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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 - 563-872-5495
  • Comments: Mississippi River water levels are slowly rising with the recent rains. Water clarity is stained. The Mississippi River paddlefish snagging season is open until April 15. There is a 33-inch maximum length limit with a daily limit of two and a possession limit of four. Please consult the DNR website or the 2026 Iowa Fishing Regulations booklet (page 11) for more information on this unique angling opportunity. Call your locat bait shops or Iowa DNR Fisheries office for the latest information on river conditions. Last updated on 04/09/2026

Pool 12, Mississippi River (Dubuque)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 46.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water level is around 10.7 feet at the Dubuque tailwater and is rising slowly. Call your local bait shops for the latest information. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Black Crappie - Slow
Comment: N/A
Bluegill - Slow
Comment: N/A
Northern Pike - Fair
Comment: N/A
Sauger - Fair
Comment: Use jigs tipped with plastics or hair jigs tipped with minnows. Slow down your presentation and make multiple passes through small productive zones. Last updated on 04/02/2026
Walleye - Fair
Comment: The walleye bite has slowed over the past week. Try jigs tipped with plastics or hair jigs tipped with minnows if the bite is slow. Use slower presentations with enough weight to stay on the bottom and focus on current seams or areas with bottom transitions. Make multiple passes through small productive zones. Last updated on 04/02/2026

Pool 13, Mississippi River (Jackson)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 47.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water level is around 11.4 feet at the Bellevue tailwater and is rising slowly. Water clarity is stained. The pre-spawn walleye/sauger bite has slowed. The paddlefish snagging season is open until April 15. There is a 33-inch maximum length limit with a daily limit of two and a possession limit of four. Please consult the DNR website or the 2026 Iowa Fishing Regulations booklet (page 11) for more information on this unique angling opportunity. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Black Crappie - Slow
Comment: N/A
Bluegill - Slow
Comment: N/A
Channel Catfish - Slow
Comment: Anglers that target channel cats this time of year are reporting moderate success. Move often to find feeding fish. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Northern Pike - Slow
Comment: N/A
Sauger - Slow
Comment: Use jigs tipped with plastics or hair jigs tipped with minnows. Slow down your presentation and make multiple passes through small productive zones. Focus on current breaks. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Walleye - Slow
Comment: The walleye bite has slowed over the past week with the reduced water clarity. Use jigs tipped with plastics or hair jigs tipped with minnows. Use slower presentations with enough weight to stay on the bottom; focus on current seams or areas with bottom transitions. Make multiple passes through small productive zones. Last updated on 04/09/2026

Pool 14, Mississippi River (Clinton)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 49.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water level is around 10.7 feet at Lock and Dam 13 and is rising slowly. The paddlefish snagging season is open until April 15. There is a 33-inch maximum length limit with a daily limit of two and a possession limit of four. Please consult the DNR website or the 2026 Iowa Fishing Regulations booklet (page 11) for more information on this unique angling opportunity. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Black Crappie - Status Unsure
Comment: N/A
Bluegill - Slow
Comment: N/A
Channel Catfish - Slow
Comment: Anglers that target channel cats this time of year are reporting moderate success. Move often to find feeding fish. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Sauger - Slow
Comment: Use jigs tipped with plastics or hair jigs tipped with minnows. Slow down your presentation and make multiple passes through small productive zones. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Walleye - Slow
Comment: The walleye bite has slowed over the past week with the reduced water clarity. Use jigs tipped with plastics or hair jigs tipped with minnows if the bite is slow. Use slower presentations with enough weight to stay on the bottom; focus on current seams or areas with bottom transitions. Make multiple passes through small productive zones. . Last updated on 04/09/2026
White Crappie - Slow
Comment: N/A

Pool 15, Mississippi River (Scott)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 49.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water level is around 7.9 feet at Lock and Dam 14 and is slowly rising. Call your local bait shops for the most current information. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Channel Catfish - Slow
Comment: N/A
Sauger - Fair
Comment: The bite has slowed over the past week. Use jigs tipped with plastics or hair jigs tipped with minnows. Last updated on 04/02/2026
Walleye - Fair
Comment: The bite has slowed over the past week. Use jigs tipped with plastics or hair jigs tipped with minnows. Last updated on 04/02/2026

Fairport Management District (Mississippi River Region)

  • Contact Person: Andy Fowler - 563-263-5062
  • Comments: Mississippi River Pools 16-19: River stages have risen with recent rains. Main channel water temperature is 48-51 degrees. Water clarity is poor. Last updated on 04/08/2026

Pool 16, Mississippi River (Scott)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 48.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Tailwater stage is 11.9 feet at Lock and Dam 15 in Davenport. Tailwater stage is forecast to stay fairly steady over the weekend. Flood Stage is 15 feet. The Marquette St. boat ramp is open. Fishing has been difficult with the muddy water conditions. . Last updated on 04/09/2026
Sauger - Slow
Comment: Sauger fishing below Lock and Dam 15 in the Quad Cities has been slow with the muddy water conditions. Try vertical jigging with minnows or nightcrawlers or trolling three-way rigs with minnows or stickbaits. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Walleye - Slow
Comment: Walleye fishing below Lock and Dam 15 in the Quad Cities has been slow with the muddy water conditions. Try vertical jigging with minnows or nightcrawlers or trolling three-way rigs with minnows or stickbaits. Last updated on 04/08/2026

Pool 17, Mississippi River (Muscatine)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 51.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Tailwater stage is 11.54 feet at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine. Tailwater stage is forecast to stay fairly steady over the weekend. Flood stage is 15 feet. The boat ramps in Muscatine are open. We have not received any walleye and sauger fishing reports for this Pool this week. Fishing will most likely be difficult with the muddy water conditions. . Last updated on 04/09/2026
Sauger - Slow
Comment: Try vertical jigging with minnows or nightcrawlers or trolling three-way rigs with minnows or stickbaits. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Walleye - Slow
Comment: Try vertical jigging with minnows or nightcrawlers or trolling three-way rigs with minnows or stickbaits. Last updated on 04/08/2026

Pool 18, Mississippi River (Louisa)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 49.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Tailwater stage has risen to 13.28 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston and is rising. Tailwater stage is forecast to stay fairly steady over the weekend. Flood stage is 15 feet. We have not received any tailwater fishing reports for walleye and sauger this week. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Sauger - Status Unsure
Comment: Try vertical jigging below the dam with minnows or nightcrawlers or trolling three-way rigs with minnows or stickbaits. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Walleye - Status Unsure
Comment: Try vertical jigging below the dam with minnows or nightcrawlers or trolling three-way rigs with minnows or stickbaits. Last updated on 04/08/2026
White Bass - Status Unsure
Comment: Look for White Bass in Belle Pocket in Boston Bay. Cast jigs and twister tails or inline spinners. Last updated on 04/08/2026

Pool 19, Mississippi River (Lee)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 50.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Tailwater stage has risen to 9.44 feet at Lock and Dam 18 above Burlington. Tailwater stage is forecast to stay fairly steady over the weekend. Flood stage is 10 feet. We have not received any walleye and sauger fishing reports for this pool. . Last updated on 04/08/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location

Guttenberg Management District (Mississippi River Region)

  • Contact Person: Karen Osterkamp - 563-252-1156
  • Comments: Water temperature is fluctuating in the mid to upper 40s this week. Water is stained after recent rainfall. Water levels are expected to crest followed by a gradual fall. Anglers are having to search for fish with the higher water levels. Walleye bite has slowed as they have started to spawn. . Last updated on 04/09/2026

Pool 09, Mississippi River (Allamakee)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 48.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: River level is cresting near 9.3 feet at Lansing and is predicted to remain high next week then gradually recede. Look for fish to seek out backwater habitat or slack water as they move out of the strong current in the main channel. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Northern Pike - Fair
Comment: Comment: Cast chartreuse colored baits along shorelines and weed edges to hook a post-spawn northern pike. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Sauger - Slow
Comment: Try live minnows to entice the bite. With higher water coming down, look for fish to move off to slack current downstream. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Walleye - Slow
Comment: Try live minnows to entice the bite. With higher water coming down, look for fish to move off to slack current downstream. Last updated on 04/09/2026
White Bass - Status Unsure
Comment: N/A
Yellow Perch - Slow
Comment: Reports of a few perch biting before the rain and rise in water levels. Use jigs tipped with live minnows in off-current areas. Last updated on 04/09/2026

Pool 10, Mississippi River (Clayton)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 49.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: River level is expected to crest near 619.1 feet at Lynxville and remain high then level off. Rising water may affect fish patterns. Look for fish to move away from stronger current. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Northern Pike - Fair
Comment: Comment: Cast chartreuse colored baits along shorelines and weed edges to hook a post-spawn northern pike. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Sauger - Slow
Comment: Try live minnows to entice the bite. With higher water coming down, look for fish to move off to slack current downstream. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Walleye - Slow
Comment: Try live minnows to entice the bite. With higher water coming down, look for fish to move off to slack current downstream. Last updated on 04/09/2026
White Bass - Status Unsure
Comment: N/A

Pool 11, Mississippi River (Clayton)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 47.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water level is 10.9 feet at the Lock and Dam below Guttenberg and is expected to rise to 12.1 feet before gradually receding. When the lock gates are pulled out, look for fish to move to slacker water downstream and along current seams off main channel. Water clarity has diminished after recent rains. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Northern Pike - Fair
Comment: Cast chartreuse colored baits along shorelines and weed edges to hook a post-spawn northern pike. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Sauger - Slow
Comment: Try live minnows to entice the bite. With higher water coming down, look for fish to move off to slack current downstream. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Walleye - Slow
Comment: Try live minnows to entice the bite. With higher water coming down, look for fish to move off to slack current downstream. Last updated on 04/09/2026
White Bass - Status Unsure
Comment: N/A

Decorah Management District (Northeast Region)

  • Contact Person: Caleb Schnitzler - 563-382-8324
  • Comments: Rain and windy conditions likely through much of the weekend. Area river levels are falling with improved clarity. Weekend temperatures will reach the low 70s by Sunday. Stocking calendars for the 2026 season are available on the DNR Trout Fishing website. Last updated on 04/08/2026

Allamakee County Trout Streams (Allamakee)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Catchable trout stocking season started. Stocking calendars for the 2026 season are available on the DNR Trout Fishing website. Water levels are elevated, but still fishable. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Brown Trout - Good
Comment: Fresh inputs from recent high water may improve the bite. Early spring hatches often feature smaller insects. Drop one hook size or use a smaller fly if you are getting rises but no hookups. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Rainbow Trout - Excellent
Comment: Try white, black, or olive hair jigs with a "lift-and-drop" motion. Carryovers often strike on the sink; watch your line for that telltale "tick. Last updated on 04/08/2026

Cedar River (above Nashua) (Floyd)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 48.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water levels are elevated about 2 feet with limited clarity. Use caution boating; submersed hazards may have moved with recent rain. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Channel Catfish - Good
Comment: Use a hook with a dead chub, fresh dead minnow, or stink bait fished on the bottom. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Smallmouth Bass - Slow
Comment: Find smallies in off-channel areas. Use a small jig or crankbait fished near the bottom. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Walleye - Slow
Comment: Use a jig with plastic tail and a live minnow about a foot off the bottom in an off channel area. Last updated on 04/08/2026

Clayton County Trout Streams (Clayton)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Catchable trout stocking season has started. Stocking calendars for the 2026 season are available on the DNR Trout Fishing website. Water levels arebelevated, but still fishable. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Brown Trout - Good
Comment: Fresh inputs from recent high water may improve the bite. Early spring hatches often feature smaller insects. Drop one hook size or use a smaller fly if you are getting rises but no hookups. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Rainbow Trout - Excellent
Comment: Try white, black, or olive hair jigs with a "lift-and-drop" motion. Carryovers often strike on the sink; watch your line for that telltale "tick.". Last updated on 04/08/2026

Fayette County Trout Streams (Fayette)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Catchable trout stocking season has started. Stocking calendars for the 2026 season are available on the DNR Trout Fishing website. Water levels are elevated, but still fishable. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Brown Trout - Good
Comment: Fresh inputs from recent high water may improve the bite. Early spring hatches often feature smaller insects. Drop one hook size or use a smaller fly if you are getting rises but no hookups. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Rainbow Trout - Excellent
Comment: Try white, black, or olive hair jigs with a "lift-and-drop" motion. Carryovers often strike on the sink; watch your line for that telltale "tick.". Last updated on 04/08/2026

Lake Hendricks (Howard)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 48.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: The lake is slightly off color. The water is slow to warm with clouds and rain. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Black Crappie - Slow
Comment: Try a jig head tipped with a minnow or plastic jig fished in deeper water. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Bluegill - Slow
Comment: Gills come in shore on sunny evenings to find food near downed logs or trees. Downed logs provide food for aquatic insects and small crustaceans, favorite treats for bluegills and a safe place to escape predators. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Largemouth Bass - Slow
Comment: Find bass suspended in the evening. Use a spinner or crankbait from shore with a slow retrieve. Last updated on 04/08/2026

Lake Meyer (Winneshiek)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 48.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: The lake is slightly off color. The water is slow to warm with clouds and rain. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Black Crappie - Slow
Comment: Find crappie in deep water. Try a small spinner or crankbait with a slow or varied retrieval. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Bluegill - Slow
Comment: Gills come in shore on sunny evenings to find food near downed logs or trees. Downed logs provide food for aquatic insects and small crustaceans, favorite treats for bluegills and a safe place to escape predators. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Largemouth Bass - Slow
Comment: As water warms, bass will actively be looking for prey fish. Use a crankbait or a spinner retrieved slowly. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Northern Pike - Fair
Comment: Pike are actively looking for spawning areas in shallow, vegetated water. Use a spoon or hair jig to tease this feisty fish. Last updated on 04/02/2026

Mitchell County Trout Streams (Mitchell)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Catchable trout stocking season has started. Stocking calendars for the 2026 season are available on the DNR Trout Fishing website. Water levels are elevated, but still fishable. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Brown Trout - Good
Comment: Fresh inputs from recent high water may improve the bite. Early spring hatches often feature smaller insects. Drop one hook size or use a smaller fly if you are getting rises but no hookups. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Rainbow Trout - Excellent
Comment: Try white, black, or olive hair jigs with a "lift-and-drop" motion. Carryovers often strike on the sink; watch your line for that telltale "tick.". Last updated on 04/08/2026

Turkey River (above Clermont) (Fayette)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 48.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water levels are elevated about 2 feet with limited clarity. Use caution boating; submersed hazards may have moved with recent rain event. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Smallmouth Bass - Slow
Comment: Find smallies in deeper holes near the stream bottom; try to entice them with smaller presentations and a slow retrieve. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Walleye - Slow
Comment: Use a jig with plastic tail and a live minnow about a foot off the bottom in an off channel area. Last updated on 04/08/2026

Upper Iowa River (above Decorah) (Winneshiek)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water levels are up about 2 feet with about 6 inch clarity. Use caution boating; submersed hazards may have moved with recent high water. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Smallmouth Bass - Slow
Comment: Find smallies in deeper holes near the stream bottom; try to entice them with smaller presentations and a slow retrieve. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Walleye - Fair
Comment: Use a jig with plastic tail or a live minnow about a foot off the bottom in an off channel area or a clear water seam. Last updated on 04/08/2026

Volga Lake (Fayette)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 48.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Weekend rain and clouds will slow lake warming and fish activity. Water temperatures fluctuating between the upper 40s to low 50s. Target shallower areas toward evening hours. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Black Crappie - Slow
Comment: Try a jig head tipped with a minnow or plastic jig from shoreline. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Bluegill - Slow
Comment: Bluegill bite should improve as water temperature warms. Continue to use small jigs tipped with a waxworm or spike. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Channel Catfish - Good
Comment: Channel catfish are hitting worms or dead chubs fished off bottom. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Bass are hitting spinner baits near structure about 2 to 3 feet below surface. Last updated on 04/08/2026

Winneshiek County Trout Streams (Winneshiek)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Catchable trout stocking season has started. Stocking calendars for the 2026 season are available on the DNR Trout Fishing website. Water levels are elevated, but still fishable. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Brook Trout - Slow
Comment: Skinny water with dense beds of aquatic vegetation to hide in is a brook trout's favorite hangout. In tight runs around rocks, currents can pull your line and make your fly look unnatural. Use a reach cast to lay the line across the current to get a few extra seconds of drift. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Brown Trout - Good
Comment: Fresh inputs from recent high water may improve the bite. Early spring hatches often feature smaller insects. Drop one hook size or use a smaller fly if you are getting rises but no hookups . Last updated on 04/08/2026
Rainbow Trout - Excellent
Comment: Try white, black, or olive hair jigs with a "lift-and-drop" motion. Carryovers often strike on the sink; watch your line for that telltale "tick.". Last updated on 04/08/2026

Manchester Management District (Northeast Region)

  • Contact Person: Dan Kirby - 563-927-3276
  • Comments: No reports this past week on the interior rivers as they begin to recede after the recent rainfall events. More rain is expected for the upcoming weekend. Trout streams in Clayton, Delaware and Dubuque counties are mostly in excellent condition. Contact your local area bait and tackle shops for the most up-to-date reports. Last updated on 04/09/2026

Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City) (Black Hawk)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 32.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: The Cedar River is receding, but there is more rain in the extended forecast. Last updated on 04/09/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location

Dalton Pond (Jackson)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Trout stocking scheduled for April 2026 at Dalton Pond will be canceled. A bridge used to access the trout fishing destination is closed due to structural deterioration. The Iowa DNR is currently gathering cost estimates and preliminary plans to determine next steps at Dalton Pond. Local media outlets and this weekly report will be updated with developments. Dalton Pond is currently accessible only as a walk-in fishery. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Rainbow Trout - Fair
Comment: N/A

Delaware County Trout Streams (Delaware)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 55.0
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: There should be good hatches to match for the avid flyfishing anglers. Most trout streams remain in excellent condition in Delaware County. There has been some fishing activity on Spring Branch Creek above and below the Manchester Fish Hatchery. Anglers are doing well on Elk Creek at Twin Bridges County Park and Richmond Springs within Backbone State Park. . Last updated on 04/09/2026
Brown Trout - Good
Comment: Flyfishing and spin fishing are both effective. Use dry flies, nymphs, jigs or flashy lures. Try matching the insect hatch with dry flies on warmer days. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Rainbow Trout - Good
Comment: Flyfishing and spin fishing are both effective. Use dry flies, nymphs, jigs or flashy lures. Try matching the insect hatch with dry flies on warmer days. Last updated on 04/09/2026

Dubuque County Trout Streams (Dubuque)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Trout streams remain in excellent condition in Dubuque County. Swiss Valley Park is a favorite trout stream for many anglers; it offers both rainbow trout and brown trout opportunities. There have been good reports of anglers catching rainbow trout at Bankston County Park. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Brown Trout - Fair
Comment: Flyfishing and spin fishing are both effective. Use dry flies, nymphs, jigs or flashy lures. Try matching the insect hatch with dry flies on warmer days. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Rainbow Trout - Good
Comment: Flyfishing and spin fishing are both effective. Use dry flies, nymphs, jigs or flashy lures. Try matching the insect hatch with dry flies on warmer days. Last updated on 04/09/2026

Jackson County Trout Streams (Jackson)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Trout streams remain in excellent condition in Jackson County. Big Mill Wildlife Management area is a favorite trout stream for many anglers; it offers both rainbow trout and brown trout opportunities. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Brown Trout - Fair
Comment: Flyfishing and spin fishing are both effective. Use dry flies, nymphs, jigs or flashy lures. Try matching the insect hatch with dry flies on warmer days. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Rainbow Trout - Good
Comment: Flyfishing and spin fishing are both effective. Use dry flies, nymphs, jigs or flashy lures. Try matching the insect hatch with dry flies on warmer days. Last updated on 04/09/2026

Maquoketa River (above Monticello) (Delaware)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 55.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: The Maquoketa River is receding, but there is more rain in the extended forecast. Last updated on 04/09/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location

Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock) (Butler)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 30.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: The Shell Rock River is receding, but there is more rain in the extended forecast. Last updated on 04/09/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location

Wapsipinicon River (Tripoli to Troy Mills) (Buchanan)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 32.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: The Wapsipinicon River is receding, but there is more rain in the extended forecast. Last updated on 04/09/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location

Black Hawk Management District (Northwest Region)

  • Contact Person: Ben Wallace - 712-657-2638
  • Comments: Shore fishing action has been moderate with last week's cool down. Expect the bite to pick up as water temperatures climb. . Last updated on 04/08/2026

Arrowhead Lake (Sac)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: The boat ramp dock is in. Last updated on 04/08/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location

Black Hawk Lake (Sac)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Boat ramp docks are in. The walleye bite has slowed with the recent colder weather; expect the bite to pick back up as water temperatures climb again. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Walleye - Fair
Comment: Anglers are picking up fish along Ice House Point, in Town Bay, along North shore area, and along the east shore near the outlet. They are having luck using twisters and minnows under a bobber. Most fish are 14- to 16-inches long; a few anglers have picked up fish over 20-inches. The bite has slowed with recent colder temperatures; expect walleye action to pick back up over the next few days with warming temperatures. Last updated on 04/08/2026

Brushy Creek Lake (Webster)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: The courtesy docks are in at the west and south boat ramps. . Last updated on 04/08/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location

Storm Lake (incl Little Storm Lake) (Buena Vista)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 46.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water temperatures are in the mid-40s. Anglers have had luck with panfish and walleye from the east shore and in the marina. Expect action to pick up this week as water temperatures increase. Last updated on 04/08/2026
Walleye - Fair
Comment: Pick up walleye along the east shore, north shore, near the inlet, and in the marina as the water temperatures warm back up. Use a twister or try a minnow or leach under a bobber from shore. Fishing from shore during low light conditions can be productive this time of year. Last updated on 04/08/2026

Clear Lake Management District (Northwest Region)

  • Contact Person: Scott Grummer - 641-357-3517
  • Comments: For information on lakes and rivers in north central Iowa, contact Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office. Last updated on 04/09/2026

Clear Lake (Cerro Gordo)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 43.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Lake level is 2.88 inches above crest. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Walleye - Fair
Comment: Anglers are catching a few walleyes along the east shore and around the island. Best bite is after sunset. Last updated on 04/02/2026
White Bass - Slow
Comment: N/A
Yellow Bass - Slow
Comment: N/A

Crystal Lake (Hancock)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: The courtesy dock is in for the season. . Last updated on 04/09/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location

Lake Cornelia (Wright)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: The courtesy dock is in for the season. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Daily bag limit is 25 crappies. Last updated on 04/07/2026

Rice Lake (Winnebago)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Yellow Perch - Status Unsure
Comment: N/A

Silver Lake (Worth) (Worth)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Yellow Perch - Status Unsure
Comment: N/A

Winnebago River (Cerro Gordo)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: River level is 6.7 feet. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Northern Pike - Fair
Comment: Northern Pike are hitting live bait, jigs and crankbaits. Last updated on 04/09/2026

Spirit Lake Management District (Northwest Region)

  • Contact Person: Jed Siegwarth - 712-330-2542
  • Comments: Boat ramp courtesy docks are in place. Water levels are at crest. Water temperatures have remained low with the current cold nights. Most fish are still out in deeper water while water temperatures are low. The walleye season is closed on the Iowa Great Lakes until May 2nd. Last updated on 04/09/2026

East Okoboji Lake (Dickinson)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 45.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: All ramps are open. The walleye season is closed until May 2nd. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: N/A
Bluegill - Slow
Comment: N/A
Pumpkinseed - Slow
Comment: N/A

Ingham Lake (Emmet)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 45.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
There are no active fish reports for this location

Lost Island Lake (Palo Alto)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 45.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Some anglers have been catching fish from shore. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Yellow Bass - Fair
Comment: Anglers had been reporting lots of smaller yellow bass during the ice season. Last updated on 04/09/2026

Silver Lake (Dickinson) (Dickinson)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 45.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
There are no active fish reports for this location

Spirit Lake (Dickinson)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 43.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Boat ramp docks are in. The channel at Templar Park boat ramp is open, allowing easier travel to and from the lake. The walleye season is closed until May 2nd. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Black Crappie - Good
Comment: Anglers are catching fish in 16 feet of water. Using electronics makes it easy to get on top of fish. Try 1/16th and 1/32nd ounce jigs with a minnow or plastic. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Yellow Perch - Fair
Comment: Anglers were catching good amounts of quality-size, 9- to 13-inch fish during the ice season. Last updated on 04/09/2026

West Okoboji Lake (Dickinson)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 41.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: All ramps should be available for use. The walleye season is closed until May 2nd. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Bluegill - Slow
Comment: Anglers had been successful on the major bays during the ice season. Last updated on 04/09/2026

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

Big Hollow Lake (Des Moines)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 50.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water temperature is about 50 degree, is starting to fall with the cold rain (April 1-2). . Last updated on 04/02/2026
Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: On sunny warm (70+) days, anglers were picking up bass along the north side along the more open shoreline where the sun could get in to warm the water. Last updated on 04/02/2026

Jefferson Co. Park New Pond (Jefferson)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: There are still plenty of trout left in the lake to catch. You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Last updated on 04/02/2026
Rainbow Trout - Good
Comment: They have had time to settle down. Using bobber and bait is working better; try corn, powerbait, or worms. You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Last updated on 04/02/2026

Lake Belva Deer (Keokuk)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 50.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water temperature is around 50 degrees. Last updated on 04/02/2026
Black Crappie - Good
Comment: Anglers were catching 10-inch crappies in 10 to 12 feet of water earlier this week. They are using sonar to find scattered schools of fish and then jigging just over the top of them to catch them before moving on to the next school. Last updated on 04/02/2026
Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: A few more boats are chasing bass on sunny warm days. Anglers are catching some decent bass up to the 4 pounds. Try working the lures slow and shallow along sun heated rocks. Last updated on 04/02/2026

Lake Darling (Washington)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 51.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Water temperature is 51 degrees. The lake is coming up and is a little more turbid with the heavy rain (April1-2). Water clarity is 2-3 feet. Last updated on 04/02/2026
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: Anglers are picking up crappies in the shallow water around the brush piles and the steeper rock shorelines. Concentrate your efforts on where the sun hits the structure to warm the water. Last updated on 04/02/2026
Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Bass continue to come into the shallows on the few sunnier days, but quickly return to deeper water on cooler days. Soft plastics and jigs worked slowly work best this time of year. Target the areas of the lake where the sun and wind hit the same stretches of shoreline. Last updated on 04/02/2026

Lake of the Hills (Scott)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 45.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: There are still plenty of trout left in the lake to catch. You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Minnows are not allowed as bait in this lake. Last updated on 04/02/2026
Rainbow Trout - Good
Comment: Even though good numbers of trout were caught the first day, there are many more still waiting to be caught. Work the fish habitat not to far off shore with a worm and bobber or small jigs tipped with red worms. You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Last updated on 03/26/2026

Lost Grove Lake (Scott)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 45.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: The middle (Red Barn) boat dock is in. The other docks are getting repaired and should be in the water shortly. Last updated on 04/02/2026
Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: 10- to 12-inch bass are moving into shallower water and feeding. Target the shorelines where the wind is blowing in. Larger bass are hanging out around the habitat in a little deeper water yet. Last updated on 04/02/2026
Walleye - Slow
Comment: Walleyes are cruising along the rock shorelines down along the lower end of the lake in the evening. Troll a live bait rig about 15 to 20 feet from shore at a fairly slow speed along the rocks where the wind blows into shore. Last updated on 04/02/2026

Wilson Lake (Lee)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: There are still plenty of trout left in the lake to catch. You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Last updated on 04/02/2026
Rainbow Trout - Excellent
Comment: Now that the trout have found homes in the lake, look for them around the cedar trees not too far out from shore or in the "corners" of the lake. You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Last updated on 03/26/2026

Macbride Management District (Southeast Region)

  • Contact Person: D. J. Vogeler or Chris Mack - 319-624-3615
  • Comments: N/A

Coralville Reservoir (Johnson)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Black Crappie - Slow
Comment: N/A
Bluegill - Fair
Comment: N/A
Channel Catfish - Slow
Comment: N/A
Green Sunfish - Fair
Comment: N/A
Largemouth Bass - Slow
Comment: Try fishing along rock shorelines or brush piles in coves. Last updated on 03/26/2026
White Crappie - Slow
Comment: N/A

Ely Pond (Linn)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: N/A
Rainbow Trout - Slow
Comment: N/A

Iowa Lake (Iowa Co.) (Iowa)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Black Crappie - Fair
Comment: N/A
Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: N/A

Iowa River (Coralville Lake to River Junction) (Johnson)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 52.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Sauger - Slow
Comment: N/A
Walleye - Fair
Comment: N/A
Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Fair
Comment: N/A

Iowa River (Marshalltown to Coralville Lake) (Iowa)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Channel Catfish - Slow
Comment: N/A
Walleye - Fair
Comment: Try fishing in creek mouths. Last updated on 04/02/2026
White Bass - Slow
Comment: N/A
Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass) - Slow
Comment: N/A

Lake Macbride (Johnson)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 50.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Largemouth Bass - Slow
Comment: N/A
Spotted bass - Slow
Comment: N/A
White Crappie - Fair
Comment: Look for suspended fish around brush piles in 10-18 feet of water. Last updated on 04/02/2026

Liberty Centre Pond (Johnson)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: N/A
Rainbow Trout - Slow
Comment: N/A

Noelridge Park Pond (Linn)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: N/A
Rainbow Trout - Slow
Comment: N/A

North Ridge Park Pond (Johnson)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: N/A
Rainbow Trout - Slow
Comment: N/A

Union Grove Lake (Tama)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Beach, shelter and cabin docks are reported in. Last updated on 04/06/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location

Rathbun Management District (Southeast Region)

  • Contact Person: Rathbun Fish Hatchery personnel - 641-647-2406
  • Comments: Water temperature is in the upper 40s to low 50s. Last updated on 04/09/2026

Hawthorn Lake (Mahaska)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Target channel catfish early spring. Last updated on 04/02/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location

Lake Miami (Monroe)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Target channel catfish along wind-blown shorelines. Last updated on 03/26/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location

Lake Sugema (Van Buren)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Channel Catfish - Slow
Comment: Try cut bait or dead minnows. Last updated on 03/26/2026
Largemouth Bass - Good
Comment: Anglers report catching largemouth bass. Target the rip-rapped shorelines using plastics or spinnerbaits. Last updated on 03/26/2026

Lake Wapello (Davis)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Channel catfish are usually the first fish to catch in the spring. Last updated on 04/09/2026
Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Target the brush piles with plastics or along the shoreline with spinnerbaits. Last updated on 04/09/2026

Ottumwa Park Pond South (Trout Pond) (Wapello)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: Anglers report that mornings and evenings are the best bite. Use gold rooster tails or other in-line spinners. You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Last updated on 04/02/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location

Rathbun Reservoir (Appanoose)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 46.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Lake level is 905.71 msl; recreation pool is 904 msl. Boat ramps are open and docks are installed; campgrounds are still closed. Lake Rathbun contains zebra mussels; clean, drain and dry your boat before going to another water body. Last updated on 04/09/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location

Boone Management District (Southwest Region)

  • Contact Person: Andy Otting - 515-204-5885
  • Comments: City ponds will warm up fast. This will create good Crappie and Largemouth Bass fishing ahead of the larger lakes. Check the Iowa DNR Fishing Atlas to see where public fishing ponds are located. Last updated on 04/09/2026

Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake (Story)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: N/A
Rainbow Trout - Fair
Comment: Trout remain from the winter stocking for open water anglers. Cast small jigs with plastics, in-line spinners, spoons, blade baits or live baits, such as waxworms, under floats. You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Last updated on 03/19/2026

Big Creek Lake (Polk)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Walleye - Fair
Comment: Walleye are moving shallow on rocky and sandy shorelines in the evenings near and after sunset. Cast 1/8oz to 1/4oz jigs tipped with twister tail, straight tail or paddletail swimbaits. Last updated on 04/09/2026

Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock) (Marion)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: River levels are high, making fishing conditions difficult. Last updated on 04/09/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location

Des Moines River (Stratford to Saylorville Lake) (Polk)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: River levels are currently high, making fishing conditions difficult. Last updated on 04/09/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location

Terra Lake (Polk)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: N/A
Rainbow Trout - Good
Comment: Trout were stocked on March 23. Cast small jigs with plastics, in-line spinners, spoons, blade baits or live bait under floats. You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Last updated on 03/26/2026

Triumph Park East (Dallas)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not applicable
  • Comments: N/A
Rainbow Trout - Fair
Comment: Trout remain from the winter stocking for open water anglers. Cast small jigs with plastics, in-line spinners, spoons, blade baits or live baits, such as waxworms, under floats. You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Last updated on 03/19/2026

Cold Springs Management District (Southwest Region)

  • Contact Person: Mark Boucher or John Lorenzen - 712-769-2587
  • Comments: Contact the Cold Springs office with any questions about fishing in the southwest district. Last updated on 04/07/2026

Big Lake (Including Gilbert's Pond) (Pottawattamie)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: There are plenty of trout left to catch at Big Lake. You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Last updated on 03/26/2026
Rainbow Trout - Fair
Comment: Cast small jigs with plastics, in-line spinners, spoons, or live bait, such as waxworms, under a bobber. You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. Last updated on 04/02/2026

Cold Springs Lake (Cass)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not recommended
  • Comments: Cold Springs Lake was drawn-down and renovated in August 2025. The lake is filling and fish have been restocked. Anglers can expect good fishing again by 2028. Last updated on 04/07/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location

Greenfield Lake (Adair)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Greenfield is a good destination for ice-out channel catfish. Last updated on 04/07/2026
Black Crappie - Slow
Comment: Cast small jigs around the jetties to catch 10-inch black crappie. The bite will get better as water temperatures warm. Last updated on 04/07/2026
Channel Catfish - Slow
Comment: Use shad sides on the windy shoreline to catch channel catfish of all sizes. Last updated on 04/07/2026

Lake Anita (Cass)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 45.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Bluegills and crappies will move into the pontoon arm of the lake when water temperatures warm. Try floating small jigs 2 feet under a bobber. Last updated on 03/26/2026
Black Crappie - Slow
Comment: N/A
Bluegill - Status Unsure
Comment: N/A
Channel Catfish - Status Unsure
Comment: N/A

Orient Lake (Adair)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Black Crappie - Status Unsure
Comment: N/A
Bluegill - Slow
Comment: Catch 8-inch bluegill with waxworms under a bobber around the underwater trees. Last updated on 03/26/2026

Prairie Rose Lake (Shelby)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 44.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Look for fish in the brush piles. Last updated on 04/07/2026
Largemouth Bass - Slow
Comment: Shore anglers report catching a few largemouth bass around the jetties. Last updated on 04/07/2026

Mt. Ayr Management District (Southwest Region)

  • Contact Person: Andy Jansen - 641-464-3108
  • Comments: Water temperature is in the upper 40s to low 50s in most Mount Ayr district lakes. Last updated on 04/07/2026

Green Valley Lake (Union)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: N/A
Largemouth Bass - Fair
Comment: Catch Largemouth Bass up to 18-inches with jigs fished along rocky shoreline areas. Last updated on 04/07/2026

Little River Watershed Lake (Decatur)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Docks are in at the main and bait shop ramps. Last updated on 04/01/2026
Walleye - Fair
Comment: Catch Walleye of all sizes with crankbaits or jigs along the dam. Last updated on 04/07/2026

Three Mile Lake (Union)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Not recommended
  • Comments: Lake level is about 10 feet below normal pool as of March 25. Water level is at the end of all boat ramp lanes at the main ramp. Last updated on 03/26/2026
There are no active fish reports for this location

Twelve Mile Creek Lake (Union)

  • Water Temperature (°F):
  • Ramp Condition: Useable
  • Comments: Docks are in at the main ramp. Last updated on 04/01/2026
Yellow Perch - Fair
Comment: Catch Yellow Perch of all sizes with nightcrawlers along the mudflats. Last updated on 03/26/2026
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