In the latest Fishing Report from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, water levels were too low in the Iowa and Skunk rivers for ample information, however anglers still have opportunities to test the bite in southeast Iowa.

Water temperatures in Washington County’s Lake Darling were hovering between 75 and 78 degrees in the last week. The green cast in the water is clearing up in patches as the phytoplankton dies back. The Bluegill and Black Crappie bites are both fair as Crappies continue to stay in deeper water. For Bluegills, try the rock piles with a slip bobber and worm or jig and worm fished down at least 3-4 feet. Catfish conditions are good as they fatten up for the fall. Meanwhile, the Largemouth Bass bite remains slow. Bigger Bass are still holding out in deeper water for fall weather.

In Keokuk County, Lake Belva Deer’s water temperatures are holding in the upper 70’s. The Bluegill bite is fair, with nicer ones waiting for things to cool down before entering the shallows. The Catfish bite is good, and fishing off the docks by the south ramp is still going strong. Boat anglers should work the face of the dam using large bobbers to keep their bait just above the rocks. Similar to Lake Darling, Largemouth Bass conditions are slow due to warmer afternoons. Some smaller Bass are cruising the shallows.

For more information on the above lakes, contact the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430.