Iowa Fishing Report
www.iowadnr.gov
SOUTHWEST
Little River Watershed Lake - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Dock is in at the main boat ramp.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Slow
Try using jigs fished along the flooded timber for Crappies of all sizes.
Bluegill
Fair
Try using jigs or small worms under a bobber fished along rocky shoreline areas for Bluegill up to 9 inches.
Largemouth Bass
Fair
Try using finesse plastics fished along weedlines for Largemouth Bass up to 19 inches.
Green Valley Lake - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Docks are in at the beach and dam boat ramps.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Slow
Try using jigs fished near rocky shoreline areas for crappies of all sizes.
Bluegill
Good
Try using jigs or small worms under a bobber fished along rocky shoreline areas for Bluegill up to 8.5 inches.
Largemouth Bass
Fair
Try using finesse plastics fished along shallow cedar tree brushpiles for Largemouth Bass up to 20 inches.
Three Mile Lake - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Docks are in at main ramp.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Walleye
Fair
Try using jigs or crankbaits fished in 8-12 feet of water for Walleye of all sizes.
Twelve Mile Creek Lake - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Dock is in at main boat ramp.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Bluegill
Good
Try using jigs or worms under a bobber fished along the fish mounds for Bluegill of all sizes.
Largemouth Bass
Fair
Try using finesse plastics fished along rocky shoreline areas for Largemouth Bass up to 19 inches.
Water temperature in most lakes is in the low to mid 70's. For more information, please contact the Mount Ayr Fisheries office at 641-464-3108.
Orient Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Anglers report good bluegill fishing at Orient.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
No Report
 
Bluegill
Good
Bluegills are close to shore spawning at Orient. Fish will average 8 inches.
Channel Catfish
Fair
Channel catfish up to 5 pounds can be caught on cutbait near the cleaning station.
Lake Anita - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
The water temperature is in the mid 70's at Anita.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Black crappies have moved to deeper water and can be caught around tree piles.
Bluegill
Good
Look for bluegills around traditional spawning areas.
Largemouth Bass
Good
 
Viking Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
The Viking Lake water level is now back down 18 inches. All boat ramps are usable.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
No Report
Look for post spawn crappies around deep tree piles. Fish will average 9 inches. There is a large year class of 6 inch black crappie in the lake.
Bluegill
Good
Cast small jigs and move often to find spawning bluegill.
Largemouth Bass
Fair
Fish for bass casting the shoreline just outside the flooded terrestrial vegetation.
Arrowhead Pond - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Water clarity is good at Arrowhead. Water temperature is 75 degrees.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
No Report
 
Bluegill
Good
Bluegills are spawning close to shore and will average 8 inches.
Prairie Rose Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Water clarity is very good at Prairie Rose.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Black crappies have moved off spawning areas and can be caught around deep structure.
Bluegill
Good
Bluegills are close to spawning areas. Cast small jigs and move often to find quality bluegill.
Largemouth Bass
Good
Largemouth bass can be caught all around the lake.
Lake Manawa - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Lake Manawa is 2 feet low at the time of this report.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
No Report
 
Channel Catfish
Fair
Fish Sonny's dip bait or cut bait on windy shorelines for best success. Manawa has catfish of all sizes.
Walleye
Fair
Walleye anglers are having success casting crankbaits.
White Crappie
No Report
 
For information on lakes in the Southwest District call the Cold Springs office at (712) 769-2587.
Don Williams Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Catch crappie fishing live minnows in treefalls or slowly trolling 2 inch or smaller twister tail jigs just out from shore.
Rock Creek Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Good
Catch crappies drifting and trolling small jigs with twister tails, tubes or paddle tails.
Big Creek Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Bluegill
Good
Catch bluegills shallow on beds in 2 to 4 feet of water throughout the lake.
Walleye
Good
Catch walleyes jigging with leeches and nightcrawlers or trolling live bait rigs with minnows or crawlers. Concentrate on the upper half of the lake in 10 to 25 feet of water around road beds, points and humps during the day and shallow in the evenings.
Red Rock Reservoir - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
The crappie spawn is mostly finished in Red Rock. Catch crappies drifting or trolling plastics or small crankbaits in coves off the main lake and Whitebreast arm.
Des Moines River (Stratford to Saylorville Lake) - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Channel Catfish
Good
Catch Channel Catfish fishing in and just above treefalls and log piles with dip baits and cutbait.
Des Moines River (Saylorville to Red Rock) - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Channel Catfish
Good
Catch channel catfish with cutbait and stink baits fished inside and upstream of log piles and treefalls.
For information on Central Iowa lakes and rivers contact Ben Dodd at 641-891-3795 or Andy Otting at 515-204-5885.
SOUTHEAST
Hannen Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Most fish have been 8-9" but some 13-14" fish are available.
Bluegill
Good
Fish up to 10" are being reported.
Channel Catfish
Fair
Most fish reported are about 2 pounds but fish up to 14 pounds have been caught.
Largemouth Bass
Good
Most fish are 1-2 pounds.
Iowa Lake (Iowa Co.) - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
The curlyleaf pondweed is pretty thick around the shorelines. Water temps are around 70 degrees.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Most fish are suspended in open water or on outside weedlines.
Bluegill
Good
Fish will be in pockets of the weeds.
Channel Catfish
Fair
 
Largemouth Bass
Fair
Fish over, along, and in pockets of the weeds.
Lake Macbride - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
The 10 horsepower maximum is in effect along with the 5 mph speed limit.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Fish around shallow wood or rock.
Largemouth Bass
Good
Fish shallower structure and spawning flats.
Spotted bass
Good
Fish shallower structure and spawning flats.
Walleye
Fair
Fish windblown banks or rock reefs.
Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass)
Fair
Most fish are deeper, but some have been feeding shallow or on the surface at sunrise/sunset.
Central Park Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Water temperature is in the low 70's.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Slow
 
Bluegill
Good
 
Channel Catfish
Slow
 
Largemouth Bass
Good
 
Redear Sunfish
Good
 
Pleasant Creek Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Fish around shallow brush. Many fish are around 10".
Bluegill
Good
Fish around shallow rock and sand with worms or wax worms. Most fish are around 7".
Largemouth Bass
Good
Fish around shallow rock and wood.
Walleye
Fair
Fish with jigs tipped with crawlers or minnows.
Diamond Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Good
Some fish are along jetty areas and shorelines with brush, while others are suspended over deep water. Most fish are 8-9".
Bluegill
Good
Fish around shallow rock or sandy pockets.
Channel Catfish
Fair
 
Otter Creek Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
The lake is currently drained for the ongoing renovation project.
Union Grove Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
There is quite a bit of vegetation but some of it has been treated and is dying back.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Fish around shallow brush or rock in pockets or look for fish suspended in open water.
Bluegill
Good
Fish shallow pockets and around rocky areas.
Largemouth Bass
Good
Fish shallow water where fish are spawning.
Walleye
Slow
An occasional walleye is being caught by panfisherman.
Coralville Reservoir - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
The lake level is 683.5' and water temps are in the mid 70's.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Bluegill
Good
Fish shallow rock or sand benches.
Channel Catfish
Fair
Try cutbait in the channel or look for fish preparing to spawn along shallow chunk rock.
Largemouth Bass
Fair
Fish shallow rock and wood in coves.
White Crappie
Fair
Look for remaining spawners around shallow rock flats and points.
Iowa River (Marshalltown to Coralville Lake) - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Channel Catfish
Fair
 
Cedar River (Cedar Rapids to Moscow) - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Shovelnose sturgeon
Good
Fish with crawlers along sandbars.
For more information, contact the Lake Macbride Fisheries Station at 319-624-3615.
Lake Wapello - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Bluegill
Fair
Try small jigs along the shorelines and around structure.
Largemouth Bass
Good
Target areas with structure with jigs or plastics.
Red Haw Lake - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Visitors are asked to avoid the campground area due to the continued storm damage cleanup.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Bluegill
Fair
Try small jigs changing your retrieval speed until finding one the fish like.
Largemouth Bass
Fair
Try plastics fished along the rock jetties and the dam.
Hawthorn Lake - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Crappies will move shallow to spawn. Try small jigs and minnows.
Largemouth Bass
Fair
Target rip-rapped shorelines fishing slow with jigs and plastics.
Lake Miami - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Bluegill
Fair
Try small jigs fished near shore. Keep moving until finding active fish.
Largemouth Bass
Good
Use jigs fished along structure and near shore.
Lake Sugema - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Look for crappie to start gathering around structure and along the shorelines as the water temperature increases. Try small jigs in these areas.
Largemouth Bass
Good
Target rip-rapped shorelines and around the rock jetties using spinnerbaits or jigs.
Rathbun Reservoir - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
The current lake level is 904.74 msl; recreation pool is 904 msl. Lake Rathbun has zebra mussels so make sure to properly drain, clean and dry equipment before transporting to another waterbody.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Some crappies are still up shallow but most have spawned and moved to deeper water. Try jig and minnows around structure.
Walleye
Good
There is a 15-inch minimum length limit on walleye at Lake Rathbun effective January 1st. All walleyes measuring less than 15 inches must be immediately released unharmed. Anglers are catching walleyes trolling bottom bouncers and crawler harnesses.
Wiper (Hybrid Striped Bass)
Fair
Anglers are catching hybrid striped bass trolling or vertically jigging.
For information on lakes in south central Iowa call the Rathbun Fish Hatchery at 641-647-2406.
Lake Geode - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Water temperature is pushing 80 degrees. Water clarity is at 8 feet. The water has a green cast to it from the plankton bloom. Nice to see the water willows survived the renovation's dry lakebed.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Good
The crappies are back out to deeper water along the drop-offs. A big batch of last fall's spawn are 6-8 inch range but there are bigger ones out a little deeper.
Bluegill
Good
Worm and bobber fished in 3-5 foot of water. They've moved out little deeper with the hot weather. Might be a good time to head up to the new mounds up across from the beach to find the bluegills. Most are under 8 inches.
Largemouth Bass
Good
Most are still under the legal size limit but they are fun to catch. Look for most to have moved off to the deepwater drop-offs.
Lake Belva Deer - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Water temperatures is at about 78 degrees. Water clarity at about 8 feet. The curly leaf beds are starting to thin out with the increase in water temperatures.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Good
Fish in the early morning expect to be off the water by 10 am. Start trolling for them out in 9-12 foot of water just outside the flooded trees out from the beach and on down towards the dam.
Bluegill
Good
Work the edges of the curlyleaf beds with worm and bobber or a small jig tipped with a waxworm.
Largemouth Bass
Fair
Most of the nests are done, time to start fishing the top of the mounds at the upper end of the lake as the bass always seem to like to move there to spend the summer feeding on crawdads and green sunfish.
Lake Darling - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
The hot weather has gotten the water temperature up into the upper 70's. Water clarity remains good.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Anglers are still picking up some nice crappies out in 9-10 foot of water around the big cedars in the middle and the big brush piles off the high bank down by the dam.
Bluegill
Good
With the warmer water temps the bluegills are moving off the nests fairly quickly. Move around and you should still be able to find some on the beds.
Largemouth Bass
Fair
Most of the males have left the beds as the little ones have moved away. Look for most of the bass to be moving out to deeper water for the summer.
Lost Grove Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Water temperature has moved up to the mid to upper 70's. Water clarity remains at about 11 feet now. The curlyleaf is starting to thin out a little bit.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
The crappies are setting up in their summer pattern in deeper water. Up by the West boat ramp in the flooded timber seems to be a good place to start looking for them.
Bluegill
Fair
They have moved out a little deeper, hit the edges of the weedbeds near the deeper water drop-offs. Worm and Bobber is hard to beat but a small jig tipped with a waxworm works nearly as well.
Largemouth Bass
Fair
Most of them have moved off the beds as the spawn is coming to an end. Work the edges of the weed beds where the bass like to hunt during the early morning and late evening hours.
Big Hollow Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
The water temperature is up around 80 degrees. Water clarity is about 7 feet.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Crappie fishing is still based out in the 6-8 foot of water zone. Early morning or late evening are the best times to fish for them.
Bluegill
Good
Time to start looking for them out in that 6-7 foot of water zone where they seem to like spending the summer.
Largemouth Bass
Fair
The hot weather has speeded up the development of the young bass and most have moved off the nest. Most of the males have moved off to deeper water with the females.
For more information on the above lakes call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at (31) 694-2430.
MISSISSIPPI RIVER
Mississippi River Pool 19 - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Tailwater stage at Lock and Dam 18 above Burlington is 8.23 feet and falling. Floodstage is 10 feet. River stage at Burlington is 13.33 feet and floodstage is 15 feet. River stage at Fort Madison is 527.01 feet and floodstage is 528.0 feet. We have not received any fishing reports or boat ramp condition reports for this pool this week.
Mississippi River Pool 18 - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Tailwater stage at Lock and Dam 17 in New Boston is 11.75 feet and falling. Floodstage is 15 feet. The gates are out of the water at the Lock and Dam. Toolsboro is closed due to high water. We have not received much for fishing reports for this pool this week.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Bluegill
No Report
Look for bluegills up shallow in the backwaters. Fish with pieces of worm under a bobber. around brush piles. Places to try are Belle Pocket and Huron Island.
Channel Catfish
No Report
Look for channel catfish around brush piles and snags in side channels and along the main channel. Try fishing with dipbaits, cut shad, or night crawlers.
Mississippi River Pool 17 - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Tailwater stage at Lock and Dam 16 in Muscatine is 10.63 and falling. Floodstage is 15 feet. River stage at Muscatine is 12.43 feet and floodstage is 16 feet. The ramps at Muscatine are open. The boat ramp is open at Big Timber but the landing is partially covered with water. The Kilpeck Landing and Port Louisa Landings are still closed. We have not received much for fishing reports for this pool yet. The gates are still out at the Lock and Dam.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Bluegill
No Report
Look for bluegills up shallow in the backwaters. Try fishing with a piece of worm under a bobber around brush. Places to try are Big Timber, Cleveland Slough, and Eagle Fill.
Channel Catfish
No Report
Look for channel catfish around brush piles in the side channels and main channel. Try fishing with dipbaits, cut shad, or nightcrawlers.
Walleye
No Report
Look for walleyes are current breaks. Try casting jigs with plastics or crankbaits.
White Bass
No Report
Look for white bass around current breaks or down by GPC. Try casting jigs and plastics or crankbaits.
Mississippi River Pool 16 - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Tailwater stage at Lock and Dam 15 in Davenport is 11.79 feet and falling steadily. Floodstage at Lock and Dam 15 is 15 feet. River stage at Fairport is 12.08 feet and floodstage is 14 feet. The Marquette St. ramp in Davenport is open. The ramps at the Fairport Recreational area are open and the docks are in. The boat ramps at Clark's Ferry and Shady Creek are also open.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Bluegill
Fair
Look for bluegills up shallow in the backwaters. Try fishing around brush piles with pieces of worm under a bobber.
Channel Catfish
No Report
Look for channel catfish around brush piles and snags along the main channel. Try fishing with dipbaits, shad guts, or nightcrawlers.
Walleye
Fair
There have been a few reports of walleyes being caught around current breaks along the main channel. Try fishing with crankbaits.
White Bass
No Report
Look for white bass in Sylvan Slough or in Sunset Marina. Try fishing with jigs and twister tails or in-line spinners.
Mississippi River Pools 16-19. River stages are below floodstage and forecasted to keep falling. Main channel water temperature is around 72 degrees and water clarity has been fair. Some boat ramps are starting to open back up. If you have questions on fishing Pool 16-19 contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.
Mississippi River Pool 15 - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
The water level at Rock Island is dropping and is near 11.6 feet. Water clarity is improving and water temperature is 75 degrees.
Mississippi River Pool 14 - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
The water level at Fulton is receding and is near 11.6 feet, 14 feet at Camanche and near 8 feet at LeClaire. Levels are predicted to drop several feet this week. Temperature is 75 degrees. Clean up of parks and ramps after the flood is progressing.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Bluegill
Fair
Bluegills are beginning to spawn on the Mississippi River and hopefully waters stabilize for these nest building fish.
Channel Catfish
Fair
Channel catfish fishing is picking up with warm temperatures in the next few weeks. Try cut-bait or stink bait in the current seams.
Freshwater Drum
Good
Simple egg sinker with a worm rig is the best way to catch abundant drum.
Largemouth Bass
Good
Starting to catch bass along the shorelines after in retreating flood waters.
Paddlefish
No Report
Paddlefish season is now closed. Flooding conditions are optimal for successful Paddlefish spawns and we hope this year's flood creates another strong year class.
Shorthead redhorse
No Report
 
Smallmouth Bass
Good
Casting inline spinners just off rock points has been good for smallmouth feeding in the rocks.
Mississippi River Pool 13 - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
The water level at Lock and Dam 13 feet is dropping at Bellevue and is near 12 feet and will fall to near 9 feet. Water clarity is decent, and the water temperature is around 73 degrees. Water levels have dropped out of all flood stages and quickly receding. It will take some time to clean up boat ramps and parks after the flood.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Bluegill
Fair
Bluegills are spawning. Hopefully the water will stabilize soon to provide stable nesting areas.
Channel Catfish
Good
Try to catch Channel Catfish in places like Middle Sabula Lake which should not be affected by flood conditions. Also fishing in flood waters should be able to yield abundant channel cats.
Flathead Catfish
Fair
Some folks are starting to use live bullheads or bluegills to catch flathead catfish in the tailwater areas.
Freshwater Drum
Good
Simple egg sinker with a worm rig is the best way to catch abundant drum.
Largemouth Bass
Excellent
Lots of bass biting in the marina areas and backwater lakes.
Paddlefish
No Report
Paddlefish season is now closed. Flooding conditions are optimal for successful Paddlefish spawns and we hope this flood creates another strong year class.
Rainbow Trout
No Report
The area around the pond is mostly fishable right now but vegetation is really starting to move in. Trout probably left the pond but other species may have moved in after the flood.
Shorthead redhorse
No Report
 
Smallmouth Bass
Good
Casting inline spinners just off rock points has been good for smallmouth feeding in the rocks.
Yellow Perch
No Report
Smaller yellow perch seem to be in the system and that bodes well for yellow perch fishing this upcoming year.
Mississippi River Pool 12 - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
The river is dropping with the level at Lock and Dam 11 being near 11 feet and predicted to reach 8 feet at Dubuque and level at the RR bridge is 13 feet and falling to 10 feet this week. Water temperature is around 73 degrees, and the water clarity is improving. Places like Massey Ramp are launchable but will take some time to clean up the park.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Bluegill
Fair
Bluegills are spawning. Hopefully the water will stabilize soon to provide stable nesting areas.
Channel Catfish
Fair
Channel catfish fishing is picking up with warm temperatures in the next few weeks. Try cut-bait or stink bait in the current seams.
Freshwater Drum
Good
Simple egg sinker with a worm rig is the best way to catch abundant drum.
Largemouth Bass
Excellent
Lots of bass biting in the marina areas.
Shovelnose sturgeon
Good
The catch of shovelnose sturgeon has been good using heavy weight and a gob of worms for bait. Most angling is in the tailwater in moderately strong currents.
Smallmouth Bass
Fair
Casting inline spinners just off rock points has been good for smallmouth feeding in the rocks.
Walleye
Good
Some nice catches of walleye have been recorded feeding on minnows near shore.
White Bass
Good
Fish can be found in flooded conditions as a majority of fish will be located along the shorelines. Try minnows or small spinners for white bass feeding in these locations.
Yellow Perch
Good
Lots of smaller yellow perch seem to be in the system and that bodes well for yellow perch fishing this upcoming year. It will still be possible to catch species like yellow perch along hard shoreline banks even during the flooding conditions.
The river is receding throughout the district and levels are expected to fall several feet next week. Water temperatures are in the mid 70's. The recent snow melt flood was ranked the 3rd highest in this stretch of River. Debris clean-up is mostly complete on parking lots and boat ramps. If you have angling questions, please call Bellevue Fisheries Management at 563-880-8781.
Mississippi River Pool 11 - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Water level at Guttenberg is 11 feet and predicted to fall to near 8 feet over the next week. Guttenberg city ramp and the DNR ramp are open. Turkey River Landing is still closed. Finley's and Mud Lake are open. The bite is picking up with the warmer water. Water temperature is the mid 70's.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Fish the flooded trees using a light jig or a minnow rig.
Bluegill
Good
Fish a garden worm under a bobber along shore with less current such as marina areas or backwaters. A lot of sorting with some nicer sizes being caught.
Channel Catfish
Fair
Try a crawler or cut-bait in the current seams as water temperature rises this week.
Flathead Catfish
Fair
Some flatheads are being caught on live bluegill or shiners.
Freshwater Drum
Good
The drum or actively feeding. Fish a weighted crawler from the shoreline.
Northern Pike
Fair
Cast flashy spoons and crankbaits for Northern Pike near the mouths of streams during hot summer days.
Sauger
No Report
 
Shorthead redhorse
Fair
Redhorse are running and are fun to catch from shore. Drop a weighted crawler into the current breaks.
Walleye
Slow
Walleye slot length limits now apply on the entire Iowa border of the Mississippi River. All walleyes less than 15 inches long and between 20-27 inches must be immediately released. One walleye over 27 inches may be kept. Walleye/sauger combined daily limit 6/possession 12.
Yellow Perch
Excellent
Fish for perch using a light jig or crawler in weeded areas away from heavy current.
Mississippi River Pool 10 - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Water level at Lynxville is near 619.8 feet and expected to fall to 616 feet this week. Noble's Island, Harpers Ferry and Bussey Lake are all open. The Sny Magill road is still inaccessible. The bite is picking up with warmer water temps. Water temperature is 75 degrees at the Lynxville dam.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Fish the flooded trees using a light jig or a minnow rig.
Bluegill
Good
Fish a garden worm under a bobber along shore with less current such as marina areas or backwaters. A lot of sorting with some nicer sizes being caught.
Channel Catfish
Fair
Try a crawler or cut-bait in the current seams as water temperature rises this week.
Flathead Catfish
Fair
Some flatheads are being caught on live bluegill or shiners.
Freshwater Drum
Good
The drum or actively feeding. Fish a weighted crawler in moderate current from the shoreline
Northern Pike
Fair
Cast flashy spoons and crankbaits for Northern Pike near the mouths of streams during hot summer days.
Sauger
No Report
 
Shorthead redhorse
Good
Redhorse are running and are fun to catch from shore. Drop a weighted crawler into the current breaks.
Walleye
Slow
Walleye slot length limits now apply on the entire Iowa border of the Mississippi River. All walleyes less than 15 inches long and between 20-27 inches must be immediately released. One walleye over 27 inches may be kept. Walleye/sauger combined daily limit 6/possession 12.
Yellow Perch
Excellent
Fish for perch using a light jig or crawler in weeded areas away from heavy current.
Mississippi River Pool 9 - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Water level at Lansing fell to 10.2 feet and is expected to drop to near 8 feet over the next week. Heytman's Landing is now open. Army road at New Albin will reopen by the weekend. Water temperature is near 72 degrees.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Fish the flooded trees using a light jig or a minnow rig.
Bluegill
Good
Fish a garden worm under a bobber along shore with less current such as marina areas or backwaters. A lot of sorting with some nicer sizes being caught.
Channel Catfish
Fair
Try a crawlers or cut-bait in the current seams as water temperature rises this week.
Flathead Catfish
Fair
Some flatheads are being caught on live bluegill or shiners.
Freshwater Drum
Good
The drum or actively feeding. Fish a weighted crawler in moderate current from the shoreline
Northern Pike
Fair
Cast flashy spoons and crankbaits for Northern Pike near the mouths of streams during hot summer days.
Sauger
No Report
 
Shorthead redhorse
Good
Redhorse are running and are fun to catch. Drop a weighted crawler into the current breaks.
Walleye
Slow
Walleye slot length limits now apply on the entire Iowa border of the Mississippi River. All walleyes less than 15 inches long and between 20-27 inches must be immediately released. One walleye over 27 inches may be kept. Walleye/sauger combined daily limit 6/possession 12.
Yellow Perch
Excellent
Fish for perch using a light jig or crawler in weeded areas away from heavy current.
Upper Mississippi River water levels are expected to fall several feet next week. Most boat ramps have reopened. Call ahead for local conditions. Water temperatures are reaching into the mid 70's. Fishing activity is picking up with improved water clarity.
NORTHEAST
Casey Lake (aka Hickory Hills Lake) - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Anglers have been catching bluegill and largemouth bass.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Bluegill
Fair
Cast lighter jigs over spawning beds or small piece of crawler under a slip bobber.
Largemouth Bass
Fair
Fish topwater artificial lures or spinnerbaits for largemouth bass.
Lake Delhi - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Anglers have been catching crappie and bluegill on Lake Delhi, some sorting may be necessary. Avoid weekends and evenings due to heavy boat traffic.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Good
Cast lighter jigs tipped with plastics for some great action, fish near structure or docks for best success.
Bluegill
Good
Cast lighter jigs over spawning beds or small piece of crawler under a slip bobber
Brinker Lake - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Anglers have been catching crappie and bluegill during the spring spawn.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Cast lighter jigs tipped with plastics for some great action or fishing a minnow under a slip bobber.
Cedar River (Nashua to La Porte City) - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
The Cedar River has fallen and is providing catches of smallmouth bass, walleye and channel catfish.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Channel Catfish
Excellent
Anglers have had success on channel catfish using dead chubs or cutbaits fished on the bottom.
Smallmouth Bass
Fair
Fish plastics with a jig or casting and retrieving spinnerbaits for smallmouth bass.
Walleye
Good
Fish plastics with a jig for some good walleye action.
Shell Rock River (Greene to Shell Rock) - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
The Shell Rock River has fallen and is providing catches of walleye, smallmouth bass and channel catfish.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Channel Catfish
Fair
Use dead chubs or cutbaits fished on the bottom for some channel catfish.
Smallmouth Bass
Fair
Fish plastics with a jig or casting and retrieving spinnerbaits for smallmouth bass.
Walleye
Fair
Fish plastics with a jig for some good walleye action.
Wapsi River (Tripoli to Troy Mills) - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
The Wapsipinicon River is falling and is producing catches of smallmouth bass, walleye and channel catfish.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Channel Catfish
Good
Use dead chubs or cutbaits fished on the bottom for some channel catfish.
Smallmouth Bass
Good
Fish plastics with a jig or casting and retrieving spinnerbaits for smallmouth bass.
Walleye
Good
Fish plastics with a jig for some good walleye action.
Maquoketa River (above Monticello) - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Anglers have been catching walleye and smallmouth bass on the Maquoketa River.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Smallmouth Bass
Fair
Fish plastics with a jig or casting and retrieving spinnerbaits for smallmouth bass.
Walleye
Good
Fish plastics with a jig for some good walleye action.
Interior water levels have fallen and are providing catches of smallmouth bass, walleye and channel catfish. Check the USGS website (https://waterdata.usgs.gov/ia/nwis/rt) for most recent river levels. Lakes in and around Cedar Falls/Waterloo have been productive for crappie, bluegill and largemouth bass. Trout streams are in excellent condition, for further information contact your local bait shop for most recent reports.
Volga Lake - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Water temperatures upper 60's. Fish activity improving especially in near shore rocky areas.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Good
Fish along the rocky edges in deeper water.
Bluegill
Fair
 
Channel Catfish
Good
Trophy catfish plentiful in this lake. Use a large crawler fished under a bobber in the evening for some fun action.
Largemouth Bass
Good
Find bass in the shallow bays. Use a crank or spinner bait for luck.
Lake Hendricks - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Water clarity great. Water temperatures in the upper 60's. Bluegills and bass spawning.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Good
Crappie action picking up as water warms.
Bluegill
Good
Anglers fishing near shore finding gills. Use a small chunk of worm fished under a bobber.
Largemouth Bass
Good
Bass spawning in shallow water. Bass will guard nests.
Lake Meyer - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Water clarity about 3 ft. with temperatures in the upper 60's.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Good
Crappie beginning to bite. Fish near shore edges using a small jig.
Bluegill
Fair
Use a small piece of worm under a bobber.
Largemouth Bass
Excellent
Try using a spinner bait fished in 3-4 ft. water. Bass are on spawning beds and are aggressive.
Upper Iowa River (above Decorah) - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Water temperatures in the 70's and good to excellent clarity. Water levels stabilizing. Use caution during early season paddling. Log jams and other strainers may have moved. Hypothermia is still a threat with cooler water temperatures.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Smallmouth Bass
Good
Fish near undercut banks and current breaks. A flashy jig works well. Fly anglers using streamers picking up some action.
Walleye
Good
Angling for walleye picking up below dams. Use a jig tipped with a plastic tail or crankbait.
Turkey River (below Clermont) - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Water clarity good to excellent. Levels stabilizing. Water temperatures in the 70's.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Smallmouth Bass
Good
Fish the eddies and off channel areas. Use a jig with a twistertail.
Walleye
Good
Early morning or late evening are best. Fish the deeper holes using a crank or spinner bait.
White Sucker
Good
Fish the deeper holes with a worm fished near bottom.
Cedar River (above Nashua) - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Flows remain elevated but water levels stable. Water temperatures 70's.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Channel Catfish
Good
A dead chub or stink baits fished in slack water areas may peak a catfish's interest.
Smallmouth Bass
Good
Fish the eddies and current breaks.
Walleye
Good
Use jig tipped with minnow or worm below dams. Try using a 3-way rig with enough weight to keep on bottom.
Decorah District Streams - Last Updated: 05/31/2023
Area streams in good condition. All stocked streams are announced at least once a month. Stocking continues at traditional rates, weekly or bimonthly. The only activity on private property open to fishing is angling.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Brook Trout
Fair
Good hatches of a variety of gnats, mayflies, caddis flies, and midges occurring.
Brown Trout
Good
Fish near or around logs or undercut banks. Spinner baits work well. Also try using streamers on larger waterbodies for some exciting action.
Rainbow Trout
Excellent
Use spinner baits, hair jigs, or hooks tipped with a small piece of worm, bread, or cheese floating through deeper holes. Freshly stocked fish are waiting to take your bait.
Area interior rivers and streams are stable. Clarity good to excellent on most. Temperatures in the low 90's during the day to mid 60's overnight. Possibility of thunderstorms through weekend. For more information, please contact the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery at 563.382.8324.
NORTHWEST
Spirit Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Water temps are in the upper 60s.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Bullhead
Good
Anglers have been very successful fishing the north grade.
Black Crappie
Fair
Many nice sized fish have been seen lately.
Bluegill
Good
Try using a small hook and a small piece of worm.
Walleye
Good
Leaches and minnows have been working well.
Yellow Perch
Fair
 
East Okoboji Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
The water temperature is in the low 70s.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
 
Bluegill
Fair
Try using a small hook and piece of worm.
Walleye
Good
 
Yellow Perch
Fair
Sorting will most likely be needed.
Minnewashta Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
 
Bluegill
Fair
 
Pumpkinseed
Good
 
Silver Lake (Dickinson) - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Courtesy docks are in place. Check out the Iowa Walleye Challenge running from 5/1 - 6/30 for prizes given to anglers reporting their walleye catch!
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Walleye
Fair
 
West Okoboji Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Water temperatures are in the mid 60s. Check out the Iowa Walleye Challenge running from 5/1 - 6/30 for prizes given to anglers reporting their walleye catch!
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Try small jigs tipped with a minnow.
Bluegill
Fair
 
Walleye
Good
Leaches and minnows have been working well.
Yellow Perch
Fair
Sorting may be needed.
Ingham Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Walleye
Fair
Anglers have been successful morning and evening.
Lost Island Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Water temps are in the lower 70s. Check out the the Iowa Walleye Challenge being held 5/1 - 6/30 for prizes given to anglers catching the most Walleye.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Good
 
Walleye
Good
 
Courtesy docks are in for the season. Water temperatures are in the upper 60s to low 70s. Most area water levels are a few inches over crest. In general the fish bite has been very good across most areas. Fishing from docks is getting easier as fish move to shallower water to spawn.
Beeds Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Good
Fish a small jig or minnow near trees in the water.
Bluegill
Slow
 
Clear Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Water temperature is in the low 70's. Lake level is 1/2 inch above crest. Water clarity is 6 feet. Clear Lake has a protected slot on walleye. All walleye between 17 and 22 inches must be immediately released unharmed. No more than one walleye longer than 22 inches may be taken per day.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Good
Anglers are catching crappies around the rush beds. Best bite has been in the morning.
Channel Catfish
Fair
Fish a piece of cut bait on the bottom from the wind-swept shore.
Largemouth Bass
Fair
 
Walleye
Good
Anglers are having success fishing a jig and minnow near vegetation.
Yellow Bass
Good
Fish a small jig near vegetation and around the island. Best bite is early morning.
Crystal Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Good
Fish a minnow or jig near woody habitat.
Bluegill
Fair
 
Rice Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
 
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Bluegill
Fair
Fish a small piece of crawler under a bobber in 3 to 4 feet of water.
Largemouth Bass
Fair
 
Walleye
Slow
Best bite is after sunset.
Yellow Perch
Slow
 
Silver Lake (Worth) - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Bluegill
Fair
Fish a small piece of crawler under a bobber in 2 to 3 feet of water. With the clear water you may have to cast further to avoid spooking the fish.
Largemouth Bass
Good
 
Yellow Perch
Slow
 
Winnebago River - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Water level on 6/1 is 5.7Ft.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Northern Pike
No Report
 
Walleye
No Report
.
For more information on the lakes and rivers in north central Iowa, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517.
Brushy Creek Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Surface water temps are around 70 degrees.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Fish along weed edges in 5-10 feet of water using a small jig or minnow.
Bluegill
Fair
Fish the edges of the vegetation along shore in 2-6 feet of water.
Largemouth Bass
Fair
Fish along the weed lines in 2-6 feet of water.
Muskellunge
Fair
 
Walleye
Fair
 
Storm Lake (incl Little Storm Lake) - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Water temps are in the low 70's. Water clarity is roughly 2 feet. All walleye between 19 and 25-inches must be immediately released unharmed at Storm Lake; and no more than one walleye longer than 25-inches can be taken per day.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Channel Catfish
Fair
There is a good population of 3-6 lbs catfish. Fish the bottoms from shore with cut bait or dip baits.
Walleye
Fair
Try leeches from shore in the evenings. Also try the edges of the dredge cuts with crawler harnesses or crankbaits.
Yellow Bass
Fair
Most fish are in the 5-7 inch range.
Yellow Perch
Slow
 
North Twin Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Temps are in the low 70's. Water levels remain low, take care when loading boats at the ramps.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Fish along shore and docks with a small jig or a minnow and jig under a bobber.
Walleye
Fair
Boat anglers have had luck using planer boards and crankbaits.
Swan Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Water temps are in the mid 70's.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Most of the crappie have moved off shore but a few are still being picked up.
Bluegill
Good
Anglers have had luck with bluegill from shore. Most fish are in the 7 inch range.
Black Hawk Lake - Last Updated: 06/01/2023
Water temps are in the mid 70's.
Anglers have been picking up fish in Town Bay, along shore near Ice House Point, the inlet bridge, and near the outlet.
Fish Name
Status
Comments
Black Crappie
Fair
Much of the Crappie action has moved off shore. Anglers have had luck fishing the rock piles. Some sorting is needed. Fish along Ice House point shoreline and from boat in 2-6 feet of water.
Bluegill
Fair
Fish are up to 7-8 inches and can be picked up along shore with crawlers or small jigs under a bobber.
Channel Catfish
Fair
 
Muskellunge
Fair
 
Walleye
Fair
Most fish being caught are in the 12-18" range. Fish are being picked up along shore and from boat.
Yellow Perch
Fair
 
Water temps in most area lakes are in the low to mid 70's. For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.