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BLUE LAKE

updated 10-01-03
Located 3 miles west of Onawa.

Campground, NO ELECTRICITY

Blue Lake is a 269 acre oxbow lake located west of Onawa, in Monona County. Typical of many oxbow lakes, this lake is plagued by a dense vegetation growth in the spring and early summer months. This aquatic vegetation provides excellent habitat for the lake's main fish species, the largemouth bass. Blue lake has gotten a well-deserved reputation as a premire largemouth bass fishery, especially by anglers that are targeting this species and know how to fish the weeds and weedline. As in all Iowa waters, unless otherwise posted, there is a 15 inch minimum length limit and a 3 fish daily bag limit on bass. Recent fish surveys revealed a large population of bass with different year classes well represented, with the largest fish pushing 5 pounds.

Bluegill in the lake average 7 to 9 inches. Catfish, crappie, and northern pike round out the other species present in Blue Lake.

A state owned campground is located on the west side of the lake, and there is a KOA campground on the east shore. Two double lane boat ramps are also available on the west shore.

For more information please contact the area fisheries manager.

Vital Stats

Area: 269 acres.
Shoreline:
Mean depth:
Maximum depth:
Drainage:
Lake type: Man-made recreational
Stratifies:
Boat access: 2 double-lane boat ramps.
Motor restrictions: None.
Special fishing regulations: None.
Contour map: Available from IA DNR.
Toilets: Yes.
Other facilities: Picnic tables, hiking trails,
swimming beach, and camping.

What to Fish For

Best for:
Bluegill Largemouth Bass

Other:
Channel Catfish Crappie
Pike

 

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