Here’s your updated Southeast Iowa Fishing Report from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
At Lake Geode in Henry County, water temperatures are running between 84 and 86 degrees. Most fish are staying above 11 feet of water where oxygen levels are better. Crappie fishing remains slow over the old Agency Road, while bigger bluegills are being found around fish habitat in 8 to 10 feet of water.
At Big Hollow Lake, water temperatures are in the mid-80s with plenty of open water despite some duckweed. Crappies are holding along flooded timber in 6 to 8 feet of water. Bluegill action is fair using worms under a bobber or vertical jigging, and bass anglers are finding success around the campground islands and jetty with crankbaits and spinnerbaits.
Lake Darling continues to produce fair bluegill and bass fishing. Bluegills are relating to rock and brush piles in 8 to 10 feet of water, especially during the evening hours. Bass are also biting best during the last couple of hours before sunset.
At Lake Belva Deer, bluegills are being caught over submerged mounds and along the old creek channel, while largemouth bass are holding around habitat, jetties and underwater structure in 10 to 12 feet of water.
The Skunk River from Rose Hill to Coppock is at a good floating level, and channel catfish activity is improving as water levels stabilize. Early mornings and bankline fishing should be productive this weekend.
The DNR also reminds boaters at Lost Grove Lake and Rathbun Reservoir to help prevent the spread of invasive species by cleaning, draining and drying boats and equipment before leaving the water.