Big Hollow Lake – Water temperature is around 75 degrees. Crappie fishing is picking up with fish holding in 6–8 feet of water around trees. Largemouth bass remain active but are expected to move into deeper water as hot weather sets in.
Cedar River (Moscow to Columbus Junction) – Water levels are falling about a foot a week. Channel catfish bite is good, but forecasted heat may slow action as water warms.
Iowa River (Columbus Junction to Mississippi River) – Water levels continue to drop about a foot a week, exposing more sand bars. Channel catfish are good; target logjams with cut bait or dead shad as flow decreases.
Lake Belva Deer – Water temperature is 72–73 degrees with 18 inches of clarity and a green tint. Bluegills remain mostly in 10–12 feet of water among flooded timber. Largemouth bass were shallow earlier in the week but will likely move deeper with rising temperatures.
Lake Darling – Water temperature is about 72 degrees with good clarity below a surface layer of planktonic algae. Bluegills are starting to move shallower but many remain in 8–9 feet of water. Channel catfish bite is fair. Largemouth bass are active but expected to shift deeper as heat returns.
Lake Geode – Water temperature is 73–74 degrees, clarity around 20 inches, and a green color. Crappies are holding in habitat near deeper water. Bluegills are biting well in 7–8 feet of water. Largemouth bass are working along deep-water drop-offs.
Lost Grove Lake – Water temperature is 70 degrees with about 3.5 feet of clarity. Bluegills are active in 4–5 feet of water around habitat. Largemouth bass are striking crankbaits along weed bed edges and submerged brush.
Skunk River (Coppock to Mississippi River) – River levels are dropping about a foot a week but remain navigable with caution. Channel catfish bite is good, especially off the back edges of sand bars and near brush piles.
For more details, contact the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.