Tips for Ice Fishing in Iowa

Yellow Smoke Lake

Yellow Smoke Lake in western Iowa is Iowa's best-kept secret. Located a few miles northeast of Denison, this lake has benefited from being overlooked by most fisherman. With recent erosion control along its north shoreline and sand additions to encourage spawning, there are plenty of bluegills and a scattering of crappies. Look for areas where patches of old trees have pierced through the ice. The fish tend to congregate in these areas.

Aerial View of Lake Iowa

Located in east central Iowa in the heart of Iowa County, Lake Iowa Park has greatly benefited from recent renovations such as the addition of brush piles and stake beds, which cause fish to gather in a small area. If you head below the Nature Center of Lake Iowa, you'll find a great fishing spot with bluegills, crappies and redear sunfish. Where you find clusters of holes recently drilled in the ice, you will probably find good fishing.

Briggs Wood Lake Freezing Over

With a recently installed silt dike and maintained by the Webster County Conservation Board, the waters of Briggs Woods Lake have plenty of bluegills and largemouth bass. Two miles south of Webster City, Briggs Woods Lake also features a campground. The best place to drill holes is in the eastern side of the lake, with a line 10 to 20 feet in depth.

Various Ice Fishing Rods

Avoid plastic baits. Go for soft bait made from natural substances like water-based resins. There will be more scent distribution the moment the bait hits the water. Also, remember that smaller bait attracts more fish. Choose rods that are made for the specific conditions and restraints of ice fishing. Be sure to talk to your supplier about which rod is right for you. Finally, consider investing in super lines. These micro ice lines are almost invisible and provide strength against the ice and the pulling power of the fish.