The latest conditions from the Lake Darling Management District show water temperatures continuing to cool across area lakes, shaping fish behavior as we head toward late fall.
At East Lake Park Pond in Henry County, rainbow trout remain active following a recent stocking. With water temperatures in the mid-50s, the trout are still circulating the pond in their typical pattern, staying mostly in mid-depths as they move around the shoreline.
At Lake Darling in Washington County, water temperatures are hovering near 50 degrees. Black crappie activity is fair, with fish behaving much like they do under early-ice conditions—holding near deeper structure and responding to subtle presentations. Bluegill are also in deeper water this week, settling into 8 to 10 feet as conditions cool. Their activity remains fair as they adjust to winter patterns.
At Wilson Lake in Lee County, water temperatures are also in the mid-50s, and rainbow trout are showing excellent activity following recent stocking efforts.
For additional updates or lake-specific information, anglers can contact Lake Darling Fisheries at 319-694-2430.