call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at (319) 694-
2430
2430
MISSISSIPPI
RIVER
RIVER
Mississippi River Pool 19
Tailwater stage at Lock and Dam 18 is 5.91 feet.
Sauger Slow A few anglers have been fishing the tailwaters for
saugers using jigs and minnows. Most of the
saugers have been small.
Crappie Slow Some crappies are being caught in the backwaters
on minnows and jigs.
saugers using jigs and minnows. Most of the
saugers have been small.
Crappie Slow Some crappies are being caught in the backwaters
on minnows and jigs.
Fish Name Status Comments
Mississippi River Pool 18
Tailwater stage at Lock and Dam 17 is 9.64 feet.
Crappie Fair Some crappies are being caught in the backwaters
fishing around brush piles.
Sauger Slow There have been a few reports of anglers trying to
catch some saugers in the tailwaters fishing jigs
and minnows.
Walleye No Report
Channel Catfish Slow
Bluegill Fair Some bluegills are being caught in the backwaters
fishing around brush piles.
fishing around brush piles.
Sauger Slow There have been a few reports of anglers trying to
catch some saugers in the tailwaters fishing jigs
and minnows.
Walleye No Report
Channel Catfish Slow
Bluegill Fair Some bluegills are being caught in the backwaters
fishing around brush piles.
Fish Name Status Comments
Mississippi River Pool 16
Tailwater stage at Lock and Dam 15 is 9.93 feet.
Sauger Slow Sauger fishing in the tailwater has been slow.
Walleye No Report
White Bass Slow
Crappie Good Some crappies are being caught in Sunset Marina
floating small minnows under bobbers. Crappies
are also being caught in the Andalusia Island
complex fishing brush piles with minnows.
Bluegill Fair Some bluegills are being caught in Sunset Marina
on waxworms. The bite seems to be best in the
afternoon.
Walleye No Report
White Bass Slow
Crappie Good Some crappies are being caught in Sunset Marina
floating small minnows under bobbers. Crappies
are also being caught in the Andalusia Island
complex fishing brush piles with minnows.
Bluegill Fair Some bluegills are being caught in Sunset Marina
on waxworms. The bite seems to be best in the
afternoon.
Fish Name Status Comments
Mississippi River Pool 17
Tailwater stage at Lock and Dam 16 is 8.25 feet.
Walleye No Report
Sauger No Report
Crappie Good Crappies are being caught in the backwaters fishing
minnows and jigs around brush piles.
Bluegill Fair Some bluegills are being caught in the backwaters
fishing around brush piles.
Sauger No Report
Crappie Good Crappies are being caught in the backwaters fishing
minnows and jigs around brush piles.
Bluegill Fair Some bluegills are being caught in the backwaters
fishing around brush piles.
Fish Name Status Comments
Mississippi River Pool 13
River stage at Bellevue is 8.24 feet and is forecast to rise to 10.5 feet over the next week.
Water temperatures are in the low 50's and water clarity is fair.
Water temperatures are in the low 50's and water clarity is fair.
Walleye Fair Walleye are biting on the wing dams and the
tailwaters on three-way rigs tipped with minnows,
jigs, or one-eyes.
Sauger Fair Sauger are moving into the tailwaters in Bellevue
and biting on three-way rigs or jigs tipped with
minnows.
Crappie Fair Reports of a few crappie being caught in the
backwaters and sloughs around woody structure.
Bluegill Fair Bluegill are being caught in the backwaters and
sloughs around woody structure.
tailwaters on three-way rigs tipped with minnows,
jigs, or one-eyes.
Sauger Fair Sauger are moving into the tailwaters in Bellevue
and biting on three-way rigs or jigs tipped with
minnows.
Crappie Fair Reports of a few crappie being caught in the
backwaters and sloughs around woody structure.
Bluegill Fair Bluegill are being caught in the backwaters and
sloughs around woody structure.
Fish Name Status Comments
Mississippi River Pool 14
River stage at Camanche is 12.8 feet and is forecast to rise to 13.5 feet over the weekend
then start falling. Water temperatures are in the mid to high 40's and water clarity is fair.
then start falling. Water temperatures are in the mid to high 40's and water clarity is fair.
Walleye Slow A few walleye are being caught on the wing dams
and in the tailwaters.
Sauger Slow Sauger are moving into the tailwaters and biting on
jigs or three-way rigs tipped with minnows.
Crappie Good Good numbers of fish are being caught in Cattail
and Rock Creek.
Bluegill Good Good numbers of fish are being caught in Cattail
and Rock Creek.
and in the tailwaters.
Sauger Slow Sauger are moving into the tailwaters and biting on
jigs or three-way rigs tipped with minnows.
Crappie Good Good numbers of fish are being caught in Cattail
and Rock Creek.
Bluegill Good Good numbers of fish are being caught in Cattail
and Rock Creek.
Fish Name Status Comments
Mississippi River Pools 16-20. River levels have been slowly rising over the past few days.
Tailwater fishing for walleyes and saugers has been slow. Some crappies and bluegills are
being caught in the backwaters. Main channel water temperature is around 47 degrees. For
more fishing information on Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.
Tailwater fishing for walleyes and saugers has been slow. Some crappies and bluegills are
being caught in the backwaters. Main channel water temperature is around 47 degrees. For
more fishing information on Pools 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.
Mississippi River Pool 11
Water levels at Guttenberg is around 11.2 and expected to hold steady through the week.
Water temp is 49 degrees and falling. Water clarity good.
Water temp is 49 degrees and falling. Water clarity good.
Sauger Fair Some sauger are being taken on jig and minnow in
the tailwater. Much of the fishing is taking place in
the pocket and closer to shore then normal due to
the high water levels.
Largemouth Bass Good Many bass are now beginning to concentrate at the
mouths of backwater overwintering areas and they
are feeding heavily. Use a slow presentation with
live bait such as minnows or nightcrawlers for best
results.
the tailwater. Much of the fishing is taking place in
the pocket and closer to shore then normal due to
the high water levels.
Largemouth Bass Good Many bass are now beginning to concentrate at the
mouths of backwater overwintering areas and they
are feeding heavily. Use a slow presentation with
live bait such as minnows or nightcrawlers for best
results.
Fish Name Status Comments
Mississippi River Pool 12
River stage at Dubuque is 12.3 feet and is forecast to rise to 12.6 feet over the weekend,
then begin falling. Water temperatures are in the mid to high 40's and water clarity is fair.
then begin falling. Water temperatures are in the mid to high 40's and water clarity is fair.
Walleye Fair Walleye are biting on the wing dams and in the
tailwaters on three-way rigs tipped with minnows,
crankbaits, or sonars.
Sauger Fair Sauger are moving into the tailwater area and biting
on one-eyes, jigs, or three-way rigs tipped with
minnows.
Crappie Fair Reports of a few crappie being caught in the
marinas around docks and in the backwaters
around woody debris. Minnows and small jigs have
been producing best.
Bluegill Fair Reports of a few bluegill coming out of the
backwaters, marinas, and sloughs around snags or
other structure on crawlers or jigs.
tailwaters on three-way rigs tipped with minnows,
crankbaits, or sonars.
Sauger Fair Sauger are moving into the tailwater area and biting
on one-eyes, jigs, or three-way rigs tipped with
minnows.
Crappie Fair Reports of a few crappie being caught in the
marinas around docks and in the backwaters
around woody debris. Minnows and small jigs have
been producing best.
Bluegill Fair Reports of a few bluegill coming out of the
backwaters, marinas, and sloughs around snags or
other structure on crawlers or jigs.
Fish Name Status Comments
For fishing information in Pool 12-15 of the Mississippi River contact the Bellevue Fish
Management and Research Station at 563-872-4976
Management and Research Station at 563-872-4976
NORTHEAST
Mississippi River Pool 9
Water levels at Lansing on Thursday are at 10.3 and are expected remain high throughout
the next week.
the next week.
Largemouth Bass Good Nice bass are being found in Minnesota Slough and
near DeSoto Bay. Bass are moving into the
overwintering backwater areas. Use a slow
presentation with wa
Yellow Perch Good Some large yellow perch have been caught in the
lansing area mainly using small jigs.
Bluegill Good Bluegills are beginning to move toward their
overwintering areas in deeper backwaters with
minimal current.
near DeSoto Bay. Bass are moving into the
overwintering backwater areas. Use a slow
presentation with wa
Yellow Perch Good Some large yellow perch have been caught in the
lansing area mainly using small jigs.
Bluegill Good Bluegills are beginning to move toward their
overwintering areas in deeper backwaters with
minimal current.
Fish Name Status Comments
Mississippi River Pool 10
Water levels Lynxville, WI are at 20.0 and expected to hold steady throughout the week.
Water temp is around 49 degrees.
Water temp is around 49 degrees.
Largemouth Bass Good Many largemouth bass can now be caught near the
entrances to major backwater complexes. The
Sny Magill backwater areas are good bets for fine
bass fishing. Otherwise try near Mud Hen lake
near Harpers Ferry.
Sauger Fair Small fish are being caught in the tailwater on jigs
and minnow. Fish are moving to location near the
pocket due to the high water conditions.
Bluegill Good Some bluegill and other panfish are beginning to
move into their overwintering areas. Try fishing the
better quality backwaters as fish will pack into these
spots to survive throughout the winter.
entrances to major backwater complexes. The
Sny Magill backwater areas are good bets for fine
bass fishing. Otherwise try near Mud Hen lake
near Harpers Ferry.
Sauger Fair Small fish are being caught in the tailwater on jigs
and minnow. Fish are moving to location near the
pocket due to the high water conditions.
Bluegill Good Some bluegill and other panfish are beginning to
move into their overwintering areas. Try fishing the
better quality backwaters as fish will pack into these
spots to survive throughout the winter.
Fish Name Status Comments
Water levels are high and water temps are in the upper 40's. Water clarity is good in most
locations.
locations.
Wapsi River (Tripoli to Troy Mills)
Fishing has been good on the Upper Wapsi for walleye, smallmouth bass and northern
pike.
pike.
Smallmouth Bass Good Try casting a jig and twister tail tipped with a
minnow near rock shorlines this time of year.
Walleye Good Anglers have been taking walleye on jigs tipped
with a minnow or night crawler. Concentrate on
areas near deeper water as walleye seek
overwintering areas.
Northern Pike Good Anglers have been doing well on northerns casting
artificial spoons and spinners or fishing live chubs
under a bobber.
minnow near rock shorlines this time of year.
Walleye Good Anglers have been taking walleye on jigs tipped
with a minnow or night crawler. Concentrate on
areas near deeper water as walleye seek
overwintering areas.
Northern Pike Good Anglers have been doing well on northerns casting
artificial spoons and spinners or fishing live chubs
under a bobber.
Fish Name Status Comments
Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City)
The Cedar River remains good for walleye and smallmouth bass.
Walleye Good Jigs tipped with a minnow or night crawler has been
very productive on walleyes. Anglers are also
having success casting crankbaits.
Smallmouth Bass Fair Live baits, spinner baits and crankbaits have all
been working well for smallmouth bass.
Concentrate around areas with rock shorelines or
fallen trees.
very productive on walleyes. Anglers are also
having success casting crankbaits.
Smallmouth Bass Fair Live baits, spinner baits and crankbaits have all
been working well for smallmouth bass.
Concentrate around areas with rock shorelines or
fallen trees.
Fish Name Status Comments
Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock)
Reports have been good for walleye and smallmouth bass on the Shell Rock River.
Walleye Good Try using as light of jig as possible tipped with a
minnow or leech bounced off of the bottom.
Smallmouth Bass Good Both artificial & live baits have been working well for
smallmouth bass.
minnow or leech bounced off of the bottom.
Smallmouth Bass Good Both artificial & live baits have been working well for
smallmouth bass.
Fish Name Status Comments
Charles City Impoundment
Walleyes have been improving their bite. Most fish are being caught on jigs and crawlers.
Walleye Fair Anglers are catching a few fish on jigs and
crawlers.
crawlers.
Fish Name Status Comments
Volga Lake
Angling activity has tapered off this week. New habitat was put into Volga lake recently
and should be holding fish.
and should be holding fish.
Largemouth Bass Slow
Bluegill Slow
Bluegill Slow
Fish Name Status Comments
Lake Hendricks
Not much fishing activity happening on the lake.
Lake Meyer
Angler activity has slowed. Water clarity is excellent.
Maquoketa River (above Monticello)
Fishing has been good for walleye and smallmouth bass on the Maquoketa River in and
around Manchester. The month of October can be dynamite for smallmouth bass this time
of year.
around Manchester. The month of October can be dynamite for smallmouth bass this time
of year.
Walleye Good Try using a small jig tipped with a minnow now that
water temperatures have cooled down.
Smallmouth Bass Good Try casting spinnerbaits or crankbaits for these
aggressive fish this time of year.
water temperatures have cooled down.
Smallmouth Bass Good Try casting spinnerbaits or crankbaits for these
aggressive fish this time of year.
Fish Name Status Comments
Fishing has been good for walleye and smallmouth bass on the interior rivers. The month of
October is an excellent time to be fishing as they actively feed with the onset of winter.
Fishing in area lakes has slowed as we approach November conditions. For more information
call the N.E. District Office @ 563-927-3276.
October is an excellent time to be fishing as they actively feed with the onset of winter.
Fishing in area lakes has slowed as we approach November conditions. For more information
call the N.E. District Office @ 563-927-3276.
Cedar River (above Nashua)
Anglers have been getting antsy for the bite to turn on as water temperatures are
approaching 47 degrees. The catfish bite has temporarily shut off.
approaching 47 degrees. The catfish bite has temporarily shut off.
Walleye Slow A few walleye are being caught on jigs tipped with a
minnow or worm.
Crappie Slow
minnow or worm.
Crappie Slow
Fish Name Status Comments
Decorah District Streams
Even though streams are not being stocked, there are plenty of fish to be caught. Insect
hatches are still occurring and water quality is excellent. Trout have been aggressive. An
abundance of brown and brook trout redds are being seen in the stream bottoms. There
continues to be a great many nice fall days to get out and wander the counry sides for fish
and wildlife.
hatches are still occurring and water quality is excellent. Trout have been aggressive. An
abundance of brown and brook trout redds are being seen in the stream bottoms. There
continues to be a great many nice fall days to get out and wander the counry sides for fish
and wildlife.
Upper Iowa River (above Decorah)
Fish are moving into their overwintering holes.
Walleye Fair
Smallmouth Bass Fair
Smallmouth Bass Fair
Fish Name Status Comments
Upper Iowa River (below Decorah)
Target walleye and small mouth bass overwintering holes. Fish have been aggressive.
Anglers are using jigs and twisters while paddling over the deeper holes.
Anglers are using jigs and twisters while paddling over the deeper holes.
Walleye Good
Smallmouth Bass Excellent
Smallmouth Bass Excellent
Fish Name Status Comments
NORTHWEST
Brushy Creek Lake
Water clarity at Brushy Creek is excellent.
Largemouth Bass Slow Fish with plastics or night crawlers. Cast near
submerged trees or weed beds.
Muskellunge Slow
Bluegill Slow Fish around submerged trees with a small lure
baited with a wax worm. Experiment with different
depths.
submerged trees or weed beds.
Muskellunge Slow
Bluegill Slow Fish around submerged trees with a small lure
baited with a wax worm. Experiment with different
depths.
Fish Name Status Comments
Rice Lake
Anglers are having good success catching yellow perch from shore. A piece of crawler on
a jig are what most anglers are using. Try fishing around the boat ramps or the beach.
a jig are what most anglers are using. Try fishing around the boat ramps or the beach.
Clear Lake
Fishing has been slow, try multiple spots to find the fish.
For more information on fishing in the area lakes and rivers, call us at the Clear Lake
Fisheries Office at (641) 357-3517.
River levels are looking good for this time of year and clarity is excellent. Trout streams are
no longer being stocked with catchable fish but stream conditions are excellent. For more
information about a specific stream or river, please call the Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382
-8324.
Fisheries Office at (641) 357-3517.
River levels are looking good for this time of year and clarity is excellent. Trout streams are
no longer being stocked with catchable fish but stream conditions are excellent. For more
information about a specific stream or river, please call the Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563-382
-8324.
Black Hawk Lake
The Ice House Point area has been reopened for public use. There is a newly constructed
bike path that runs along the edge of the shoreline at Ice House Point. On Black Hawk
Lake walleye must be at least 15 inches in length to keep and only three per day may be
kept.
bike path that runs along the edge of the shoreline at Ice House Point. On Black Hawk
Lake walleye must be at least 15 inches in length to keep and only three per day may be
kept.
Bluegill Good Anglers are catching nice size bluegill from the
stone piers in town bay. Use small jigs tipped with
bait.
stone piers in town bay. Use small jigs tipped with
bait.
Fish Name Status Comments
Storm Lake (incl Little Storm Lake)
Boaters use caution: There is an ongoing dredging project at Storm Lake and boats should
stay at least 100 feet away from the dredge pipe. The dredge pipe is marked with buoys.
Daily bag limit at Storm Lake is 3 walleye: all 17 to 22 inch walleye must be immediately
released, only one walleye over 22 inches may be kept.
stay at least 100 feet away from the dredge pipe. The dredge pipe is marked with buoys.
Daily bag limit at Storm Lake is 3 walleye: all 17 to 22 inch walleye must be immediately
released, only one walleye over 22 inches may be kept.
White Bass Slow Most of the white bass being caught are being
picked up while walleye fishing.
Walleye Slow Walleye fishing continues to be hit or miss right
now. The bite seems to turn on for an hour or so at
certain times of the morning and evening and then
shuts off. Most anglers have been targeting the
inlet to the lake and the east shoreline near the
public boat ramp. Anglers have been using twisters
and spinners and many are fishing at night.
picked up while walleye fishing.
Walleye Slow Walleye fishing continues to be hit or miss right
now. The bite seems to turn on for an hour or so at
certain times of the morning and evening and then
shuts off. Most anglers have been targeting the
inlet to the lake and the east shoreline near the
public boat ramp. Anglers have been using twisters
and spinners and many are fishing at night.
Fish Name Status Comments
North Twin Lake
Anglers are still doing well for yellow bass with a few nice walleye mixed in.
Yellow Bass Good Anglers have been catching yellow bass casting
small bright colored jigs tipped with a small piece of
bait. Try fishing the windward shore and fishing off
the bulrushes at Featherstone Park. Keep moving
around until you find the fish. Once they quite
biting in an area, move around again until you find
more.
Walleye Slow Some walleye have been caught while fishing for
yellow bass.
small bright colored jigs tipped with a small piece of
bait. Try fishing the windward shore and fishing off
the bulrushes at Featherstone Park. Keep moving
around until you find the fish. Once they quite
biting in an area, move around again until you find
more.
Walleye Slow Some walleye have been caught while fishing for
yellow bass.
Fish Name Status Comments
Browns Lake
Brown's Lake received a stocking of 2,650 six inch walleye from the DNR four weeks
ago.
ago.
For more information on the lakes and rivers in this area contact Ben Wallace or Don Herrig
at the Black Hawk Fish Management Office in Lake View at 712-657-2638.