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Fishing At Clear Lake In 2024

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By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, green sunfish, pumpkinseed sunfish, white bass, yellow bass, yellow perch, muskie and northern pike at Clear Lake in Iowa.

Clear Lake, IA

Known as a great water-activity destination in summer, Clear Lake is a favorite of anglers for great fishing. Over 25 miles of shoreline wrap around this 3,700-acre lake in north-central Iowa at the town of Clear Lake.

The purpose of this page is to deliver an overview of this lake, the fishing options, and area amenities. Our goal is to provide info to first time visitors, as well as beginner and novice anglers. We gathered details from personal experience, numerous trusted websites that each offer select bits of information, and videos of fishing activity on the lake. These websites include the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, marinas at the lake, campgrounds, boat rental agencies and others. By consolidating this information to one page it allows visitors to see the entire picture, all in one place.

Lake Video

Clear Lake in Iowa is a renowned fishing destination, offering anglers exceptional opportunities to reel in a variety of popular fish species. As Iowa's third-largest natural lake, Clear Lake boasts a thriving ecosystem that supports a diverse range of fish, making it a paradise for anglers of all skill levels.

Walleye fishing is particularly excellent in Clear Lake, with the lake's fertile waters providing an ideal habitat for this prized game fish. Anglers can target walleye using various techniques, including trolling with crankbaits or live bait rigs. The lake is known for producing trophy-sized walleye, attracting anglers in pursuit of a thrilling catch and the chance to land a personal best.

Yellow bass, a smaller cousin of the walleye, are another popular species in Clear Lake. These feisty fish are known for their aggressive strikes and abundance, making them a favorite among anglers. Yellow bass can be caught using small jigs, spinners, or live bait near submerged structures or drop-offs. They provide excellent action and are ideal for anglers of all ages, including beginners and families.

Clear Lake also offers opportunities to catch other species such as black crappie, bluegill, largemouth bass, and northern pike. Anglers can target black crappie and bluegill using small jigs or live bait near vegetation or submerged brush piles. Largemouth bass can be found around weed beds, structure, and docks, providing thrilling fishing experiences. Northern pike, known for their aggressive nature and impressive size, can be targeted using larger baits and fishing near areas with good cover.

In summary, Clear Lake in Iowa is a prime fishing destination, offering anglers the chance to catch walleye, yellow bass, crappie, bluegill, largemouth bass, and northern pike. With its excellent fishing opportunities, boating possibilities, and nearby camping facilities, Clear Lake provides a complete outdoor experience for those seeking both relaxation and thrilling angling adventures in the heart of Iowa.

The lake has generous populations of bass, catfish, crappie, walleye, sunfish, perch, muskie and northern pike, most of which can be caught year round. In winter, once there is safe ice, excellent ice fishing for yellow bass, perch and sunfish draws local fishing enthusiasts. The town of Clear Lake encircles most of the lake and offers easy access to camping, restaurants, convenience stores, bait and tackle, lodging and public areas for fishing from the bank. Boat ramps, marinas and boat rentals are also convenient to visitors. Kayaks, canoes, fishing boats, pontoons and pleasure boats are all ideal watercraft here. Come for a quick fishing trip or an extended vacation, both the town and lake will show you a great time.

Fishing Boats For Rent In Iowa

Primary fish species residing in Clear Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Largemouth bass Channel catfish Flathead catfish Black crappie White crappie Walleye Bluegill Green Sunfish Pumpkinseed Sunfish White Bass Yellow Bass Yellow Perch Muskie Northern pike

Clear Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity on Clear Lake, with boat ramps available for easy access to the water. Anglers can explore different areas of the lake, search for productive fishing spots, and take advantage of the lake's vast expanse. Boaters can enjoy water skiing, tubing, or simply cruising along the picturesque shoreline.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Clear Lake Boats - Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats
641 357-0961

Movement Solutions
Rentals: Fishing vessels and pontoon boats
641 357-3535

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Downtown Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off Main Avenue, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with street parking.

South Shore Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off Nelson Street, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with street parking.

South Shore/17th Avenue Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off 17th Avenue S, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with street parking.

Ventura Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, off E Lake Street, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

Marinas

Clear Lake Boats Marina
15296 Raney Dr
Clear Lake, IA 50428
641 357-0961

Click here for a Iowa Fishing License.

Camping facilities near Clear Lake provide anglers and outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to extend their fishing trips and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Campgrounds offer amenities such as RV hookups, tent sites, picnic areas, and walking trails, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for visitors.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Clear Lake State Park Campground - 641 357-4212

Twin Oaks Campground - 641 357-3337

Oakwood RV Park - 641 357-4019

McIntosh Woods State Park Campground - 641 829-3847

Clear Lake IA Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Contact Information

Clear Lake
Clear Lake State Park
6490 S Shore Ct
Clear Lake, IA 50428
641 357-4212

 

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