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 will likely be completely ice free soon. Anglers have been fishing open water near the inlet and in Town Bay.
Black Hawk Pits
Anglers have had luck fishing open water along the south end of Black Hawk Pits. Black Crappie – Fair: Anglers are picking up keeper sized fish near the south end.
Brushy Creek Lake
Any remaining ice is unsafe.
Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Any remaining ice is unsafe. The Marina is ice free; look for fishing activity in the marina to pick up as water temperatures increase.
Some lakes are partially or completely open. Any remaining ice is unsafe. For more information, contact the Black Hawk District office at 712-657-2638.
Clear Lake
Unsafe ice conditions.
Lower Pine Lake
No open water yet.
Winnebago River
The river level is three feet high and dropping. Now is the time to target pike; fish areas with current breaks.
Ice fishing is not advised. For information on the lakes and rivers in the north central area, contact the Clear Lake Fish and Wildlife office at 641-357-3517.
East Okoboji Lake
Channel Catfish – Good: Prime time is here; ice-out provides an excellent bite using traditional baits. Fish twilight and after dark; fish will be on a feeding frenzy and provide lots of “pole bending” action.
Spirit Lake
Ice is changing and deteriorating daily. No ice fishing activity in the Iowa Great Lakes and area lakes.
For more information throughout the week, contact the Spirit Lake Fish Hatchery at 712-336-1840.
