After weeks of thinning or virtually no ice, it appears that ice fishing in southeast Iowa has come to a close, barring a significant freeze. In the Fishing Report for the week of March 9 from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, a majority of lakes and ponds in the area were ice-free.

Southeast Iowa lakes reporting no ice this week were Big Hollow Lake in Des Moines County, Lake Belva Deer in Keokuk County, Lake Darling in Washington County, and Lost Grove Lake in Scott County.

Very little angular activity was reported at these sites, however anglers may have the opportunity for Channel Catfish in Lake Darling. It is recommended that they choose a warm afternoon and find a spot where the wind is blowing into the rocks. Cut bait is also recommended.

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