As temperatures continue to climb in southeast Iowa’s lakes and ponds, so too do the opportunities for local anglers.

Bite conditions are fair for black crappies, bluegills, and bass in Washington County’s Lake Darling. While most crappies are in deeper water, some are along the shorelines. Bluegills can be found near the rocks using small jigs. On warmer, sunny days, bass have been moving to shallow water to feed.

In Keokuk County, water clarity in Lake Belva Deer remains fairly good despite the recent rainfall. The black crappie bite is fair. Some have moved into shallow water, but a majority remain in 10-12 feet of water.

Lake Geode in Henry County is seeing fair bite conditions for black crappies as well. Anglers were picking some up earlier in the week along the rock piles and mounds across from the beach area.

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