As the sun rises over Spirit Lake, East Lake Okoboji, and West Lake Okoboji on May 3, eager anglers will cast their lines into the waters, marking the 150th walleye fishing season in Iowa’s Great Lakes. The highly anticipated event promises great fishing opportunities, thanks to a healthy walleye population observed during spring broodstock collection efforts at the Spirit Lake Fish Hatchery.
Fishing enthusiasts can look forward to a season stretching until February 14, with regulations designed to maintain sustainable populations. The protected slot limit for walleyes spans 19 to 25 inches, with a maximum daily catch of three fish and a possession limit of six. Additionally, anglers are allowed just one walleye over 25 inches per day.
Beyond walleye, Iowa’s Great Lakes teem with other sought-after species. As waters warm, panfish, northern pike, and bass fishing will flourish, offering further excitement to visiting anglers. Current water levels remain slightly above crest in the Okoboji chain, while Spirit Lake sits a few inches below crest.
With thousands expected to hit the water, officials urge anglers to check safety equipment and prepare boats in advance to minimize congestion at busy ramps. The weekend also brings competitive fun with the 43rd annual Iowa Great Lakes Walleye Weekend Fishing Contest, hosted by the Iowa Great Lakes Chamber of Commerce. For more information on the contest, visit their website.
Additionally, the Midwest Walleye Challenge welcomes anglers to contribute valuable data toward managing Iowa’s walleye populations through a citizen science project. Participants’ catch records help fisheries biologists develop strategies to maintain healthy numbers of these prized fish. For more information and to sign up visit their website.
Our fellow Community First Broadcasting partner, KUOO in Spirit Lake, will be broadcasting the KUOO Morning Show live from the Iowa Great Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce to kick off the annual Walleye Weekend. Visit their website for more information.
Good luck to all the anglers this weekend. It should be beautiful weather for it!
(Photo courtesy of fellow Community First Broadcasting partner KUOO)
