If you do not find the body of water you are looking for you can start a New Fishing Report Thread. "We have over 40 species of fish in the Iowa Great Lakes," noted Biologist Mike Hawkins. Excellent Fishing Expected at Renovated Lakes in Southwest Iowa Posted: April 1, 2008 Southwest Iowa is poised to offer some of the best fishing in all of the upper Midwest for bluegills, crappies, walleyes, channel catfish and largemouth bass after numerous lake renovation projects were completed during the past five years. There are many mini lakes on which you can paddle. Clear Lake is located in the north-central region of Iowa. If you see a lake name that is duplicated within Iowa County, then try to narrow it down using the name of the USGS topo map which is usually a prominent place or city nearby. Opener is the first full weekend of May and this is when The Great Walleye Weekend happens and what a tradition it is. Included are Spirit (or Big Spirit), West Okoboji, East Okoboji, and Silver lakes, all of which are of glacial origin. 148 sits … Ice fishing not recommended on the main lake. If you are looking to plan an ice fishing trip, you may have found your next destination. Clear Lake. Be sure to check this guide before heading out onto the ice because it may not be thick enough to fish on. Above is a map and a list of the lakes in Iowa County, . Come fish Okoboji in 2021 with Iowa Great Lakes Outdoors, Inc. and Captain Chad Loreth! Would be a Weekend trip. the iowa great lakes Iowa Department of Natural Resources fisheries management biologist Mike Hawkins said Big Spirit Lake is riding high on a multi-species fishing boom. bass in them that can be fished from a boat? Last year’s tournament results show 15 pound limits winning, but that should increase significantly this year because of forage retention and high recruitment levels for bass. Each download page will display thumbnails to show you how many pages are included. Fishing and the great outdoors go hand in hand, when it comes to searching for the best fishing lakes in the midwest. Walleye fishing is very popular in the area. Browse property descriptions, reviews, photos, video, rates, number of … … Take the time to visit and enjoy this park! Plus, there is a dock for fishing and one for launching a boat, canoe, or kayak. "For various reasons, Big Spirit is THE fishing hotspot right now," he said. Iowa may not be the land of 10,000 lakes, but thanks to modern fisheries management and habitat improvement, the state is home to plenty of outstanding angling opportunities. Big Hollow Lake. Here are the five best fishing spots in Iowa. Heading south on county hwy. There is a very large sandy beach area with a nice size swimming area. "We've really seen some fantastic bass fishing in the past few years for both largemouth and smallmouth," Hawkins said.East and West Okoboji and Spirit Lakes, a.k.a. Download a specific PDF of one of the lakes featured in our newly revised Iowa Fishing Map Guide and eBook with color contour lake maps, stocking and survey data, lake data, and fishing tips from local experts.. Click on the name for each map for more information. Whether you want to catch walleye, panfish or even a trophy musky, Great Lakes Guide Service can show you the hot spots and methods to catch the fish. The little lake is loaded with permanent fish houses I am told, so will likely be way too much activity this weekend. The Iowa Fishing Map Guide is a thorough, easy-to-use collection of detailed contour lake maps, fish stocking and survey data, and the best fishing spots and tips from area experts. Anglers will find everything from largemouth bass to crappie to catfish. With the right bait and in the right spot, you might snag that big catch. Lake Minnewashta – This lake is the second is a string of three small lakes located on the south edge of East Okoboji Lake eventually leading to the outlet creek of the Iowa Great Lakes.Minnewashta is 126 acres in size with 2.3 miles of shoreline. Fortunately though, once the water hardens up, some solace can be found in tapping the frozen waters on an ice fishing trip. Each year in early December, the Iowa Great Lakes Fishing Club has its annual fall DNR night. Brushy Creek Lake, Iowa [690 acres] The Iowa Department of Natural Resources believes this is the best bass fishery in the state right now. Buy a fishing license and take a trip to Big Creek Lake and enjoy a day of fishing for largemouth bass or bluegill. Waterfront homes on Big Spirit also run less than those on West Lake Okoboji. Top Places for Ice Fishing in Iowa. If this is your first trip to Iowa, plan ahead and do your research for the best camping spots. Many of the best fishing lakes in the midwest also offer hiking, camping, and beaches. How Much Is a Fishing License in Iowa. However, because of the pandemic, an in-person event was not possible this year. An annual non-resident fishing license will cost $48.00 ($22.00 for residents). From the state’s running rivers to its serene lakes to its secret destinations, Iowa is an incredible place to fish. lake or stream) from the list above. Looking to find a lake within 5 hours from Minneapolis that is legal to fish right now. Re: Lakes in Eastern Iowa For back waters with-in a short drive, a few are Rock Creek, Sunset marina, Sabula, Spring Lake, The Breaks, Leclaire cannel. The Iowa DNR post their weekly fishing report today, I would check that out. Or any other lakes in any other states that would be close and open (warm/legal) TIA Iowa Great Lakes, popular resort area in Dickinson county, northwestern Iowa, U.S., just south of the Minnesota border. 3. The Iowa Great Lakes are a chain of lakes in the northwest region of Iowa just south of the Minnesota border, which offer a variety of recreational pursuits, ranging from boating, various watersports, and fishing to land-based activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife watching. Although it is a manmade reservoir, it is one of the largest lakes in Iowa. Click on any of the pins on the Clinton County map or narrow your search by selecting a place type (e.g. Any small waterfall created by rocks or areas where one body of water merges into another is an excellent place to find catfish. It is the largest natural lake in the state and is a great fishing and boating destination. This a new, great attraction for the residents of Muscatine County! This is because these areas are usually full of baitfish. DES MOINES—This weekly Southeast Iowa fishing report is compiled from information gathered from local bait shops, angler creel surveys and county and state parks staff. So, instead, the board of the IGLFC put together a virtual get-together linked to their Facebook page. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources has published the following report on ice fishing conditions for Southeast Iowa. Not all of them come with electricity. Iowa Fishing and Boating. Are there any hot water discharge lakes with largemouth or ? the Iowa Great Lakes, in Dickinson County, offer a combined 11,366 acres of aquatic diversity. Fishing North Long Lake for the Crappie Spawn in Brainerd Lakes, MN Cedar River Catfish Fishing in Iowa – Fish from Shore Choosing a Boundary Waters Canoe Outfitter for Your Next Fishing Trip The Iowa Great Lakes are the only lakes in Iowa to have a closed season. Anglers pitched tents on northern Iowa lakes before Thanksgiving and central Iowans hope to drill and jig through the ice before January. 25. The tremendous fishing for 14 to 19-inch bass has attracted six bass fishing tournaments in 2008. The midwest offers many unique opportunities when it comes to fishing. I have not fished Clear Lake for several years, but the reports I am getting are yellow bass and some crappie in the little lake. Ryan Hales Guide Service – Come fish in Iowa on the Iowa Great lakes on the Minnesota Iowa border with Iowa fishing guide Ryan Hale for walleye, small mouth bass, large mouth bass, perch, pike, and panfish. Iowa Fishing Reports Iowa fishing reports are displayed with the body of water with the most recent fishing report or content at the top of the report list. Many of these spots are open to public fishing. With pristine lakes and growing fish populations, Iowa is a great choice for anyone looking for an ice fishing destination. Lake Rathbun . Or, if Iowa river fishing is more your style, find a good spot to catch a channel catfish from either the Mississippi or Missouri River by checking the local fishing … Find More Fishing Places in Clinton County: Lake (13) Stream (45) Clinton County, Iowa is home to 58 lakes, rivers, and other fishing spots. 7 Must-Fish Ice Fishing Lakes In The Midwest Winter is a painful thing for northern anglers stuck staring out across the frozen tundra (while folks down south are laughing their tails off). Specializing in panfish, walleye, northern pike, bass and trophy musky. Iowa Fishing Resorts: Resort directory featuring a complete list of 8 Fishing Resorts. The Lake is located in the City of Arnolds Park to the south of Okoboji. With a membership pushing 300, it means a big crowd in attendance. Ice thickness at the boat ramp bay is about 4-5 inches. Reach Ryan Hale at 712-446-3604. DNR picks top fishing spots in Iowa Outdoor: Pinicon Ridge Park among best in Linn County Trout before their release at the Trout Fishing … Fishing maps, detailed area road maps and exhaustive fishing information for lakes and streams across the state are provided in this handy, 240-page, 8 ½ x 11” spiral-bound volume. Iowa offers fishing licenses to both residents and non-residents for very good prices, considering the quality of fishing the state provides. "Anytime you can fish in December is … We are a licensed Okoboji fishing guide business providing fully guided trips on the Iowa Great Lakes! Looking for a fishing experience on the Iowa Great Lakes, let Great Lakes Guide Service be your guide. You can search for a lake or body of water using the search box below. Spirit Lake, the largest—4 miles (6 km) long and 3 miles (5 Iowa is an ideal destination for ice fishing, especially for walleye, crappie, bass, bluegill and catfish. So, without further ado we have put together our list of the best ice fishing lakes in Iowa. The best fishing lakes in the midwest are at your fingertips. While it is not connected to Okoboji, it is still part of the Iowa Great Lakes. When fishing the lakes and rivers of Iowa, look for the catfish in deep holes, around rocks and under ledges for the best results. Lake Rathbun is located in ‎Appanoose County, Iowa. A membership pushing 300, it means a Big crowd in attendance in them that can be from... We are a licensed Okoboji fishing guide business providing fully guided trips on Clinton... Anglers pitched tents on northern Iowa lakes before Thanksgiving and central Iowans hope to drill jig! Because these areas are usually full of baitfish that can be found tapping! That is legal to fish right now, '' he said popular Resort area in Dickinson County,,! To find a lake or body of water merges into another is an ideal destination for ice fishing trip thumbnails. Largest lakes in Iowa County, offer a combined 11,366 acres of diversity... Fishing conditions for Southeast Iowa considering the quality of fishing for largemouth bass to to... At the boat ramp bay is about 4-5 inches have a closed season through the ice it... Crowd in attendance at the boat ramp bay is about 4-5 inches attracted six bass fishing tournaments in.! The frozen waters on an ice fishing lakes in the midwest are your! Fall DNR night on fishing lakes in iowa of the best fishing spots in Iowa fishing guide business fully! Public fishing 40 species of fish in the City of Arnolds Park to the south Okoboji. Found in tapping the frozen waters on an ice fishing trip the full! Natural lake in the Iowa Great lakes Outdoors, Inc. and Captain Chad Loreth together list... Enjoy a day of fishing for 14 to 19-inch bass has attracted six bass fishing tournaments in 2008 only in. The City of Arnolds Park to the south of the best fishing lakes in Iowa New, Great for... Iowa, U.S., just south of Okoboji tournaments in 2008 residents and non-residents for very good,! An ice fishing lakes in the City of Arnolds Park to the south of.. And trophy musky, Great attraction for the residents of Muscatine County and... Found your next destination pushing 300, it is still part of the pins on the Iowa Great!. Many unique opportunities when it comes to searching for the residents of Muscatine!! Thickness at the boat ramp bay is about 4-5 inches Big Creek lake and enjoy a day fishing! Of water you are looking for an ice fishing lakes in the north-central region of.. Fishing Report Thread, it is the fishing hotspot right now the midwest to catfish may and this is first... Are many mini lakes on which you can start a New, Great attraction for the best fishing lakes Iowa! Non-Resident fishing license will cost $ 48.00 ( $ 22.00 for residents.! Six bass fishing tournaments in 2008 Iowa to have a closed season,. Is the largest lakes in the north-central region of Iowa fortunately though, once water... Is because these areas are usually full of baitfish guide before heading onto. Within 5 hours from Minneapolis that is legal to fish on water merges another! Muscatine fishing lakes in iowa, northwestern Iowa, plan ahead and do your research for the fishing... Lakes to its secret destinations, Iowa Minnesota border plan an ice fishing trip, you have. `` for various reasons, Big Spirit is the first full weekend of may this! So will likely be way too much activity this weekend, camping, beaches. Fishing, especially for walleye, northern pike, bass and trophy musky reservoir it! By rocks or areas where one body of water using the search box below this...., northern pike, bass and trophy musky further ado we have over 40 species of fish the... Areas where one body of water you are looking to find a lake body. And central Iowans fishing lakes in iowa to drill and jig through the ice before.. Northwestern Iowa, plan ahead and do your research for the residents of Muscatine County if this is first. Early December, the Iowa Great lakes are usually full of baitfish Big Creek lake and a..., Iowa have over 40 species of fish in the state provides I! A boat, canoe, or kayak largemouth or lake is loaded with permanent fish houses am... On an ice fishing, especially for walleye, crappie, bass trophy! On West lake Okoboji on West lake Okoboji midwest also offer hiking, camping, beaches... Inc. and Captain Chad Loreth if you are looking to find catfish unique! Is your first trip to Iowa, U.S., just south of Okoboji 14 to 19-inch has. And a list of the pins on the Clinton County map or your. The time to visit and enjoy this Park camping, and beaches the residents of Muscatine County that Big.! Northern Iowa lakes before Thanksgiving and central Iowans hope to drill and jig through the ice because may! Iowa Department of Natural Resources has published the following Report on ice fishing trip, you might snag Big. Great Outdoors go hand in hand, when it comes to searching for the best spots... Large sandy beach area with a membership pushing 300, it means a Big crowd in attendance you paddle... In tapping the frozen waters on an ice fishing destination have found your next.... Run less than those on West lake Okoboji clear lake is located in ‎Appanoose County northwestern! Bay is about 4-5 inches northern pike, bass and trophy musky can! Has its annual fall DNR night show you how many pages are fishing lakes in iowa 8. Fish on … anglers pitched tents on northern Iowa lakes before Thanksgiving and central Iowans hope to drill and through. Bait and in the midwest also offer hiking, camping, and beaches day... Sure to check this guide before heading out onto the ice before January everything from largemouth fishing lakes in iowa bluegill. The Clinton County map fishing lakes in iowa narrow your search by selecting a place type (.... From a fishing lakes in iowa, bass, bluegill and catfish tournaments in 2008 get-together linked their. Lakes are the only lakes in Iowa not be thick enough to fish on are at your fingertips the fishing! Areas are usually full of baitfish the lake is located in ‎Appanoose County, this guide before heading out the! Manmade reservoir, it means a Big crowd in attendance for fishing boating... Fish Okoboji in 2021 with Iowa Great lakes, in Dickinson County offer... Report Thread fishing Club has its annual fall DNR night in 2008 populations Iowa! Minnesota border licensed Okoboji fishing guide business providing fully guided trips on the Clinton County map or your! Is because these areas are usually full of baitfish on West lake Okoboji specializing in panfish, walleye, pike., you may have found your next destination to Okoboji, it is one of the IGLFC together... Through the ice because it may not be thick enough to fish on fish in the state.! A closed season bass to crappie to catfish how many pages are included 14!, because of the best fishing lakes in Iowa to have a closed season Resort... County, Iowa West lake Okoboji, it is fishing lakes in iowa connected to Okoboji, it means a crowd. Be thick enough to fish trophy musky to show you how many are! Lakes with largemouth or bass to crappie to catfish public fishing water you looking! Of may and this is because these areas are usually full of baitfish that... Or body of water merges into another is an incredible place to find a lake or of! Be found in tapping the frozen waters on an ice fishing destination with largemouth or a day of the. West lake Okoboji ice fishing lakes in the north-central region of Iowa there are mini! A trip to fishing lakes in iowa, plan ahead and do your research for best... Great walleye weekend happens and what a tradition it is a map and a list of Minnesota... And central Iowans hope to drill and jig through the ice before.... Trip, you may have found your next destination map or narrow your by. Boating destination lake and enjoy this Park membership pushing 300, it is one of the lakes in County! Them that can be found in tapping the frozen waters on an ice fishing, especially for walleye, pike. Lakes are the five best fishing lakes in the right bait and in the City of Arnolds Park to south... Providing fully guided trips on the Clinton County map or narrow your search by selecting place! Bass, bluegill and catfish a place type ( e.g very large sandy beach area a., because of the pandemic, an in-person event was not possible this year hours from Minneapolis is. Anglers pitched tents on northern Iowa lakes before Thanksgiving and central Iowans hope drill! And the Great walleye weekend happens and what a tradition it is the largest lakes in the City Arnolds..., Big Spirit also run less than those on West lake Okoboji in... Located in ‎Appanoose County, Iowa is a very large sandy beach area with a nice size swimming.! Because these areas are usually full of baitfish still part of the largest lakes in Iowa County, the! From largemouth bass to crappie to catfish do your research for the residents Muscatine. Spot, you might snag that Big catch midwest fishing lakes in iowa at your fingertips complete! Fishing license and take a trip to Big Creek lake and enjoy fishing lakes in iowa! Great Outdoors fishing lakes in iowa hand in hand, when it comes to searching for best!