Fish Iowa - Fishing Report - Search


This page includes current fishing reports by fisheries region and management district. Lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams are listed by name and county, and can be easily searched using the search-and-filter tool below. Explore by location name, fish species, and various amenities available at the location to help you find your next fishing adventure!

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Bellevue Management District (Mississippi River Region)

  • Contact Person: Dave Bierman - 563-580-0685
  • Comments: Water levels are steady to slightly rising across the district. Water temperatures are in the mid-60s across the district. Water clarity continues to improve. Call your local bait shops for the most current information. Last updated on 10/15/2026
  • Water Temperature (°F): 65.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water level is around 4.9 feet at the Dubuque tailwater and is steady to slightly rising. Water clarity has improved, but there is a lot of duckweed on the surface in many areas. Call your local DNR Fisheries office or local bait shops for the latest information. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Black Crappie - Slow
Comment: Use a small jig and plastic combination or a live minnow rig in backwater areas with woody structure. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Bluegill - Slow
Comment: Try a piece of nightcrawler under a bobber or a small jig in areas with woody structure in backwater areas or in marinas. Last updated on 09/24/2026

Channel Catfish - Fair
Comment: Use dip baits or live bait in areas with woody structure like stump fields and brush piles in side channels or along current seams. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Freshwater Drum - Fair
Comment: Use a simple sinker and nightcrawler rig in areas with moderate current or in the tailwater. Anglers are catching freshwater drum on crankbaits and blade baits. Last updated on 10/08/2026

Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Use spinnerbaits or in-line spinners along vegetation lines in backwater areas, or along areas with rip-rap. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Northern Pike - Slow
Comment: Try large and flashy spinnerbaits or inline spinners along weedlines in backwater areas. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Sauger - Fair
Comment: Try a three-way rig with live bait or blade baits in the tailwaters. The sauger bite is slowly improving and should get better in the coming weeks. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Smallmouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Throw inline spinners or crankbaits along rocky areas with some current/current breaks. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Walleye - Slow
Comment: Try a three-way rig with live bait on the wing-dams or in the tailwaters. Expect walleye fishing to improve in the coming weeks. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Yellow Perch - Slow
Comment: Look for the yellow perch bite to improve as water temperatures cool. Focus on dying vegetation lines. Last updated on 10/01/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 65.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water level is around 4.5 feet at the Bellevue tailwater and is steady to slowly rising. Water clarity is fair. Call your local DNR Fisheries office or local bait shops for the latest information. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Black Crappie - Slow
Comment: Use a small jig and plastic combination or a live minnow rig in backwater areas with woody structure. Last updated on 09/24/2026

Bluegill - Slow
Comment: Try a piece of nightcrawler under a bobber or a small jig in areas with woody structure in backwater areas or in marinas. Last updated on 09/24/2026

Channel Catfish - Good
Comment: Use dip baits or live bait in areas with woody structure like stump fields and brush piles in side channels or along current seams. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Flathead Catfish - Slow
Comment: Anglers are catching a few flatheads in the tailwater on blade baits. Last updated on 10/08/2026

Freshwater Drum - Good
Comment: Use a simple sinker and nightcrawler rig in areas with moderate current or in the tailwater. Anglers are catching freshwater drum on crankbaits and blade baits. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Use spinnerbaits or in-line spinners along vegetation lines in backwater areas or along areas with rip-rap. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Northern Pike - Slow
Comment: Try large and flashy spinnerbaits or inline spinners along weedlines in backwater areas. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Sauger - Fair
Comment: Try a three-way rig with live bait or blade baits in the tailwaters. The sauger bite is slowly improving and should get better in the coming weeks. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Smallmouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Throw inline spinners or crankbaits along rocky areas with some current/current breaks. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Walleye - Slow
Comment: Try a three-way rig with live bait on the wing-dams or in the tailwaters. Expect walleye fishing to improve in the coming weeks. Last updated on 10/15/2026

White Bass - Fair
Comment: Anglers are catching white bass in the tailwaters on one-eyes or blade baits. Last updated on 10/08/2026

White Crappie - Slow
Comment: Use a small jig and plastic combination or a live minnow rig in side channel areas with woody structure. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 66.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water level is around 4.7 feet at Lock and Dam 13 and is steady to slightly rising. Water temperatures remain in the mid-60s. Water clarity is has improved. Call your local bait shops for the most current information. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Use a small jig and plastic combination or a live minnow rig in side channel areas with woody structure. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Bluegill - Fair
Comment: Try a piece of nightcrawler under a bobber or a small jig in areas with woody structure along the edges of side channels or in backwater areas. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Channel Catfish - Fair
Comment: Use dip baits or live bait in areas with woody structure like stump fields and brush piles in side channels or along current seams. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Use spinnerbaits or in-line spinners along vegetation lines in backwater areas or along areas with rip-rap. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Sauger - Fair
Comment: Try a three-way rig with live bait on the wing-dams or in the tailwaters. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Walleye - Slow
Comment: Try a three-way rig with live bait on the wing-dams or in the tailwaters. Look for walleye fishing to improve as the water temperature continues to drop. Last updated on 10/08/2026

White Crappie - Slow
Comment: Use a small jig and plastic combination or a live minnow rig in side channel areas with woody structure. Last updated on 09/24/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 68.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water level is around 4.4 feet at Lock and Dam 14 and is holding fairly steady. Water temperature has risen slighlty since last week. Call your local bait shops for the most current information. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Channel Catfish - Fair
Comment: Use dip baits or live bait in areas with woody structure or along current breaks. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Freshwater Drum - Good
Comment: Use a simple sinker and nightcrawler rig in areas with moderate current or in the tailwater. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Walleye - Slow
Comment: Try a three-way rig with live bait on the wing-dams or in the tailwaters. Look for walleye fishing to improve as the water temperature continues to drop. Last updated on 10/08/2026


Fairport Management District (Mississippi River Region)

  • Contact Person: Adam Thiese - 563-263-5062
  • Comments: Mississippi River Pools 16-19: Tailwater stages are falling and forecast to keep falling over the weekend. Water clarity is poor. Main channel water temperature is 63-65 degrees. Fishing is slow with the muddy water conditions. Last updated on 10/08/2026
  • Water Temperature (°F): 65.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Tailwater stage has reached 6.60 feet at Lock and Dam 15 in Davenport. Flood stage is 15 feet. Tailwater stage is forecast to keep falling over the weekend. River stage is 10.59 feet at Fairport; flood stage is 14 feet. Fishing will be difficult with the rising and muddy water conditions. Last updated on 10/08/2026
Channel Catfish - Status Unsure
Comment: Try fishing for channel catfish on the upstream side of snags along the main channel and side channels or along the upstream side of the wing-dams. Use dip baits, nightcrawlers, or cut shad fished on the bottom. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Walleye - Slow
Comment: Walleye fishing is slow with the muddy water conditions. Try three-way rigs with half a nightcrawler or troll crankbaits on the wing-dams. We have not received any reports for tailwater fishing. Last updated on 10/08/2026

White Crappie - Status Unsure
Comment: Try vertical jigging with minnows or floating minnows under a bobber around brush piles in the backwaters and side channels. . Last updated on 09/23/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 64.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Tailwater stage is 5.36 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine. Tailwater stage is forecast to fall over the weekend. Flood stage is 15 feet. Fishing will be difficult with the muddy water conditions. Last updated on 10/08/2026
Channel Catfish - Status Unsure
Comment: Try fishing for channel catfish on the upstream side of snags along the main channel and side channels or along the upstream side of the wing-dams. Use dip baits, nightcrawlers, or cut shad fished on the bottom. Last updated on 09/23/2026

Walleye - Slow
Comment: Walleye fishing is slow with the muddy water conditions. Try three-way rigs with half a nightcrawler or troll crankbaits on the wing-dams. We have not received any reports for walleye fishing in the tailwaters. Last updated on 10/08/2026

White Crappie - Status Unsure
Comment: Try vertical jigging with minnows or floating minnows under a bobber around brush piles in the backwaters and side channels. . Last updated on 09/23/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 63.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Tailwater stage is 9.09 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston. Tailwater stage is forecast to keep falling over the weekend. Flood stage is 15 feet. Fishing will be difficult with the muddy water conditions. Last updated on 10/08/2026
Channel Catfish - Status Unsure
Comment: Try fishing for channel catfish on the upstream side of snags along the main channel and side channels or along the upstream side of the wing-dams. Use dip baits, nightcrawlers, or cut shad fished on the bottom. Last updated on 09/23/2026

Walleye - Slow
Comment: Walleye fishing will be difficult with the high and muddy water conditions. Use three-way rigs with half a nightcrawler or troll crankbaits on the wing-dams. We have not received any tailwater walleye fishing reports. . Last updated on 09/23/2026

White Crappie - Status Unsure
Comment: Try vertical jigging with minnows or floating minnows under a bobber around brush piles in the backwaters and side channels. . Last updated on 09/23/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 64.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Tailwater stage is 6.41 feet at Lock and Dam 18 above Burlington and is forecast to keep falling over the weekend. Flood stage is 10 feet. River stage is 12.11 feet at Burlington; flood stage is 15 feet. River stage is 526.62 feet at Fort Madison; flood stage is 528.0 feet. Fishing will be difficult with the muddy water conditions. Last updated on 10/08/2026
Channel Catfish - Status Unsure
Comment: Try fishing for channel catfish on the upstream side of snags along the main channel and side channels or along the upstream side of the wing-dams. Use dip baits, nightcrawlers, or cut shad fished on the bottom. Last updated on 09/23/2026

Walleye - Status Unsure
Comment: Walleye fishing will be difficult with the muddy water conditions. Try three-way rigs with half a nightcrawler or troll crankbaits on the wing-dams. We have not received any tailwater fishing reports for walleyes. Last updated on 10/08/2026

White Crappie - Status Unsure
Comment: Try vertical jigging with minnows or floating minnows under a bobber around brush piles in the backwaters and side channels. . Last updated on 09/23/2026


Guttenberg Management District (Mississippi River Region)

  • Contact Person: Karen Osterkamp - 563-252-1156
  • Comments: Upper Mississippi water levels are expected to bump up slightly then level off this week. Clarity is fair with abundant floating vegetation. Water temperature has dropped into the mid to upper 60s. Fish are on their fall feeding patterns before they transition to their overwintering habitat. Try fishing along wood or rock structure and edges of vegetation lines. Last updated on 10/15/2026
  • Water Temperature (°F): 65.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: River level is expected to remain stable near 7.8 feet at Lansing. Look for fish along the weedlines in backwaters. **Reminder: Crews are working on the Blackhawk Bridge at Lansing. Boaters should use caution in the construction zone. Please slow down for everyone's safety. Last updated on 10/14/2026
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Crappie bite is improving. Use light tackle in 4-6 feet of water in trees and stumps in slight current. . Last updated on 10/15/2026

Bluegill - Good
Comment: Use a small piece of worm under a bobber near the mouths of backwaters as bluegill begin staging toward their overwintering areas. . Last updated on 10/01/2026

Channel Catfish - Good
Comment: Channel cats are still actively feeding into late fall. Jig a worm on the bottom in slow to moderate current eddies in side channels or main channel borders. . Last updated on 10/01/2026

Freshwater Drum - Excellent
Comment: Try nightcrawlers weighted on the bottom in moderate current. . Last updated on 10/01/2026

Largemouth Bass - Good
Comment: Largemouth fall feeding is underway. Cast plastics or buzz-baits along thick vegetation in upper portions of backwaters. . Last updated on 10/01/2026

Sauger - Fair
Comment: A few sauger are moving upstream toward the Lock & Dam tailwaters. . Last updated on 10/08/2026

Smallmouth Bass - Excellent
Comment: Smallmouth bass are prepping for winter and actively feeding along main channel. Use inline spinner-baits along rip-rap. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Walleye - Good
Comment: The walleye bite is picking up as they move upstream toward the Lock & Dam tailwaters. . Last updated on 10/08/2026

Yellow Perch - Fair
Comment: Jig small lures or drop shot live bait along the weedlines in backwater lakes. Last updated on 10/01/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 65.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water level is 612.5 feet below Lock and Dam 9, Lynxville; will bump up slightly then level off this week. Water clarity is stained. Try fishing the weedlines in the clearer water in backwater lakes. Tailwater fishing is starting to pick up. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Crappie bite is improving. Use light tackle in 4-6 feet of water in trees and stumps in slight current. . Last updated on 10/15/2026

Bluegill - Good
Comment: Use a small piece of worm under a bobber near the mouths of backwaters as bluegill begin staging toward their overwintering areas. . Last updated on 10/01/2026

Channel Catfish - Good
Comment: Channel cats are still actively feeding into late fall. Jig a worm on the bottom in slow to moderate current eddies in side channels or main channel borders. . Last updated on 10/01/2026

Freshwater Drum - Excellent
Comment: Try nightcrawlers weighted on the bottom in moderate current. . Last updated on 10/01/2026

Largemouth Bass - Good
Comment: Largemouth fall feeding is underway. Cast plastics or buzz-baits along thick vegetation in upper portions of backwaters. . Last updated on 10/01/2026

Sauger - Fair
Comment: A few sauger are moving upstream toward the Lock & Dam tailwaters. . Last updated on 10/08/2026

Smallmouth Bass - Excellent
Comment: Smallmouth bass are prepping for winter and actively feeding along main channel. Use inline spinner-baits along rip-rap. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Walleye - Fair
Comment: The walleye bite is picking up as they move upstream toward the Lock & Dam tailwaters. Last updated on 10/14/2026

Yellow Perch - Fair
Comment: Jig small lures or drop shot live bait along the weedlines in backwater lakes. Last updated on 10/01/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 65.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water level has dropped to 4.5 feet and is expected to fall slowly after a small bump at Guttenberg, Lock & Dam10 tailwaters. Water clarity is slightly stained. Fishing in the tailwater areas picked up last week. Last updated on 10/14/2026
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Crappie bite is improving. Use light tackle in 4-6 feet of water in trees and stumps in slight current. . Last updated on 10/15/2026

Bluegill - Good
Comment: Use a small piece of worm under a bobber near the mouths of backwaters as bluegill begin staging toward their overwintering areas. . Last updated on 10/01/2026

Channel Catfish - Good
Comment: Channel cats are still actively feeding into late fall. Jig a worm on the bottom in slow to moderate current eddies in side channels or main channel borders. . Last updated on 10/01/2026

Freshwater Drum - Excellent
Comment: Try nightcrawlers weighted on the bottom in moderate current. . Last updated on 10/01/2026

Largemouth Bass - Good
Comment: Largemouth fall feeding is underway. Cast plastics or buzz-baits along thick vegetation in upper portions of backwaters. . Last updated on 10/01/2026

Sauger - Good
Comment: A few sauger are moving upstream toward the Lock & Dam tailwaters. . Last updated on 10/08/2026

Smallmouth Bass - Excellent
Comment: Smallmouth bass are prepping for winter and actively feeding along main channel. Use inline spinner-baits along rip-rap. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Walleye - Good
Comment: The walleye bite is picking up as they move upstream toward the Lock & Dam tailwaters . . Last updated on 10/08/2026

Yellow Perch - Fair
Comment: Jig small lures or drop shot live bait along the weedlines in backwater lakes. Last updated on 10/01/2026


Decorah Management District (Northeast Region)

  • Contact Person: Caleb Schnitzler - 563-382-8324
  • Comments: Highs in the 50s with lows in the low 40s create mild, comfortable fishing weather. Rain chances end and are replaced with breezy conditions by the start of the weekend. Area rivers and streams remain elevated for this time of year. Fall leaf color is reaching it's peak, creating an extra bonus to your fishing trip. Last updated on 10/15/2026
  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Trout stream water levels are elevated, but clear. Try fishing the deep pools, runs, and undercut banks. Hunting seasons are open. Wear a blaze orange hat or vest when walking to and from streams on Wildlife Management Areas to help hunters see you. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Brook Trout - Slow
Comment: Brookies love to ambush land bugs from inside aquatic weed pockets. Aim for the 2-inch gap between the weed bed and the open current channel. Use a reach cast to lay the line across the current to get a few extra seconds of drift. A large variety of terrestrial insects are hatching with the warmer weather. Matching the hatch is vital to success. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Brown Trout - Good
Comment: Late summer to early fall is prime time for fishing terrestrials. Land insects constantly get blown or knocked into clear, low-water streams. Drift terrestrial flies within inches of the grass line where trout sit waiting for land bugs to tumble in. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Rainbow Trout - Excellent
Comment: Freshly stocked rainbows hungry for a hook tipped with a small piece of worm, cheese, or dough ball will fill a limit quickly. For anglers interested in catch and release, use flies imitating crickets, grasshoppers, midges, scuds, mayflies, or caddis flies. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water levels are falling, but remain higher than normal for this time of year. Water clarity is excellent. Water temperature is in the 60s. For more information, visit https://water.noaa.gov/gauges/05457700. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Black Crappie - Excellent
Comment: Find crappie near snags in backwater areas. Try a small spinner or crankbait. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Channel Catfish - Fair
Comment: Use worms, dead chubs or minnows under a bobber near the bottom. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Smallmouth Bass - Excellent
Comment: Find smallmouth along rocky shorelines or limestone ledges as they move to deeper water. Try a variety of lures. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Walleye - Excellent
Comment: Use a jig with a live minnow or nightcrawler in a deeper pool near the stream bottom. Try fishing sunrise and sunset on clear days. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Trout stream water levels are elevated, but clear. Try fishing the deep pools, runs, and undercut banks. Hunting seasons are open. Wear a blaze orange hat or vest when walking to and from streams on Wildlife Management Areas to help hunters see you. . Last updated on 10/15/2026
Brook Trout - Slow
Comment: Brookies love to ambush land bugs from inside aquatic weed pockets. Aim for the 2-inch gap between the weed bed and the open current channel. Use a reach cast to lay the line across the current to get a few extra seconds of drift. A large variety of terrestrial insects are hatching with the warmer weather. Matching the hatch is vital to success. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Brown Trout - Good
Comment: Late summer to early fall is prime time for fishing terrestrials. Land insects constantly get blown or knocked into clear, low-water streams. Drift terrestrial flies within inches of the grass line where trout sit waiting for land bugs to tumble in. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Rainbow Trout - Excellent
Comment: Freshly stocked rainbows hungry for a hook tipped with a small piece of worm, cheese, or dough ball will fill a limit quickly. For anglers interested in catch and release, use flies imitating crickets, grasshoppers, midges, scuds, mayflies, or caddis flies. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Trout stream water levels are elevated, but clear. Try fishing the deep pools, runs, and undercut banks. Hunting seasons are open. Wear a blaze orange hat or vest when walking to and from streams on Wildlife Management Areas to help hunters see you. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Brown Trout - Good
Comment: Late summer to early fall is prime time for fishing terrestrials. Land insects constantly get blown or knocked into clear, low-water streams. Drift terrestrial flies within inches of the grass line where trout sit waiting for land bugs to tumble in. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Rainbow Trout - Excellent
Comment: Freshly stocked rainbows hungry for a hook tipped with a small piece of worm, cheese, or dough ball will fill a limit quickly. For anglers interested in catch and release, use flies imitating crickets, grasshoppers, midges, scuds, mayflies, or caddis flies. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water clarity is good to excellent. Water temperature is in the low 60s. The bite should improve as water temperatures continue to fall. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Black Crappie - Good
Comment: Find crappie around submersed or downed trees or logs. Try a small spinner or crankbait. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Bluegill - Good
Comment: Continue to use small jigs tipped with a waxworm, spike, or very small piece of a nightcrawler along rocky structure or woody debris. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Channel Catfish - Fair
Comment: Use worms, dead chubs or minnows, or stink bait under a bobber near the bottom. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Largemouth Bass - Good
Comment: Toss a crank or spinner bait along a rocky shoreline or drop-off. Keep tension on the line to prevent losing your lure. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water clarity is good to excellent. Water temperature is in the low 60s. The bite should improve as water temperatures continue to fall. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Black Crappie - Good
Comment: Find crappie around submersed or downed trees or logs. Try a small spinner or crankbait. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Bluegill - Good
Comment: Continue to use small jigs tipped with a waxworm, spike, or very small piece of a nightcrawler along rocky structure or woody debris. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Channel Catfish - Fair
Comment: Use worms, dead chubs or minnows, or stink bait under a bobber near the bottom. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Largemouth Bass - Good
Comment: Toss a crank or spinner bait along a rocky shoreline or drop-off. Keep tension on the line to prevent losing your lure. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Northern Pike - Slow
Comment: Pike are ambush predators with an attitude. Target structure with a spoon or hair jig to tease this feisty fish. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Trout stream water levels are elevated, but clear. Try fishing the deep pools, runs, and undercut banks. Hunting seasons are open. Wear a blaze orange hat or vest when walking to and from streams on Wildlife Management Areas to help hunters see you. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Brown Trout - Good
Comment: Late summer to early fall is prime time for fishing terrestrials. Land insects constantly get blown or knocked into clear, low-water streams. Drift terrestrial flies within inches of the grass line where trout sit waiting for land bugs to tumble in. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Rainbow Trout - Excellent
Comment: Freshly stocked rainbows hungry for a hook tipped with a small piece of worm, cheese, or dough ball will fill a limit quickly. For anglers interested in catch and release, use flies imitating crickets, grasshoppers, midges, scuds, mayflies, or caddis flies. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water levels are falling, but remain higher than normal for this time of year. Water clarity is excellent. Water temperature is in the 60s. For more information, visit https://waterdata.usgs.gov/monitoring-location/USGS-05411850. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Smallmouth Bass - Excellent
Comment: Find smallmouth along rocky shorelines or limestone ledges as they move to deeper water. Try a variety of lures. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Walleye - Excellent
Comment: Use a jig with a live minnow or nightcrawler in a deeper pool near the stream bottom. Try fishing sunrise and sunset on clear days. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water levels are falling, but remain higher than normal for this time of year. Water clarity is excellent. Water temperature is in the 60s. For more information, visit https://waterdata.usgs.gov/monitoring-location/USGS-05387500. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Rainbow Trout - Good
Comment: Rainbows are hitting lures imitating minnows near the mouth of trout streams. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Smallmouth Bass - Excellent
Comment: Find smallmouth along rocky shorelines or limestone ledges as they move to deeper water. Try a variety of lures. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Walleye - Excellent
Comment: Use a jig with a live minnow or nightcrawler in a deeper pool near the stream bottom. Try fishing sunrise and sunset on clear days. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water levels are falling, but remain higher than normal for this time of year. Water clarity is excellent. Water temperature is in the 60s. . Last updated on 10/15/2026
Smallmouth Bass - Excellent
Comment: Find smallmouth along rocky shorelines or limestone ledges as they move to deeper water. Try a variety of lures. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Walleye - Excellent
Comment: Use a jig with a live minnow or nightcrawler in a deeper pool near the stream bottom. Try fishing sunrise and sunset on clear days. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water clarity is good to excellent. Water temperature is in the low 60s. The bite should improve as water temperatures continue to fall. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Black Crappie - Good
Comment: Find crappie around submersed or downed trees or logs. Try a small spinner or crankbait. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Bluegill - Good
Comment: Continue to use small jigs tipped with a waxworm, spike, or very small piece of a nightcrawler along rocky structure or woody debris. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Channel Catfish - Fair
Comment: Use worms, dead chubs or minnows, or stink bait under a bobber near the bottom. Trophy catfish abound in this waterbody. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Largemouth Bass - Good
Comment: Toss a crank or spinner bait along a rocky shoreline or drop-off. Keep tension on the line to prevent losing your lure. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Trout stream water levels are elevated, but clear. Try fishing the deep pools, runs, and undercut banks. Hunting seasons are open. Wear a blaze orange hat or vest when walking to and from streams on Wildlife Management Areas to help hunters see you. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Brook Trout - Slow
Comment: Brookies love to ambush land bugs from inside aquatic weed pockets. Aim for the 2-inch gap between the weed bed and the open current channel. Use a reach cast to lay the line across the current to get a few extra seconds of drift. A large variety of terrestrial insects are hatching with the warmer weather. Matching the hatch is vital to success. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Brown Trout - Good
Comment: Late summer to early fall is prime time for fishing terrestrials. Land insects constantly get blown or knocked into clear, low-water streams. Drift terrestrial flies within inches of the grass line where trout sit waiting for land bugs to tumble in. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Rainbow Trout - Excellent
Comment: Freshly stocked rainbows hungry for a hook tipped with a small piece of worm, cheese, or dough ball will fill a limit quickly. For anglers interested in catch and release, use flies imitating crickets, grasshoppers, midges, scuds, mayflies, or caddis flies. Last updated on 10/15/2026


Manchester Management District (Northeast Region)

  • Contact Person: Dan Kirby - 563-927-3276
  • Comments: Most interior river water levels continue to fall and are producing good catches of walleye and smallmouth bass. Local area lakes in and around Cedar Falls/Waterloo are fair for panfish and largemouth bass. Water temperatures are in the lower 60s. Trout streams in Clayton, Dubuque, Delaware and Jackson counties are in good to excellent condition. Contact your local area bait and tackle shops for current and most up to date reports. Note: Dalton Pond in Jackson County will no longer be stocked with trout by the Iowa DNR and is closed to public fishing. Dalton Pond is private property that was under lease for public fishing and the lease was not renewed. Last updated on 10/15/2026
  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Spring Branch Creek within Baileys Ford Park is in good condition. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Rainbow Trout - Good
Comment: Cast and retrieve flashy spinner blades or smaller bead heads. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: The Big Mill Wildlife Management area is popular amongst anglers for both rainbow and brown trout. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Brown Trout - Fair
Comment: Match the hatch with the upcoming forecast of warmer weather. Grasshopper patterns are a great choice for mid-day action. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Rainbow Trout - Good
Comment: Cast and retrieve flashy spinner blades or smaller bead heads. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: River levels are falling on the Cedar River in Black Hawk County. Anglers are doing very well on smallmouth bass and walleye. River conditions should be very favorable by this weekend. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Smallmouth Bass - Good
Comment: Cast and retrieve jigs and plastics tipped with or without a half of nightcrawler. Crankbaits work well this time of year. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Walleye - Good
Comment: Cast and retrieve jigs and plastics tipped with or without a half of nightcrawler. Crankbaits work well this time of year. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Trout streams in Delaware County are in good to excellent condition. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Brown Trout - Good
Comment: Match the hatch with the upcoming warmer weather. Grasshoppers are abundant. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Rainbow Trout - Good
Comment: Cast and retrieve flashy spinner blades or smaller bead heads. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Trout streams in Dubuque County are in good to excellent condition. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Brown Trout - Fair
Comment: Match the hatch with the upcoming warmer weather. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Rainbow Trout - Good
Comment: Cast and retrieve flashy spinner blades or smaller bead heads. . Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Trout streams in Jackson County are in good to excellent condition. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Brown Trout - Good
Comment: Match the hatch with the upcoming warmer weather. Caddis are almost always a good choice; grasshoppers are abundant in stream corridors. . Last updated on 10/15/2026

Rainbow Trout - Good
Comment: Cast and retrieve flashy spinner blades or smaller bead heads. . Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Anglers are catching bass and some crappie. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Try fishing around shoreline structure near fallen trees in the 8-10 feet of water jigging colored tube jigs or hair jigs. A live minnow tipped under a slip bobber can be very effective. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Cast artificial lures or crankbaits along shoreline areas and around the docks. Last updated on 10/15/2026

White Crappie - Fair
Comment: Try fishing around shoreline structure near fallen trees in the 8-10 feet of water jigging colored tube jigs or hair jigs. A live minnow tipped under a slip bobber can be very effective. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Water levels on the Maquoketa River are falling with the recent dry weather. Recent fisheries surveys revealed good to excellent walleye and smallmouth bass populations within Delaware County. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Smallmouth Bass - Good
Comment: Cast and retrieve jigs and plastics tipped with or without a half of nightcrawler. Crankbaits work well this time of year. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Walleye - Good
Comment: Cast and retrieve jigs and plastics tipped with or without a half of nightcrawler. Crankbaits work well this time of year. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Trout streams in Delaware County are in good to excellent condition. . Last updated on 10/15/2026
Brown Trout - Good
Comment: Match the hatch with the upcoming warmer weather. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Rainbow Trout - Good
Comment: Cast and retrieve flashy spinner blades or smaller bead heads. . Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Anglers should have some success angling on the Shell Rock River; good to excellent reports on the Cedar River for both walleye and smallmouth bass. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Smallmouth Bass - Status Unsure
Comment: Cast and retrieve jigs and plastics tipped with or without a half of nightcrawler. Crankbaits work well this time of year. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Walleye - Status Unsure
Comment: Cast and retrieve jigs and plastics tipped with or without a half of nightcrawler. Crankbaits work well this time of year. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Water levels have risen to 5.79 feet on the Wapsipinicon River as of today. Walleye and smallmouth bass fishing should improve as water levels continue to drop. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Smallmouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Cast and retrieve jigs and plastics tipped with or without a half of nightcrawler. Crankbaits work well this time of year. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Walleye - Fair
Comment: Cast and retrieve jigs and plastics tipped with or without a half of nightcrawler. Crankbaits work well this time of year. Last updated on 10/15/2026


Black Hawk Management District (Northwest Region)

  • Contact Person: Ben Wallace - 712-657-2638
  • Comments: Water temperatures are around 60 degrees in many district water bodies. Last updated on 10/15/2026
  • Water Temperature (°F): 62.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Bluegill - Fair
Comment: Pick up bluegill from shore with a piece of crawler on a jig. Try along Ice House Point shoreline, the stone piers in Town Bay, and near the inlet bridge. Most fish are up to 7-inches. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Channel Catfish - Fair
Comment: There is a good population of 17- to 20-inch catfish. Use cut bait or crawlers fished on or near the bottom from shore and around the rock piles in deeper habitat. . Last updated on 10/15/2026

Walleye - Fair
Comment: Anglers have had luck from shore. Throw a twister or use live bait like a minnow or a leech under a bobber from shore. Anglers have had luck near the fish house in Town Bay and the inlet bridge. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Find crappie near submerged structure in 5-15 feet of water. . Last updated on 10/08/2026

Walleye - Fair
Comment: Pick up walleye in 5-15 feet of water using minnows or crawlers. Last updated on 10/08/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 62.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Walleye - Slow
Comment: Look for walleye near shore as water temperatures cool down. Try throwing twisters or using a minnow under a bobber. . Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 60.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Channel Catfish - Fair
Comment: Look for catfish around rocky shorelines and near the dredge cuts. Use cut bait, stink bait, or a crawler fished on the bottom. . Last updated on 10/08/2026

Walleye - Fair
Comment: Look for walleye action near shore. Try crankbaits, twisters, or a crawler or leach fished under a bobber. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 62.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Find black crappie near shore this time of year. Most fish are 9- to 10-inches. Use a small jig tipped with a piece of crawler or minnow fished under a bobber from shore and from the jetties. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Bluegill - Fair
Comment: Look for bluegill near shore. A recent survey showed good numbers of 7- to 8-inch fish. Use a piece of crawler under a bobber near shore and from the jetties. Last updated on 10/15/2026


Clear Lake Management District (Northwest Region)

  • Contact Person: Scott Grummer - 641-357-3517
  • Comments: Contact Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office for information on lakes and rivers in north central Iowa. Last updated on 10/01/2026
  • Water Temperature (°F): 60.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Lake level is 0.84 inches below crest. Navigation buoys have been removed for the season. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Black Crappie - Slow
Comment: Anglers are catching crappie off the docks with small jigs around the boat hoists. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Muskellunge - Good
Comment: Fall is an excellent time to target musky. Cast baits near docks and vegetation beds. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Walleye - Fair
Comment: N/A

Yellow Bass - Excellent
Comment: Use small jigs, crawlers , and cut bait on the outside edges of vegetation beds. Anglers are catching all sizes of fish. Last updated on 10/01/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Lake level is near crest. Navigation buoys have been removed for the season. Last updated on 10/01/2026
Black Crappie - Good
Comment: Drift fish or troll crappie jigs in 8-12 feet of water. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Bluegill - Good
Comment: Small jigs and nightcrawler pieces are working in a variety of depths. Last updated on 10/01/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Any water west of the north boat ramp is a waterfowl refuge and is closed to all activity from Sept. 1st through the final day of the duck season. Signs across the lake mark this area. Last updated on 10/01/2026
Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Use topwater and weedless baits. Target woody structure near shore. Last updated on 09/17/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: River level is 4.95 feet. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Smallmouth Bass - Fair
Comment: N/A


Spirit Lake Management District (Northwest Region)

  • Contact Person: Jed Siegwarth - 712-330-2542
  • Comments: Lake temperatures are in the mid-60s. The fishing bite is good for many species. Water levels are at crest. Most pleasure boaters are off the lakes for the year; many docks and hoists are out for the season. . Last updated on 10/15/2026
  • Water Temperature (°F): 60.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: The panfish bite is good. . Last updated on 10/15/2026
Black Crappie - Good
Comment: Anglers are targeting quality-sized fish. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 66.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
There are no active fish reports for this location


  • Water Temperature (°F): 65.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: The perch bite has been good as water temperatures continue to fall. Anglers are catching good sized fish. Last updated on 10/08/2026
Walleye - Good
Comment: Trolling and livescope has worked well to target fish. . Last updated on 09/24/2026

Yellow Perch - Good
Comment: Anglers are catching perch from the weedline out to 15 feet of water. Some chasing may be needed to stay on top of schools. Jigs with minnows or jigs paired with wigglers work well. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 65.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Anglers are catching walleye and smallmouth trolling with crank baits off points. Last updated on 10/01/2026
Bluegill - Good
Comment: The bite has been variable, but very good when it’s on. . Last updated on 10/08/2026


Lake Darling Management District (Southeast Region)

  • Contact Person: Vance Polton - 319-694-2430
  • Comments: For more information on these lakes and ponds, call the Lake Darling Fisheries at 319-694-2430. Last updated on 03/04/2026
  • Water Temperature (°F): 67.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: The crappie bite picked up a little at the end of last week, then slowed down over the weekend. It's starting to pick back up with the cooler weather. Try vertical jigging with a minnow trailer or slip bobber and minnow in about 7 - 8 feet of water along and in the trees along the south side of the lake. Also try around some of the brushpiles up the lake from the beach. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: The Cedar is dropping fairly quickly; down about 2 feet below bank full. Last updated on 10/15/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: River level continues to drop very slowly; currently about 1/2 feet below bank full level. Fairly fast current. Last updated on 10/15/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location


  • Water Temperature (°F): 65.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water temperature warmed up a couple of degrees over the weekend, but started cooling back down. Friday's lows of near freezing will take it down a few more degrees. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Bluegill - Fair
Comment: Their advance into shallower water was halted by the warm weather last weekend. A return to cooler weather has them moving back in shallow. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Bass were holding in 6-8 feet of water over the weekend. A forecast big drop in nighttime temperatures should get them back into the feeding mode to fatten up for the winter. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 66.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water temperature gained a couple of degrees over the weekend, and is cooling back down. The water still has a definite brown cast from the rain, as well as the fall turn over. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Anglers were picking up crappies at the end of last week around the jetties and the boat docks. Warm weather over the weekend slowed that bite down; it's starting to pick back up as the cooler weather returns. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Bluegill - Fair
Comment: Bluegill are spread out between the shallow 2 - 3 feet of water around the tree falls and the rock piles in about 6 feet of water. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 67.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: The water still has a green tint, but it's thinning. Cold temperatures forecast for the next couple of nights might finish off the phytoplankton. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Look for crappies along the rock shorelines adjacent to the fish habitat in 8 to 10 feet of water. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 62.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: The water continues to clear, but there's still a definite brown color. Water clarity is about 3 feet; less where the wind is blowing into the shoreline. Lost Grove Lake has Eurasian Watermilfoil; make sure you clean off your boat and trailer before you leave the ramp parking lot to prevent its spread. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Bluegill - Fair
Comment: Bluegills slowed down their move to shallower water with the warm/hot weather last weekend. They should come back in shallower with the cooler weather forecast. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Work the edges of the weedbeds near deeper water on the main body of the lake by flipping jigs with crawdad trailers back into them. Hopefully they can settle in when the weather quits changing every other day. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: River level is about 1 foot below bank full level; it's dropping very slowly. Last updated on 10/15/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location


Macbride Management District (Southeast Region)

  • Contact Person: D. J. Vogeler or Chris Mack - 319-624-3615
  • Comments: N/A
  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Black Crappie - Good
Comment: N/A

Redear Sunfish - Good
Comment: N/A


  • Water Temperature (°F): 68.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Black Crappie - Good
Comment: Use 3" twister tails or minnows around brush piles. Last updated on 10/14/2026

Bluegill - Good
Comment: Crappie anglers are catching bluegills with a downsized twister tail. Last updated on 10/08/2026

Channel Catfish - Good
Comment: Anglers are using creek chubs or dipbait on the north end of the lake. Last updated on 10/08/2026

Largemouth Bass - Good
Comment: Use jerk baits, chatter baits or square bill crankbaits in 8-10 feet of water in the mornings. Anglers are catching some on topwater in the mornings or evenings. Last updated on 10/08/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: No reports received this week. Last updated on 10/14/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location


  • Water Temperature (°F): 68.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: The fish cleaning station will close next week. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Bluegill - Fair
Comment: Anglers are catching fish up to 8-inches around docks or vegetation. Last updated on 09/30/2026

Muskellunge - Fair
Comment: Anglers are catching a few. Last updated on 10/07/2026

Walleye - Fair
Comment: Try fishing around the stump line edges or rock reefs. Last updated on 10/15/2026

White Crappie - Good
Comment: Some days are better than others; anglers report improvements in crappie fishing this week with a few limits caught. Use jigs tipped with plastics or minnows around brush piles or aquatic vegetation. Most fish are 9- to 12-inches with a few larger ones. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 68.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: The fishing cleaning station is closed for the season. Last updated on 10/15/2026
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Try minnows around brush piles. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Muskellunge - Fair
Comment: Anglers are catching a few. Last updated on 10/15/2026

Walleye - Fair
Comment: Some days are better than others; best bite is after sunset. Last updated on 10/07/2026

Yellow Perch - Fair
Comment: Try minnows or a piece of worm around the coontail beds. Last updated on 10/15/2026


Rathbun Management District (Southeast Region)

  • Contact Person: Rathbun Fish Hatchery personnel - 641-647-2406
  • Comments: N/A
  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Closed
  • Comments: Lake Keomah is refilling after a lake renovation last year. Some fish have been stocked for future angling. Last updated on 09/23/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Bluegill - Fair
Comment: Try small jigs along the fishing jetties and around the submerged cedar tree piles. Fish should move into shallow water as it cools. Last updated on 10/07/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Bluegill - Slow
Comment: Try small jigs around the cedar tree piles and along the vegetation near the shoreline. Last updated on 10/07/2026

Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Use crankbaits and plastics or spinnerbaits along brush piles and rocky shorelines. Last updated on 10/07/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Trout will be stocked on Monday, November 2. You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Last updated on 10/15/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location


  • Water Temperature (°F): 70.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Lake level is 907.62 msl; recreation pool is 904 msl. Lake Rathbun contains zebra mussels; clean, drain and dry your boat before you go to another water body. Last updated on 10/07/2026
Black Crappie - Slow
Comment: Target suspended crappie with small crankbaits. Look for crappies to gather around brush piles and be closer to shore as the water cools. Last updated on 10/07/2026

Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Slow
Comment: Try vertically jigging over rock piles or trolling crankbaits. Watch for schools of gizzard shad; hybrid striped bass are probably following them. Use baits that mimic shad, like silver crankbaits or blade baits. Last updated on 10/07/2026


Boone Management District (Southwest Region)

  • Contact Person: Andy Otting - 515-204-5885
  • Comments: Central Iowa Lakes have turned over for the fall. Look for fish in deeper habitat. Fall is good time to slowly troll small plastics or vertical jig plastics or minnows over habitat to catch crappies. Fall trout stockings in community ponds are nearing, with Ada Hayden Lake and Lake Petocka on Friday October 23, and Terra Lake and Triumph Park Pond on Monday October 26. You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Last updated on 10/15/2026
  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Try trolling or jigging panfish plastics over roadbeds and brush piles in water less than 15 feet deep. Shore anglers can try the rock fishing jetties in the early mornings and evenings. Last updated on 10/01/2026

Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair
Comment: Use jigs with shad imitating plastics. Look for surface feeding activity or use electronics to find concentrated schools of gizzard shad. If fishing from shore, concentrate on the shoreline the wind is blowing into. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Try vertical jigging or slowly trolling small plastics over habitat. Afternoons and early evening bite is best. Last updated on 10/08/2026

Bluegill - Good
Comment: Drift or troll 1/32 or 1/16 ounce jig heads tipped with a nightcrawler fished 5 to 15 feet deep near habitat locations and just over the tops of the small flooded trees that grew throughout the lake when it was drawn down. . Last updated on 10/15/2026


Cold Springs Management District (Southwest Region)

  • Contact Person: Mark Boucher or John Lorenzen - 712-769-2587
  • Comments: Fishing has improved with stable weather conditions. Last updated on 10/07/2026
  • Water Temperature (°F): 66.0
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: 1200 rainbow trout will be stocked on October 23rd in pond 1. You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. The bag limit is 5 trout with possession of 10. Last updated on 10/15/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location


  • Water Temperature (°F): 65.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Anglers are catching black crappie off the jetty on the west side of the lake. Last updated on 10/14/2026

Bluegill - Fair
Comment: Farm Creek bluegill will average 8-inches. Last updated on 10/14/2026

Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Farm Creek has a good largemouth bass population. Last updated on 10/14/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 65.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Slow troll open water areas to find schools of black crappie. Last updated on 10/14/2026

Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Greenfield has a high percentage of 12- to 14-inch largemouth bass. Last updated on 10/14/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 65.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Troll the roadbeds or fish along deep tree piles to find black crappies. Sorting is needed for larger fish. Last updated on 10/14/2026

Bluegill - Fair
Comment: Anglers are catching bluegill slow trolling close to underwater reefs and around the roadbed. Last updated on 10/14/2026

Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Bass anglers are finding fish in deep tree piles and along the roadbed. Last updated on 10/14/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 65.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Look for black crappies in the tree piles. Late afternoon bite is best. Last updated on 10/14/2026

Bluegill - Slow
Comment: Slow troll and fish along tree piles to find 8-inch fish. Last updated on 10/14/2026

Largemouth Bass - Status Unsure
Comment: N/A


  • Water Temperature (°F): 65.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Fish surveys this fall showed very good numbers of 10- to 11-inch black crappies and 8-inch bluegill. Last updated on 10/14/2026
Black Crappie - Status Unsure
Comment: N/A

Bluegill - Fair
Comment: Anglers are catching bluegill with worms under a bobber. Last updated on 10/15/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F): 65.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Find black crappies in the tree piles. Fish will average 9.5-inches. . Last updated on 10/14/2026

Bluegill - Fair
Comment: Use red worms or nightcrawlers around the tree piles. Last updated on 10/14/2026

Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: N/A


  • Water Temperature (°F): 65.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Black Crappie - Good
Comment: Look for 9-inch black crappies in the tree piles. Last updated on 10/14/2026

Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Boat anglers are finding largemouth bass in shallow tree piles. Last updated on 10/14/2026


Mt. Ayr Management District (Southwest Region)

  • Contact Person: Andy Jansen - 641-464-3108
  • Comments: Water temperature is in the upper 60s to low 70s in most Mount Ayr district lakes. Last updated on 10/08/2026
  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Docks are in at all boat ramps. Last updated on 09/17/2026
Bluegill - Fair
Comment: Catch Bluegill of all sizes with a piece of nightcrawler under a bobber in shallow coves. Last updated on 10/08/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Docks are in at the main and bait shop ramps. Last updated on 10/08/2026
Bluegill - Fair
Comment: Catch Bluegill of all sizes with a piece of nightcrawler under a bobber near shallow coves. Last updated on 09/30/2026

Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Catch Largemouth Bass of all sizes using crankbaits fished along rocky shoreline areas. Last updated on 10/08/2026


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Lake level is about 3.5 inches above normal pool as of October 5. Last updated on 10/08/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location


  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Docks are in at the main ramp. Last updated on 10/08/2026
Bluegill - Fair
Comment: Catch Bluegill of all sizes with a piece of nightcrawler under a bobber in shallow coves. Last updated on 10/08/2026