Expect to find 7.5 to 8.5 inch bluegills and 13 to 20 inch largemouth bass as they were common in the 2024 fisheries surveys conducted at Anita. There is a fair number of 8 to 9 inch black crappie in the lake, though they were difficult to sample for as a result of the nuisance levels of white water lilies along the shore. Channel catfish maintenance stockings produces a good population of 15- to 17-inch fish with some trophy sized >20-inch fish in the population. Fingerling walleye stocked by the IDNR and the Friends of Lake Anita has resulted in low density population. Lake Anita is one of the better overall fishing lakes in SW Iowa. - Last updated on 02/03/2025.
In nearly all cases, Iowa fish are safe to eat. Cleaning and/or preparing the meal causes most of the problems regarding taste or color of fish. Like all living creatures, fish are susceptible to diseases, parasites, and other naturally occurring conditions in the water. If you suspect your fish is affected by any of these conditions, do not eat it. Consider eating smaller and younger fish which usually have lower levels of contaminants than larger ones. Most contaminants accumulate in larger, older fish. For additional information, check out our resources for eating and cooking Iowa caught fish.
To learn more about fish tissue monitoring, visit our Fish Tissue Monitoring page .
The summaries listed below are a partial listing provided for your benefit. Familiarize yourself with the complete Fishing Regulations here: Iowa DNR Fishing Regulations and Laws.