The latest Iowa DNR fishing report shows warm temperatures are speeding up spawning activity across Southeast Iowa lakes, with bluegill and bass anglers continuing to find success.
At Big Hollow Lake near Burlington, water temperatures have climbed to 75 degrees with very good water clarity. Bluegills remain on the nests, though the hot weather is causing fish to move in and out quickly. Male largemouth bass are still guarding nests in shallow flooded timber.
At Lake Belva Deer near Sigourney, crappies have shifted into deeper summer patterns along old creek channels. Anglers are having better luck targeting bluegill near weed beds and largemouth bass around flooded trees and shallow nesting areas.
Lake Darling near Brighton continues to provide good bluegill and largemouth bass action. Fisheries staff say the early heat has accelerated spawning activity, with fish moving rapidly between nesting areas and deeper summer habitat.
At Lake Geode near Danville, water temperatures are now in the mid-70s. Bluegill spawning activity remains fair, while largemouth bass continue guarding nests in shallow water. Anglers are encouraged to use jigs or soft plastics for reaction strikes.
On the Skunk River between Rose Hill and Coppock, falling water levels have slowed the catfish bite somewhat, though anglers are still catching channel catfish using minnows, green sunfish, and nightcrawlers.
Elsewhere in the region, Lake Wapello is reporting slow bluegill action but fair largemouth bass fishing around cedar tree piles, while Rathbun Reservoir continues to see fair crappie and catfish action as fish move closer to shore in warming water.
For updated conditions and complete reports, anglers can contact their local Iowa DNR fisheries office.