| Most area lakes are completely ice free allowing for anglers to fish by boat. Only a few permanent courtesy docks are in and useable. The Walleye season on the IGL's is closed until May 3rd. For the most up to date information, call 712-330-2542 |
| The lake is ice free. |
| Walleye - Fair: Anglers have had some success in the morning and afternoon. |
In the last few years, Ingham has been a hit and miss fishery. During spring, fall, and winter times, anglers have been able to catch quality sized walleye and black crappie. During the summer months, fishing has been much slower. A comprehensive fishery survey was completed during the 2024 season consisting of spring electrofishing and fall fyke netting. During spring electrofishing, the majority of the fish observed were adult big mouth buffalo and common carp. Fall fyke netting surveys produced a wider range of species, namely black bullhead, black crappie, orangespotted sunfish, yellow perch, and walleye. Thousands of yellow perch (Avg Length(in) 5.29), orangespotted sunfish (Avg Length(in) 3.17) and black bullhead (Avg Length(in) 4.09) were observed. A large year-class of quality sized fish were observed as well as a few 11+ in. individuals. This year class of fish should provide opportunities for anglers to catch preferred sized fish in coming year. Numerous 16+ in. walleye were fyke netted allowing anglers the chance at many quality individuals. A large year-class of young 6-9 in. walleye was also observed. These young fish should grow quickly and provide many angling opportunities in the coming years.(2024)
In nearly all cases, Iowa fish are safe to eat. Cleaning and/or preparing the meal causes most of the problems regarding taste or color of fish. Like all living creatures, fish are susceptible to diseases, parasites, and other naturally occurring conditions in the water. If you suspect your fish is affected by any of these conditions, do not eat it. Consider eating smaller and younger fish which usually have lower levels of contaminants than larger ones. Most contaminants accumulate in larger, older fish. For additional information, check out our resources for eating and cooking Iowa caught fish.
To learn more about fish tissue monitoring, visit our Fish Tissue Monitoring page .