DNR Fishing Report

Finally, the ice is thick enough most spots to be safe. Watch as the weather warms. Do not take chances. As always watch the Mississippi backwater ice carefully.

Big Hollow Lake: 7-8 inches of ice. Black Crappie- Fair: Fishing has been pretty hit and miss. Some are getting a limit and others not so much. Most are working edge of the trees along south side across from campground and down towards the dam.

Lake Geode: No Report.

Iowa Lake (Iowa Co.): Ten inches of ice reported. Black Crappie- Fair; Bluegill- Fair

Lake Darling: After a few very cold days, Darling has about 8 inches of good ice. Geese and swans are keeping about 2 acres of open water just west of the middle of the lake. The last few days have seen very little angler activity. Expect increase with forecasted warmer weather.

For more information on the above lakes and rivers call the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.

Mississippi River Pool 18: Tailwater stage is 5.11 feet at Lock and Dam 17 at New Boston and has been fluctuating this past week. Main channel and Toolsboro ramp are frozen up, We have not received any ice condition reports for this pool this week.

Mississippi River Pool 19: Tailwater stage is 2.12 feet at Lock and Dam 18 above Burlington. We have not received any fishing reports. We have not received any ice condition reports for this pool this week.

Tailwater stages have been fluctuating this past week. Main channel temperature is around 32 degrees. The main channel has frozen up with recent cold temperatures. Tailwater stages are fluctuating which could create unsafe ice conditions, especially along the shorelines.

If you have questions on fishing Pools 16-19, contact the Fairport Fish Hatchery at 563-263-5062.