Spirit Lake, Iowa — The Iowa Department of Natural Resources issues a weekly fishing report on Thursdays in an effort to provide the latest information heading into the weekend. The weekly fishing report is compiled from information gathered from local bait shops, angler creel surveys, and county and state parks staff. For more information contact the Spirit Lake fish Hatchery at 712-336-1840.
NORTHWEST
Black Hawk Lake
The lake has skimmed over with thin ice. Look for conditions to improve next week. There are open water angling opportunities in the fish house on Ice House Point.
Brushy Creek Lake
Little fishing activity to report. Any ice is unsafe for travel.
North Raccoon River (above State Highway 175 bridge near Auburn)
As anglers wait for ice conditions to improve, open water opportunities can still be found in rivers. Use chubs and twisters for walleye or cut bait for catfish fished in pooled areas below riffles.
Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Storm Lake has skimmed over with thin ice. Conditions are extremely variable; as of Thursday, Dec. 12, ice fishing is not recommended. Look for conditions to improve with colder temperatures next week.
Lakes in West Central Iowa have skimmed over but, as of Thursday, Dec. 12, ice is unsafe. Very few anglers have been out. Colder temperatures throughout next week should improve conditions. For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.
Clear Lake
Ice thickness ranges from 2 to 5 inches. Use caution near rush beds and areas with current. The west aeration system is in operation.
Rice Lake
The winter aeration system is in operation for the season. Waterfowl are keeping a few areas open. Use caution near any of these areas, especially on the downwind sides.
Silver Lake (Worth)
The winter aeration system is in operation for the season. Bluegill – Fair: Water clarity has been good; fish low light periods with small ice jigs and insect larvae.
Ice conditions are improving across northern Iowa. Use a spud bar and/or drill test holes when fishing this early season ice. For information on the lakes and rivers in the north central area, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517.
Spirit Lake
Anglers are just starting to head out on the ice; ice conditions range from 4-6 inches. Smaller bays are seeing the thickest ice; use extreme caution on the ice and check conditions often.
West Okoboji Lake
West Okoboji was the last lake to fully ice up, locking up Dec. 12. Use extreme caution when heading out on the ice; check ice thickness and conditions regularly.
Most area lakes are fully frozen, ranging from 1-6 inches. Smaller bay areas have the thickest ice conditions. Anglers are just starting to head out on the ice; use extreme caution. Review your safety plan and equipment, use flotation, and check ice thickness and quality often. For current conditions, call the Spirit Lake District Office at 712-336-1840.
