Fishing at Iowa, Minnesota
705-acre lake · Martin County · 3 species stocked
Stretching across 705 acres in Martin County, Iowa is a lake known to anglers throughout Minnesota for its consistent fishery for its target species. Whether you're casting from a kayak or running deeper structure from a boat, the data on this page will help you plan your next trip.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 4 stocking events on record for Iowa:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 71,091 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 50 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 366,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Yellow Perch | 4,318 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Northern Pike in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Iowa, the state-level guide ranks the top lakes by stocking volume — a good supplement to this page when planning a trip:
- Top Northern Pike lakes in Minnesota
- Top Walleye lakes in Minnesota
- Top Yellow Perch lakes in Minnesota
Best Time to Fish Iowa
For northern pike, the best fishing on Iowa is typically in spring and fall, when surface temperatures fall in the 55–70°F range. That window matches the active feeding period for the species and aligns with lake thermal turnover, putting fish in predictable depths and structure. Check the recent stocking dates above — fish are easiest to locate in the first two to four weeks after a planting.
Nearby Lakes
Other stocked waters within ~75 miles of Iowa:
- South Silver Lake — 0.7 mi (242 ac)
- South Silver — 0.7 mi (252 ac)
- North Silver Lake — 1.9 mi (202 ac)
- Willmert Lake — 3.3 mi (360 ac)
- Willmert (Main Bay) — 3.5 mi (335 ac)
- Clayton Lake — 5.2 mi (499 ac)
- Okamanpeedan Lake — 5.5 mi (2,195 ac)
- Okamanpeedan — 5.5 mi (2,268 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Iowa. Buy one online and check current regulations at the Minnesota DNR. Always confirm seasonal closures, size limits, and creel limits before fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fish are stocked in Iowa?
Iowa has been stocked with Northern Pike, Walleye, Yellow Perch.
When was Iowa last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2022, when 71,091 northern pike were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Iowa?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.