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
Storm Lake (including Little Storm Lake)
Ice is deteriorating quickly; several areas of open water are present. With continued warm temperatures and forecasted winds, anglers are discouraged from venturing onto the ice.
Big Spirit Lake
Northern Pike – Fair: Anglers are beginning to have success using tip-ups on the north end of Spirit, Anglers Bay, Hales Slough, and along the grade. Yellow Perch – Slow: Very few yellow perch are being caught during the day. The only perch being caught are coming from anglers who are staying out on the ice past sunset.
West Okoboji Lake
Bluegill – Fair: Bluegill are still being caught in 10-12 feet in bays with distinct weed lines. These fish are reported to be biting on small gold and yellow jigs. Bays with these weed lines include: Emerson, Miller, Triboji, Echo, and Browns. Yellow Perch – Fair: The perch bite has consolidated into a select few bays including Emerson and Haywards. These bays have been reporting consistent 9 inch perch. Fishermen are moving around following these schools rather than holding in one place. Fish are being caught on jigging rapalas, Acme sidewinder, Lindy little Joes, and kastmasters. Perch are reported in Smiths Bay into East Lake in 10-12 feet. Crappie – Fair: Anglers are having good success catching crappie in 10 feet of water in Smiths Bay leading into East Lake. Yellow Bass – Fair: Yellow bass are being caught in Smiths Bay into East Lake in 10 feet.
Silver Lake (Dickinson)
Yellow Perch – Fair: Anglers are noticing an increase in perch activity around the lake. Fish are said to be schooling in the deeper holes and staying for longer periods of time allowing anglers to harvest good numbers. Small spoons and jigging raps produce the most success.
