Weekly Northwest Iowa DNR Fishing Report for April 2nd

Northwest Iowa — Here is the weekly Northwest Iowa Fishing Report from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, as released on Thursday, April 2nd.

Spirit Lake Management District

  • Contact Person: Jed Siegwarth – 712-330-2542

Most boat ramp courtesy docks are in place. Water levels are at crest. Water temperatures should remain low with the current cold weather and rains. The walleye season is closed on the Iowa Great Lakes until May 2nd. Last updated on 04/02/2026

East Okoboji Lake (Dickinson)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 40.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable

The lake is ice-free; all ramps are open. The walleye season is closed until May 2nd.


Ingham Lake (Emmet)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 40.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable

Lost Island Lake (Palo Alto)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 40.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable

Some anglers are catching fish from shore.

  • Yellow Bass – Fair: Anglers reported lots of smaller yellow bass during the ice season.

Silver Lake (Dickinson) (Dickinson)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 40.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable

Spirit Lake (Dickinson)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 43.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable

Boat ramp docks are in. The channel at Templar Park boat ramp is open, allowing easier travel to and from the lake. The walleye season is closed until May 2nd.

  • Black Crappie – Good: Anglers are catching most fish in 16 feet of water. It’s easiest to get on top of fish with electronics. Try 1/16th and 1/32nd ounce jigs with a minnow or plastic.
  • Yellow Perch – Fair: Anglers were catching good amounts of quality-size, 9- to 13-inch fish during the ice season.

West Okoboji Lake (Dickinson)

  • Water Temperature (°F): 40.0
  • Ramp Condition: Useable

The lake is ice-free; all ramps should be available for use. The walleye season is closed until May 2nd.

  • Bluegill – Slow: Anglers were successful on the major bays during the ice season.

KIWA Staff Photo

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