Anglers across southeast Iowa are finding the best success during the early morning and evening hours as hot summer temperatures continue to warm area lakes.
At Lake Geode near Mount Pleasant, water temperatures have reached 85 degrees with reduced visibility due to algae blooms. Black crappie are holding around fish habitat in about 10 feet of water near the old Agency Road and haul road, while larger bluegills are staying in 8 to 10 feet of water. Most anglers are wrapping up their fishing by 9:30 each morning.
Lake Darling remains high but continues to slowly fall. Water temperatures are around 81 degrees, with green water from an algae bloom. Bluegills are feeding over deeper habitat in 8 to 10 feet of water, especially early and late in the day. Bass have moved to deeper water during the heat but can be found on points near drop-offs during the morning hours.
At Big Hollow Lake, duckweed has become thick around the boat ramp bay and several coves, though open water remains accessible. Crappies are suspended 10 to 12 feet deep near flooded timber, while bluegills are holding in 6 to 7 feet of water.
Lake Belva Deer continues to experience a plankton bloom, limiting water clarity to about two feet. Crappies are being caught by anglers slow trolling in 10 to 14 feet of water near the beach and dam before 10 a.m. Bluegills are in deeper flooded timber, while bass have shifted to habitat structures and underwater mounds.
River conditions have improved somewhat. The Iowa River has dropped about three feet over the past week, and catfishing is expected to improve if water levels remain steady. The Skunk River has also fallen about a foot and a half, with fair channel catfish action. Anglers fishing near mulberry trees may want to try using the fallen fruit as bait.
The Iowa DNR reminds boaters to clean, drain and dry boats and equipment after every trip to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.