Regional, Iowa — Here is this week’s Northwest Iowa Fishing Report as released by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Thursday, April 30th.
Spirit Lake Management District
- Contact Person: Jed Siegwarth – 712-330-2542
Most lake temperatures are in the low 60s. Many fish species have started to move into shallower water; bites have started to pick up. The walleye season opens on the Iowa Great Lakes at 12AM Saturday, May 2. Expect many anglers to be out for the walleye opener. Last updated on 04/30/2026
- Water Temperature (°F): 62.0
- Ramp Condition: Useable
All ramps are open. The walleye season opens May 2nd.
- Black Crappie – Slow
- Bluegill – Fair
- Pumpkinseed – Fair
- Water Temperature (°F): 62.0
- Ramp Condition: Useable
- Water Temperature (°F): 60.0
- Ramp Condition: Useable
Some anglers have been catching fish from shore.
- Yellow Bass – Fair
Silver Lake (Dickinson) (Dickinson)
- Water Temperature (°F): 60.0
- Ramp Condition: Useable
- Water Temperature (°F): 60.0
- Ramp Condition: Useable
Boat ramp docks are in. The channel at Templar Park boat ramp was cleared allowing easier travel to and from the lake. The walleye season opens May 2.
- Black Crappie – Good: Anglers are catching fish in 16 feet of water. Using electronics makes it easy to get on top of fish. Try 1/16th and 1/32nd ounce jigs with a minnow or plastic.
- Bluegill – Fair: Some anglers have been successful with hook, worm and bobber from shore.
- Yellow Perch – Fair: Anglers were catching good amounts of quality-size, 9- to 13-inch fish during the ice season.
- Water Temperature (°F): 56.0
- Ramp Condition: Useable
All ramps should be available for use. The walleye season opens May 2.
- Bluegill – Fair
KIWA Staff Photo
