By Mike Hawkins, Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Discover world-class angling in the heart of Iowa.
Fishing the Iowa Great Lakes is more than a favorite pastime—it’s a way of life in Okoboji and a premier outdoor adventure in the Midwest. With over 50 species of fish, crystal-clear waters, and incredible lake diversity, the region draws anglers from all over the country. Whether you’re chasing trophy bass, searching for panfish near the dock, or exploring new opportunities like the reintroduction of paddlefish, there’s always something biting in the Iowa Great Lakes.
Big lakes. Big fish. Big fun. That’s the tagline seasoned anglers and first-timers alike have come to associate with fishing the Iowa Great Lakes.
A Landscape Born from Ice, Now Perfect for Fishing
When early settlers arrived in the Midwest, they were greeted by a vast ocean of prairie. Today, it’s hard to imagine just how endless that tallgrass wilderness once felt. Much of northwestern Iowa lies within what’s known as the prairie pothole region—a landscape sculpted 10,000 to 12,000 years ago by retreating glaciers. These glacial formations gave rise to the thousands of wetlands and lakes that once dotted the area. Though many of those water bodies have disappeared, the natural lakes that remain are now cornerstones of recreation and ecology in the region.
A Fisherman’s Paradise
Fishing the Iowa Great Lakes means access to one of the healthiest and most diverse fisheries in the Midwest. From tiny darters and rare Pugnose Shiners to monster northern pike and channel catfish, the range of species is astounding. While some, like walleyes, are supported by stocking, most populations are entirely self-sustaining—thanks to excellent habitat and water quality.
East Okoboji Lake, for example, saw a dramatic transformation around 2015 when water clarity improved. Aquatic plants began to grow, offering better habitat for fish. Panfish and predators like bass responded immediately, and the lake’s biodiversity flourished—proving the power of clean water and aquatic vegetation.
Variety of Lake Types = Variety of Fishing
The Iowa Great Lakes chain includes lakes of all shapes and depths. Spirit Lake, a shallow and productive dish-shaped lake, is a classic example of a prairie pothole, rich with perch, walleye, and northern pike. In contrast, West Okoboji Lake reaches depths of 136 feet and features a seasonal thermocline, creating deep, cool-water habitats and fishing opportunities not found in surrounding lakes.
Whether you’re casting from shore or trolling deep rock piles, fishing the Iowa Great Lakes offers year-round action—from spring walleye runs to winter ice fishing frenzies.
Getting Started: Tips for Success
If you’re new to fishing, panfish like bluegills are a great place to start. They gather near docks and shorelines in spring and fall and can be caught with light tackle and small hooks.
Walleye anglers will benefit from using chest waders to access nearshore feeding zones at dawn or dusk. Use light gear to feel the bite and finesse your bait.
Modern mapping apps can also make a huge difference, helping you locate underwater drop-offs, weed lines, and fish-holding structure during summer heat.
A Comeback Story: The Paddlefish Returns
Among the most exciting developments in fishing the Iowa Great Lakes is the return of the American Paddlefish. These gentle giants once thrived in the area but vanished by 1920. Thanks to stocking efforts by the Iowa DNR, the paddlefish is making a comeback.
In 2024, paddlefish raised at Rathbun Hatchery were introduced into the Okoboji Chain. These fish can grow over 100 lbs and use electroreception to filter-feed on plankton. By 2025, many are expected to surpass 30 inches in length, offering a new, exciting dimension to the region’s sport fishing options.
Plan Your Fishing Getaway
Fishing the Iowa Great Lakes is more than casting a line—it’s an immersion into pristine nature, a celebration of conservation, and a chance to create lifelong memories. From trophy muskies to easy-to-catch bluegills, there’s no better place in the Midwest for big lakes, big fish, and big fun.
Ready to cast your line? Stay a while, catch a memory, and experience the magic of fishing the Iowa Great Lakes.