Here is the weekly Northwest Iowa Fishing Report from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, as released 2/22/2024.
East Okoboji Lake
Unsafe ice conditions. The walleye season is closed until May 4. Black Crappie – Fair: Use minnows and plastics. Bluegill – Fair. Yellow Perch – Fair: Sorting will most likely be needed.
Ingham Lake
The lake is mostly ice covered; unsafe ice conditions. Walleye – Fair: Anglers have been successful morning and evening.
Lost Island Lake
The lake is mostly ice covered; unsafe ice conditions. Black Crappie – Fair. Walleye – Fair.
Minnewashta Lake
The walleye season is closed. Black Crappie – Fair. Bluegill – Fair. Pumpkinseed – Good.
Scharnberg Pond
Trout were stocked recently. You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.
Silver Lake (Dickinson)
The lake is mostly ice covered; unsafe ice conditions. Walleye – Fair.
Spirit Lake
Unsafe ice conditions. The walleye season is closed until May 4th. Black Crappie – Good: Minnows and plastics work well. Many nice-sized fish have been seen lately. Bluegill – Fair. Yellow Perch – Good: Find good numbers; may need to sort for size.
West Okoboji Lake
Unsafe ice conditions. The walleye season is closed until May 4th. Black Crappie – Fair: Try small jigs tipped with a minnow. Bluegill – Good. Pumpkinseed – Good. Yellow Perch – Fair: Sorting may be needed.
Area ice conditions have deteriorated extensively making ice fishing impossible. Many shallower lakes have started to open up in areas; shorelines are receding. The walleye season is closed on the Iowa Great Lakes until May 4th. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.
