Anglers in southeast Iowa continue to have bite opportunities as fall is in full swing. The water temperature in Big Hollow Lake in Des Moines County sits at 64 degrees. Look for Bluegill in 5-6 feet of water in the brush, and around the island downhill from the campground.
Water temperature in Lake Belva Deer in Keokuk County remains at 62 degrees with water clarity at three feet. The Black Crappie and Bluegill bite is fair. Crappie have been spotted around the edges of flooded timber in deeper water. With bluegill not yet in the shallows, look for them off the ends of jetties and around the trees in 6-8 feet of water.
In Washington County, Lake Darling water temperatures have dropped to around 60 degrees, with water clarity at about 30 inches. Black Crappie and Bluegill fishing continues to pick up. For crappie, a jig and minnow or minnow and slip bobber in 10-12 feet of water is recommended. Bluegill are being caught over the rock piles and brush piles in 5-7 feet of water.
Lost Grove Lake in Scott County remains in the low 60s. Water clarity is between two and three feet. Bigger Bluegills can be found in 6-7 foot water around the flooded brush. Largemouth Bass can be found hunting sunfish in the shallows.
The Skunk River from Coppock to the Mississippi River ranges from 58-60 degrees, with water levels still very low. Fish are expected to swim to their overwintering holes soon.
For additional fishing information contact the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430