Cooler fall temperatures are slowly improving fishing conditions across southeast Iowa, though some lakes are still adjusting after seasonal turnover. Water clarity remains strong in most areas, and fish activity is gradually increasing as species prepare for winter.
At Big Hollow Lake, water clarity is high with plenty of duckweed on the surface. Anglers are reporting better crappie action in deeper water, around 10 to 12 feet.
The Iowa River continues to drop, exposing many sandbars and making boating more difficult. Shoreline anglers are finding good success with channel catfish along rocky banks, while a few white bass are being caught below Wapello.
Lake Belva Deer recently turned over, improving water quality despite a lingering green tint. Crappie activity is slowly picking up in 10 to 12 feet of water around submerged trees.
At Lake Darling, turnover has brought oxygen levels up throughout the lake. Crappie and bass bites are fair, with fish holding in deeper water around habitat structures. Bluegill activity remains slow.
Lake Geode also experienced turnover this week, mixing the water and dispersing algae. Fish are still adjusting to fluctuating temperatures, with crappies staying tight to habitat areas in 8 to 10 feet.
For detailed conditions and weekly updates, visit the Iowa DNR’s interactive fishing report page.