Please contact the local fisheries management biologist for current information.
Following renovation in 2020, the Bluegill fishery in Mariposa Lake has had a slow return to good fishing. The lake was restocked in 2020 with Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Black Crappie and Channel Catfish. Bluegills surveyed in 2025 were still 4.5- to 6-inches. Black Crappie numbers increased in 2025 and are reaching fair sizes from 8.5- to 9.5-inches. Largemouth Bass are doing well and were seen in four size groups of 8- to 10-inches, 11- to 12.5-inches, 13.5- to 15-inches and 17- to 19-inches. Channel Catfish were not targeted in 2025 surveys, but were 8- to 22.5-inches in 2024. - Last updated on 01/02/2026.
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 .
The summaries listed below are a partial listing provided for your benefit. Familiarize yourself with the complete Fishing Regulations here: Iowa DNR Fishing Regulations and Laws.