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Iowa => Ice Fishing Iowa => Topic started by: frostyicecold on Dec 24, 2007, 04:25 PM

Title: Big Creek
Post by: frostyicecold on Dec 24, 2007, 04:25 PM
Here are the coordinates for the fishing structure that was placed in Big Creek just recently. I found them on Iowa outdoors site. Ben Dodd ,the Fisheries Management Biologist, states that these coordinates should be shared with other fisherman and the DNR will soon have a public database with the info.
I hope these numbers help someone out. Here is the site to help with putting in the numbers. A lot of good information on getting your GPS to work.

http://www.iowaoutdoors.org/forum/viewtopic.php?showtopic=288606&mode=&show=10&page=4 (http://www.iowaoutdoors.org/forum/viewtopic.php?showtopic=288606&mode=&show=10&page=4)

Hello All,

My name is Ben Dodd, I am the fisheries management for the Iowa DNR. I have the coordinates for both Big Creek and Saylorville and I am posting them below. These projects were spear-headed by Central Iowa Anglers (CIA), a very good fishing club in central Iowa. They put forth a lot of time, labor and donations for these projects, so you can thank them for their hard work and contributions. The IDNR Parks and IDNR Fisheries collaborated with CIA on the Big Creek project. The Corps of Engineers and IDNR Fisheries collaborated with CIA on the Saylorville project. Our plan is to get these coordinates and all other habitat project coordinates into our Lake Management Database, which will be able to be utilized by the public. IDNR Fisheries hopes to get this up and running soon and get the word out to the public. These coordinates are public information, so feel free to share these points. After all, our goal was to improve fish habitat and attract fish for anglers.

Habitat Work 2007
Map Datum: WGS84 or NAD83 will work Set Unit to: UPS UTM

Lake Location Zone and Easting Northing Elevation (ft) Date
Big Creek Hab1 15 T 0438476 4628281 945 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab2 15 T 0438467 4628318 954 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab3 15 T 0438469 4628256 956 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab4 15 T 0438880 4627593 939 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab5 15 T 0439021 4628609 932 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab6 15 T 0438788 4627745 946 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab8 15 T 0439089 4627154 936 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab9 15 T 0438540 4628409 933 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab10 15 T 0438510 4628487 932 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab11 15 T 0438688 4629059 936 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab21 15 T 0438311 4629914 924 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab22 15 T 0438707 4628285 928 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab23 15 T 0439035 4628609 910 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab24 15 T 0438480 4628268 916 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab25 15 T 0439006 4628587 910 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab26 15 T 0439029 4627901 983 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab27 15 T 0438255 4628879 961 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab28 15 T 0438097 4629329 912 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab29 15 T 0438104 4629296 931 11/16/2007
Big Creek Hab30 15 T 0438274 4628876 949 11/16/2007
Saylorville Oak Grove1 15 T 0442080 4620838 NA 10/12/2007
Saylorville Cherry Glen Tree Line (Begin) 15 T 0442765 4619821 NA 10/12/2007
Saylorville Cherry Glen Tree Line (End) 15 T 0442860 4619820 NA 10/12/2007
Saylorville TR1 15 T 0442725 4619869 831 10/12/2007
Saylorville TR2 15 T 0442792 4619850 827 10/12/2007
Saylorville TR3 15 T 0442089 4620847 846 10/12/2007
Saylorville TR4 15 T 0442110 4620831 828 10/12/2007
Saylorville TR5 15 T 0442846 4619888 849 10/12/2007

Good luck fishing!

Ben Dodd
Iowa DNR
Fisheries Management Biologist








http://www.iowaoutdoors.org/forum/viewtopic.php?showtopic=288606&mode=&show=10&page=4
Title: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Dec 09, 2010, 04:40 AM
Any word on the ice thickness of Big creek? I had heard that lost lakes was a solid 4". This weekend shoud be a go with the way the temps are. Tight lines and slabs to all! Remember PICK UP YOUR TRASH YOU LAZY *****S!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: slick ice on Dec 09, 2010, 01:28 PM
Sunday it was still open water on the main lake. If we could get the wind to stop the ice will come on fast.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: drewgills on Dec 09, 2010, 05:05 PM
i went there yesterday the  main  lake  had 1 to 1/2 inch locked up from what i could ee but not safe lost was 4 1/2 at a cove didnt walk out much tward the channel but im guessing  by next week lost is good to go
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Ice_Ninja on Dec 10, 2010, 08:21 AM
when you are talking of lost lake, where is it at? just moved up to this area, and know where big creek is, but not for sure on lost! any help of info would be great. thanks
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: slick ice on Dec 10, 2010, 11:10 AM
lost lake is the top side of the spillway for big creek
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: bert29 on Dec 10, 2010, 12:38 PM
a shallow pond way at north end of big creek might be good this year. with the higher than normal water, it flooded that pond and should have put panfish in it. It's real shallow like 2-3ft deep over near south bank and sometimes you can do pretty well there--best to go early though cause it can freeze out. It also freezes fast and you can get on it usually before main lake areas. little creek roadbed area can be good early too. find the old bridge/creek channel area in about 15-16ft..fish on areas that start to come up out of channel--they dumped rock/brush there back in '95 when they lowered the lake. hit and miss though...don't be surprised if you catch a walleye and perch or two as well.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Dec 16, 2010, 08:28 AM
How much ice there on the main lake guys?  Is she froze up in the channel?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: spongybt on Dec 16, 2010, 12:16 PM
I was out last night, I started straight out from the west ramp and worked south to the first point and there was 4-6". Not sure about the middle that was open last week but there were guys out there.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Dec 17, 2010, 07:46 AM
I was out last night, I started straight out from the west ramp and worked south to the first point and there was 4-6". Not sure about the middle that was open last week but there were guys out there.

Thanks for the info.  Probably give it a try this weekend.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Dec 19, 2010, 08:34 AM
Me and a couple buddies hit the main lake on Friday. We ended up catching about 20 gills mostly in part to my boy Jruss. His new FL20 will do him wonders this year as well as my new FL18 will increase my catch. Love the bottom zoom. We kept roughly half of them, one measuring just over 9" a hawg it was. The others we kept were all 8+". There is 6' of good ice out there. We will be driving out soon which is good because all of our hot spots are no where near an access.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Russbone on Dec 19, 2010, 12:13 PM
Me and a couple buddies hit the main lake on Friday. We ended up catching about 20 gills mostly in part to my boy Jruss. His new FL20 will do him wonders this year as well as my new FL18 will increase my catch. Love the bottom zoom. We kept roughly half of them, one measuring just over 9" a hawg it was. The others we kept were all 8+". There is 6' of good ice out there. We will be driving out soon which is good because all of our hot spots are no where near an access.
 
   
Well the vex helped for sure, and that zoom is LEGIT! Can't wait till we start marking slab crappies. Man it felt good to get out again.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Dec 20, 2010, 12:25 PM
Nice having the FL-20 for the 12' zoom. Couldn't go with out mine anymore!  Anybody been on Big Creek yesterday or today?  Wondering on the ice in the channel?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Dec 21, 2010, 12:32 PM
Any report for big creek?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Dec 21, 2010, 02:15 PM
People are fishing the channeL. I haven't had a chance to go for the late crappie bite but I have heard it is slow.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Dec 22, 2010, 07:53 AM
Thanks Rawfish.  Hoping to get the permanent out there Sunday.  Hopefully.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 22, 2010, 08:16 AM
Has anyone done well on the walleyes in the last few years at big creek?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Dec 22, 2010, 12:01 PM
Small walleyes will drive you nuts with a minnow on the bottom in 30-36 fow in the channel.  You can catch a zillion of them.  Haven't seen too many nice ones come through the ice.  Seems better for walleye in open water.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Dec 22, 2010, 01:08 PM
Small walleyes will drive you nuts with a minnow on the bottom in 30-36 fow in the channel.  You can catch a zillion of them.  Haven't seen too many nice ones come through the ice.  Seems better for walleye in open water.

And.  Remember the local length limits there as well that are posted.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 22, 2010, 07:02 PM
That might explain the small walleye I caught on lost lake this year, fishing for gills and crappie.  It really got my hopes up that I was going to get into more of them, and that didn't happen.  How has everyone done on the crappie at lost lake/bigcreek?  I have not had a luck with them yet this winter.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Dec 23, 2010, 09:02 AM
Big Wally.  It's been a tough go on the crappie so far.  I was out last night and perforated 2 spots that we fish every year and only marked 2 fish!   ???   Probably drilled 60 holes and put the vex in all of them.  First time I've ever been skunked at BC.  Gonna look hard on Friday and hit the bluegill spots during the day and try the crappie spots in the channel at dark.  Hopefully find their movements by this weekend.  Good luck.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: icey kid on Dec 23, 2010, 03:39 PM
Hows the ice and is there any permanants out yet? Thanks
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Dec 27, 2010, 09:35 AM
The ice seems to stay the same if not getting a little worse.  Maybe 7" by shore and 6" in most spots elsewhere.  Snow did not help.  And warm weather coming is not good (45 degrees on the way).  So might not be a permy year at big creek this year.  Last year this week we had 20" already.  I don't see it happening this year on time or at all.  Good Luck!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: anderson_dc on Dec 27, 2010, 10:13 AM
I just checked my reports from last year on Big Creek and on the 29th the lake only had 8-9" of ice on the southern part (not Lost Lake) of the lake.  We are a little behind on ice formation this year but nothing to concern yourself with.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Russbone on Dec 27, 2010, 12:46 PM
Was out at big creek yesterday with a buddy and we were NAILING the gills, was hot right at that magical time about an hour or so before sunset. That was the easy part... now it was time to catch some crappie. We moved out deeper over the channel hoping to find some suspended fish, drilled about a dozen holes and located some activity. Fish were few and far between for a while but they started rolling through later on. Unfortunately they were pretty tight lipped, some seemed interested and would charge our lures but just wouldn't bite. We ended up catching 2 nice crappie at least. Couple spit the hook but that's the name of the game...  ;D :'(
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: therealjt on Dec 27, 2010, 04:56 PM
was out there yesterday and about 7" of ice is what we were finding, there were four wheelers out. Fish were not biting until after 330 or so, we caugt a few smalle eyes and some decent crappie
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Dec 27, 2010, 06:15 PM
Anyone have the waypoints for this lake? I've found them for free before but I can't find them for the life of me right now.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Dec 28, 2010, 09:16 AM
Saw a small truck out there yesterday ???  What a brave soul! :P.  Got a couple crappies.  Missed a few too.  I think they spit at the bait sometimes. lol.  small eyes are abundant.  Good luck catching one in the legal slot and if you do check for tags on the tail to claim a cash prize.  Look at the signs at the ramps for what to do.  Blue gills seem to be bighting ok during light, but good luck getting a crappie to bite before dark.  Sort of a slow start there yet this year.  Found about 8" of ice (definately not enough for a truck!!!!)
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Dec 28, 2010, 10:17 AM
How much snow is on the ice down there?  Are ATV's getting around fine or is there a chance they could get stuck. I'm up in NE Iowa so don't know what Des Moines area got for snow.  Thanks all. Good luck this year.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: old time jigger on Dec 28, 2010, 10:35 AM
Squ1rr31 I to looked all over h--- finally called DNR in Boone they e-mailed me a map with cord #515-432-2823 ext 107 or 108 good luck
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Dec 28, 2010, 02:22 PM
I was with Russbone the other night and it was a great gill bite. Unfortunatly I left my lantern in the Ensign parking lot. If you drive a red Chevy Avalance hopefullly you grabed it when you were done fishing. hopefully it will return to me before I buy another.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Dec 28, 2010, 06:42 PM
If not Rawfish come talk to me at Sports Authority, I'll hook you up.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: IceHaus on Dec 29, 2010, 10:43 AM
I was out there on the 26th and there was about 8" of ice on the East side of the lake and about 4-6" of snow. Hopefully tomorrow's warm weather and rain clean the snow off and we get some more good, clear ice. It is supposed to be back in the teens by Saturday.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: TRCrappie on Dec 30, 2010, 08:46 AM
That will be great if the warm weather gets all this snow off the lakes.  If you cant drive on them you can only hope for good pulling on the ice.  The older I get the more a four wheeler sounds good. 
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Dec 30, 2010, 02:07 PM
Squ When do you work and who do I ask for?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: icekicker on Jan 01, 2011, 08:52 PM
is this road bed that everyone speaks of on the north- northwest end of the lake where the existing road would have gone straight through?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: icekicker on Jan 01, 2011, 08:53 PM
also does anyone know what time polk city bait and tackle open on sun?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: old time jigger on Jan 01, 2011, 08:56 PM
it runs from one boat ramp to the other,don't know times
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Jan 03, 2011, 01:08 PM
Looked like a small village out there Sunday.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Bigwally on Jan 04, 2011, 03:28 PM
Does anyone know what the deal is with all the small walleyes?  Seems next to impossible to get a good sized one.  Was it recently restocked with them?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Jan 08, 2011, 09:50 AM
I've seen tons of small walleye there for a long time.  Don't know what the deal is with them.  I guess they are offering cash prizes now for fish in the legal slot. 

Been having good luck on the gills the hr before dark and crappies after dark.  Finding both suspended to at least im up off the bottom where those little cigars keep running.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: iafish on Jan 09, 2011, 11:04 PM
got out today caught a bunch of lil eyes, but what really is bugin me is gettin out there and seein all the beer cans and trash that people jus left on the ice. really guys what kind of sportsman are you to jus leave that crap on our lake, if ya dont want to take it home im the ol beat up f350 throw it in my bed and ill take care of it jus sucks to fill my bucket up with someones elses trash on my walk back in.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Jan 10, 2011, 05:43 AM
I agree iafish. Nothing pisses me off more than people that litter. what kind of sportsman are you to jus leave that **** on our lake you wrote. They are not. The fishing has been good out there lately but surprisingly I have yet to catch a walleye.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 10, 2011, 10:34 AM
got out today caught a bunch of lil eyes, but what really is bugin me is gettin out there and seein all the beer cans and trash that people jus left on the ice. really guys what kind of sportsman are you to jus leave that **** on our lake, if ya dont want to take it home im the ol beat up f350 throw it in my bed and ill take care of it jus sucks to fill my bucket up with someones elses trash on my walk back in.

It's sad that you have to make that offer but that is very noble of you. Thanks for babysitting the non-respective bunch. Good luck to you.  :)
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: IceHaus on Jan 10, 2011, 10:39 AM
Agreed. The last few times I was out, I picked up anything from empty flashlight boxes to 1lb propane tanks to paper coffee cups. Seriously guys. Just toss it in the sled/shanty and toss it in the trash when you get home.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Russbone on Jan 10, 2011, 02:23 PM
Went out today and saw a bunch of dink bluegills just thrown out in the parking lot. Losers
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: iafish on Jan 10, 2011, 05:38 PM
It's sad that you have to make that offer but that is very noble of you. Thanks for babysitting the non-respective bunch. Good luck to you.  :)
lol i wouldnt say noble. im broke and them cans can pay for my bait
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Big - D OBG on Jan 10, 2011, 08:42 PM
New onto the boards. Been fishing for awhile, but finally got some stuff of my own. Where are honey holes on BC?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: fishhead50 on Jan 10, 2011, 09:22 PM
For eyes, fish deep, 30ft-40ft, along the side of a dropoff, use a jiigging rapala, dusk. Bite is only about 2 hours active. Suspended fish are usaully crappies or whites.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Big - D OBG on Jan 11, 2011, 07:59 AM
Thanks for the tip. Im really not too familiar with the lake, where is the easiest access? Thanks for helping the Newbie out. BTW, I pick up all of my trash too, that stuff pisses me off.  :tipup:
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: brittlab on Jan 11, 2011, 12:49 PM
Thanks for the tip. Im really not too familiar with the lake, where is the easiest access? Thanks for helping the Newbie out. BTW, I pick up all of my trash too, that stuff pisses me off.  :tipup:

I usually get on at the west ramp since it's closest to the brush piles I like to hit
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Big - D OBG on Jan 12, 2011, 12:16 PM
I usually get on at the west ramp since it's closest to the brush piles I like to hit
Thanks will give it a go this weekend hopefully
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Jan 12, 2011, 02:56 PM
Bluegill bite still seems to be pretty good 1hr before dark or so.  Crappies in deep water seem to be fair.  Liking horizontal jigs best with waxies.  Lots that stare at it too.  Probably catch 1 out of 4-6 that look at it.  All after dark of course.  Just sitting on an area where the fish run at dark or later.  Would be nice to find where they sleep and sit on that spot too.

Saw a bunch of dink bluegills on the ice the other day while out next to a hut not far from where I go.  Hope those weren't the ones in the parking lot Russbone that you saw.  I will keep an eye on those guys.  Takes a real duche bag to catch, keep, bring in and then dump a bunch of fish.  They will probably do it again, and hopefully one of us will be watching.

Good luck to all.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Russbone on Jan 12, 2011, 08:15 PM
Saw a bunch of dink bluegills on the ice the other day while out next to a hut not far from where I go.  Hope those weren't the ones in the parking lot Russbone that you saw.  I will keep an eye on those guys.  Takes a real duche bag to catch, keep, bring in and then dump a bunch of fish.  They will probably do it again, and hopefully one of us will be watching.

Probably the same douches. Doesn't make sense.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Jan 14, 2011, 01:19 PM
Just wondering on this weeks success at big creek?  Anybody doing any good.  Haven't been there yet this week.  Been at hickory a few times instead.  Probably heading back down to big creek tonight so just wondering how things have been going this week there?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Jan 14, 2011, 01:47 PM
I was out Monday and the gill bite was slow suprisingly. I had a buddy go out that night for the crappie bite and he got 17. Thats all I got Jig. I am heading out tonight as well so we will see.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: walleyewinder23 on Jan 14, 2011, 02:43 PM
Litter is nasty. Losers. Anyway... :o

Who is all signed up for the tourney? I am! :)
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Jan 16, 2011, 02:44 PM
Lots of nice bluegills and a few crappies after dark.

Good luck.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: toothfish on Jan 17, 2011, 02:39 PM
I haven't got over there yet this year.
Trash .... unfortunately you'll have this on a lake that close to a city .
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH-MITS on Jan 17, 2011, 07:32 PM
(http://i54.tinypic.com/2mz0ha8.jpg)

Had a buddy send me this pic tonight - he's a Shanty newbie and may recognize the pic - I'll let him elaborate if he catches the pic and feels like sharing... said he caught a 10''r down there tonight! Kept 14 from 8" up... I'm sure this front didn't hurt. Regardless - nice little pile of gills - bravo my man!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Jan 18, 2011, 07:49 AM
Was down yesterday for quite a while.  Got way over 50 gills.  Lots of dinks and lots of sorting.  But kept about 15 really nice ones 9" or better, then moved back to the pearmy and got 4 crappie.  Still a little slow on the crappies, but sure a nice day out there.

Good Luck.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Crappie43 on Jan 18, 2011, 11:48 AM
Nice pic Jas! I may try to make it out today and do the same thing! sure was fun...
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: slick ice on Jan 18, 2011, 09:13 PM
Are people driving on the lake, ok what i want to know can i drive my 3/4 ton out there or do i have to use my snowmobile
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Jan 19, 2011, 08:38 AM
I've been out there twice in the last week in my 3/4 ton.  Saw a guy in a 3/4 with a plow on it. Where I'm at there is about 13" in most places at least.  So the decision is up to you.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: TRCrappie on Jan 19, 2011, 09:36 AM
have been driving also.  farther south than that.  Their is a article on the front page in the general area though where a truck went through on devils lake last week on 18 inches.  Not that I am going to quit driving but made me think alot more about it.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Crappie43 on Jan 19, 2011, 12:12 PM
Went out last night again and slammed the Giant gills again. Only cleaned 8, but caught well over 30 in 2 hours or so just before dark. thought about going a little deeper and trying to get some Crappies or Eyes but didnt have time.

Anyone having any luck with any species right now, if so where and how deep? I was in about 17 foot of water right over a brush pile on the west side of the lake, catching most fish in the 13-16 foot range. went out the last couple days and monday night right before dark i couldnt even bait 2 poles because by the time i would get my pole in the water i would have a fish! Gotta love that!

Good Fishing!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Yopy on Jan 19, 2011, 12:37 PM
Hi guys, I've never fished big creek but I go to school at iowa state. I'm looking at driving down to big creek sometime soon and trying it there. only thing is, I have no idea where to park or fish. I'm a panfish guy, any advice?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: drewgills on Jan 19, 2011, 01:39 PM
i usually park at the ensign shelter and fish 50 to 100yds out and look for stucture +fish lots of brush s
around there gills are fat this year prob worth the drive if you move to the channel after dark u will find crappies in 37 fow suspended  in the 20s bite has been soft recommend  ul spring bobboer the road beds the key attracter where the channel  and the road are closest prob the place i would explore for spots to find fish hope u slam them!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Jan 21, 2011, 08:21 AM
Went out last night. BURR!  Wind was howling.  Wanted to hit my gill spot, but after a couple breaths of that cold air decided to go to the permy instead.  Only got 3 bites, hooked them all and lost all 3 on the way up. >:(  Time to move the shack!!

Things seem a little different this year in the channel.  Was getting quite a few crappies early on out there, but now not seeing that many any more and the ones I do see only about 1 of 6 are going to come up a little and bite. ???  Going to do some checking on the other spots and make a move!!

Good Luck!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: toofuss on Jan 24, 2011, 08:34 AM
ok here it goes

Made it out sunday morning was on the ice at first light. Had one fish hooked got him bout half way to the hole and lost him. Was out from first light till around one and never hooked another fish. started out on the drop off @ ensign then worked my way south and east. Looked like they had a good turnout for the tourney but i was not involved. Bait might have been my problem as I marked quite a few but no takers. Only had my gulp minnows and minnow heads so that might have had something to do with my poor luck. Ice was exelent though and actually drove everywhere I went so that was a plus.

Anyone with some info on what I was doing wrong would be very much appreciated.

Tight lines everyone!!!!   :tipup:
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: anderson_dc on Jan 24, 2011, 08:41 AM
Big Creek Hardwater Open isnt until next Sunday.  Thanks for the report  :tipup:
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: TRCrappie on Jan 24, 2011, 08:53 AM
Have had alot more fish coming up and just looking at my bait like it has the plague also.  Have not caught near as many with bigger jigs like in the beginning of the season.  Went yesterday morning also and only caught 10.  Hopefully it is weather related but is about that time of year. I always make sure to try  horizontal, vertical, and color changing.  Sometimes a plain hook is all I use for something different, but when they come up and look like that it usually means they are shutting off for some reason, and you will be lucky to catch any of them.  Oh well, better than working.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH-MITS on Jan 24, 2011, 09:09 AM
Fished there Saturday night from 3:30 to 5:30 - caught 8 gills between 4 of us. Everything we caught had some decent size. 8" + or so. Marked a ton - fished 15' of water.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Jan 25, 2011, 07:59 AM
Fished last night from about 4:30 till 8:00.  Started early on the gill spot.  Only got 4.  3 dinks and 1 nice fat one.  Moved to the pearmy and got 4 crappies.  Vex lit up whole time.  Fish seemed to be very slow, stuck around quite a while but couldn't get them to move, or come up much.  Very light touch on bait once and gone.  I'd say only 1 out of 10 actually hit the bait.  Not very productive there yesterday.  Last Friday was on fire.  Starting to get frustrated with BC again!

Anybody having much luck there.  Looks like the shanty towns are moving around now?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Jan 25, 2011, 07:07 PM
Was out Monday morning scouting for the tourney. We did alright on the gills maybe 10-15 didnt fish for crappie. Mid-ice is always a little slower but you will still have those night when you just killem.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Jan 26, 2011, 09:02 AM
Anybody doing any good in the mornings?  I usually only fish evenings and thinking about trying it in the morning sometime.  My crappie spot last year only did well at night.  I'm guessing the gills will hit in the morning, but any info would be appriciated.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Jan 27, 2011, 11:17 AM
Have had alot more fish coming up and just looking at my bait like it has the plague also.  Have not caught near as many with bigger jigs like in the beginning of the season.  Went yesterday morning also and only caught 10.  Hopefully it is weather related but is about that time of year. I always make sure to try  horizontal, vertical, and color changing.  Sometimes a plain hook is all I use for something different, but when they come up and look like that it usually means they are shutting off for some reason, and you will be lucky to catch any of them.  Oh well, better than working.

Any better luck lately?  Going to give it a try tonight again.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: carcrazy on Jan 27, 2011, 05:59 PM
anyone have any tips on where to find fish on big creek going to fish the tournement with my son this weekend never been there before any help would be a great help thanks
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: drewgills on Jan 27, 2011, 07:42 PM
tip 1 pre fish the lake sat or fri  with this little thaw the water prob murk up a bit who knows what it will do to the bite tip 2 use spring bobbers the bit at bc has been real soft. im in the touney also so thats all i got ;D
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Jan 28, 2011, 10:49 AM
 :o Good crappie bite last night.  If you can stay up late enough!  Going to give it a shot again tonight after trying hickory for the day bite.  Might be kinda tough to catch some of those crappie durring the day yet for me though.

Good Luck to all in the tourney Sunday!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: c.r.rick on Jan 28, 2011, 10:42 PM
hey toofuss ill tell ya your problem you didnt have me as your guide lol sorry to here you lost your only bite bud.  ill have to school you on the spots there again lol
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Jan 29, 2011, 07:50 AM
Crappies have been much more aggressive last 2 nights.  Getting some nice ones now and even a little earlier, right at dark.  Switched baits and that seemed to help too.  Think it is that time of year where they are finally starting to look for a little more meat on the baits.  Going to look at the later gill spots too and relocate those pigs.

Good luck.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Jan 29, 2011, 03:17 PM
That is good to here the crappie are a little more active. I am going to need 5 slabs to do well in the tourney tomorrow so that is good news. Jig have you fished at all in the mornings?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Jan 30, 2011, 11:22 AM
Nope.  Just evenings.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: old time jigger on Jan 31, 2011, 05:42 PM
Nope.  Just evenings.
How deep of water are you fishing?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Feb 01, 2011, 07:39 AM
How deep of water are you fishing?

34 FOW.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Feb 03, 2011, 09:25 AM
Anybody been out last couple days?  just curious how bite is going?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Rehtnug185vx on Feb 04, 2011, 12:55 PM
yep.  the bite has been good all year long.  pretty much taking a bucket full of gills and craps home every time i go out this year.  good luck ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Rehtnug185vx on Feb 04, 2011, 12:57 PM
i look for the group of 4 to 5 shacks, and do my best to get set up right in the middle of them.  this seems to work best. :o
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: crappiiguy on Feb 04, 2011, 01:41 PM
I fished last nite.   Tough bite!!   2 crappies and a small walleye for 2 1/2hrs of fishing.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Feb 04, 2011, 03:06 PM
Ya know, am I the only one on here that thinks fishing BC is a total waste of time??? Why doesn't the DNR do something about this craphole and release some more toothy fish into it? This lake needs way more Northern and a lot stricter regs on length limits or a slot for Walleyes. Without that, this lake will just turn into a bigger piece of garbage than it already is.

Hmm.  They stocked Walleye in it last October.  I think there is a keep slot from 15" - 20" on walleye.  Correct me if I'm wrong.  Not sure on the Northerns.  I do know they tagged some walleye in the "legal" slot length that they are offering cash reward for a phone call, so I'm guessing they are trying to track growth on that (and previous) stockings.  On the other hand always seeing a lot of cigars there.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: crappiiguy on Feb 04, 2011, 03:24 PM
Ya know, am I the only one on here that thinks fishing BC is a total waste of time??? Why doesn't the DNR do something about this craphole and release some more toothy fish into it? This lake needs way more Northern and a lot stricter regs on length limits or a slot for Walleyes. Without that, this lake will just turn into a bigger piece of garbage than it already is.

Wow,  tell us how you really feel ;D    I usually do pretty good on Big creek but I target crappies.   I didn't expect great fishing last nite after the front we had go through,  but I had the itch to go.   As for the walleyes,  I wish the drn would stock more central Iowa lakes like they do big creek.  Walleyes are a put and take resource around here and Big creek gets alot of pressure.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: crappiiguy on Feb 04, 2011, 05:31 PM
You are right Jig, there is that 15-20 slot on BC. They do need to start stocking more walleye in other lakes around here. More northern too. Instead of dredging out a lake to get rid of a high shad population, why not add some northern to the lakes with those problems. Why practically kill off a lake just for one nusance fish? Our lakes are plenty big enough, deep enough, and have enough foreage for these toothy critters to be able to grow and not do damage to any other fish in there. Big Creek used to be an awesome fishery UNTIL they killed it off trying to get all the shad out. That was just dumb and BC will never be what it used to be. I'm glad guys are still fishing it, that leaves the other surrounding lakes open to explore. I'm sure there's plenty of nice fish still left in BC, but to sit out there for 2 and a half hours and catch 2 crappie and one small walleye? Yeah, that just sounds unadventerous to me. Here's a bold statement; I would rather fish Moffit Reservoir before I'd fish Big Crap!  :o


I enjoy being on the ice,  usually I catch fish..  Once in a while its not so good.  Thats fishing.   They did do some super stocking at big creek to try to control the shad.  They were also considering killing off big creek,  but they didnt have to do it... The shad winter killed.   Good luck at Moffit!!!   Post some pics of the walleyes and northerns you catch,   I love pics ;D
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: c.r.rick on Feb 04, 2011, 07:27 PM
hey bruiser there are musky in the lake and the problem with your thoughts is that pike and musky dont really go for shad its more cats and bass forage.  pike and musky prefer shiners and gills.  shad are really oily and pike just dont go for them much.  you can debate that with me all day but i grew up in minnesota and we fished for lots of pike and musky there and i could never get the pike to go for the shad i use to put out.  only used it cuz it was easy to get but suckers and shiners were the best so i dont think the toothy critters would cure the shad problems but i agree i'd like to see more lakes in the central part of the state stocked with more pike.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: TRCrappie on Feb 04, 2011, 08:25 PM
Would agree with the statement that they should stock other lakes around here.  Am all for it.  They don't seem to know where all the walleyes are going in big creek so they put more in.  Good thinking.  Why not try in some of the lakes like ahquabi, hickory grove, or any of the other lakes around here.  The fishing on Big Creek must be good though with all the people who fish their.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: c.r.rick on Feb 04, 2011, 09:12 PM
in the state of iowa the dnr will only stock lakes with walleyes is the lake is over 600 acres.  and i believe they think the walleyes they have stocked there are going over the spill way
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Russbone on Feb 05, 2011, 09:07 AM
Let me know when you find a better fishery than Big Creek in central Iowa Bruiser. Good luck at Moffit, maybe try Badger while you are down there and see how that goes.  ::)
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: drewgills on Feb 05, 2011, 12:51 PM
no prob here with bc you cant go there and expect  to set up on the same brush and do great.if you have a flasher move around and you will find fish
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Feb 05, 2011, 04:46 PM
I rule big creek! lol.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: icemelt on Feb 06, 2011, 01:49 PM
hey reht you fish your beer can piles lately? out on big creek?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Feb 07, 2011, 08:31 AM
didn't we ban this smacktard last year about this same time?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: 0U812 on Feb 07, 2011, 04:18 PM
didn't we ban this smacktard last year about this same time?
Yep sure did... :P
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: toothfish on Feb 08, 2011, 01:01 PM
B C can be challenging.... I have been told to bring my A game when ice fishing this lake. 
All those mouths to feed. Not sure a release slot (like IGL) wouldn't work better. 
Hope there isn't any shad showing up in Big Creek!!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Rehtnug185vx on Feb 10, 2011, 06:03 PM
hey there melt.  great to hear from you.  ya the fish have been bitting well out at the crap all year.  my freezer is getting pretty full.  yes some of the brush piles along with the homemade structures have been producing consistantly just like in the past.  dont be a stranger.  you picked up any new toys lately?  that bar i got for my homelite has been working great.   :) :) :) :)
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: dancinjig on Feb 14, 2011, 12:48 PM
Hello white bass and perch.  HMM interesting.  First ones of the year there for me.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Rehtnug185vx on Feb 17, 2011, 01:23 PM
Any news on the conditions of the ice?  Haven't been out since last Friday night.  Is there even any left?  ::) ::)
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Russbone on Feb 17, 2011, 07:58 PM
I plan to be there tomorrow night... I'm guessing there will still be some good ice. Gonna be a sloppy mess. I'll let you know how we do.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: snokyguy on Feb 18, 2011, 09:43 AM
Ice is thick. little hard to get on, but nearly 2 feet of thickness out there. the wind made it VERY rough to walk on, so wear spikes. 4wheelers are fine, but you'll wanna drive slow. watch out for other people's holes as they aren't freezing back up, put my leg through one last night. ouch.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: drewgills on Feb 18, 2011, 12:50 PM
was there wed  1 to midnight gill were fussy but at night crappie a bit more aggressive  still  thick but the edge will suffer badly  with wind be safe all
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Feb 20, 2011, 07:47 AM
If anyone is out on the lake today can you give me the ice conditions. I am thinking about going out tonight. Thanks
Title: Re: Big Creek (ice conditions)
Post by: tricohatch on Feb 21, 2011, 09:14 PM
Hi, I was out on the ice Saturday night the 19th and there was about a foot or more of ice in 35 FOW. It has started to crack around the edge a few feet out from shore though. With the temperatures dropping below freezing now we should be ok for a while longer! Tight Lines Always! Slack is Evil!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rjbreese on Feb 24, 2011, 08:33 AM
Went out with the ATV for the afternoon/eve bite on BC last night, suprised that shoreline was actually frozen and there was a good 12'' plus ice thickness..... caught my first white bass on BC, a 14 incher, also picked up a couple dink gills and managed to catch 2-13.5'' walleyes and a handful more of 10''-12''ers. All in all had a great time only second time on BC this season had to come up for which will probably be one of the last times out for me, from Knoxville area and ice conditions down here isnt very good for a fat boy like me, might be back sunday if we dont have a heat wave. Tight lines everyone!!!!!!!!! :o
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BigCreekClone on Feb 24, 2011, 11:17 AM
Went out with the ATV for the afternoon/eve bite on BC last night, suprised that shoreline was actually frozen and there was a good 12'' plus ice thickness..... caught my first white bass on BC, a 14 incher, also picked up a couple dink gills and managed to catch 2-13.5'' walleyes and a handful more of 10''-12''ers. All in all had a great time only second time on BC this season had to come up for which will probably be one of the last times out for me, from Knoxville area and ice conditions down here isnt very good for a fat boy like me, might be back sunday if we dont have a heat wave. Tight lines everyone!!!!!!!!! :o


Any hints as to where you were or what you were using?  I was out from about 5:00-7:15 just off of the Williams boat ramp but didn't have much luck.  Marked quite a few but that was about it. 
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rjbreese on Feb 24, 2011, 01:32 PM

Any hints as to where you were or what you were using?  I was out from about 5:00-7:15 just off of the Williams boat ramp but didn't have much luck.  Marked quite a few but that was about it. 
  jiggin a fiskas w/small minnow, on one then a minnow on a red hook on my dead stick rod......mostly caught them jiggin right off bottom in 24 FOW had to coax them up to the point where they would turn back to bottom then they would follow it up and seemed like when they followed it up i had to quit jiggin they wanted it still to hit it, heck i lost more reelin them up than i got through the hole, i was straight out North i believe of the East boat ramp off of the jetty out by the old road bed, i was the ATV with tracks, hope this helps, i hardly ever do any good on BC but i think it was just a lucky night????????
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rjbreese on Feb 24, 2011, 01:35 PM
What's the ice look like out there at Robert's Creek? You been over there to check that out? Was out there last Saturday and there was still about 10 inches of ice. Just not sure what it's going to look like this weekend. Thought about trying it out again.
I have not been over to Roberts Creek in a couple weeks, sorry cant be of more help, i never have much luck there either? this season caught alot of crappie there but none over 11''
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Feb 27, 2011, 06:46 AM
Heading out tonight. Was wondering how the bite was last night if anyone was out.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: tricohatch on Feb 27, 2011, 11:01 AM
I was out Thursday night until about 11. The bite was OK as usual from about 4pm on. Orange,red and chartreuse vertical glow jigs tipped with small minnows. Marked fish in about 35 FOW out from the Williams boat ramp I caught a few dinks (walleyes) and 7 crappies 9-10 inchers. I find when the bite slows, lower a rattling glow spoon down with a minnow head or tail on one of the hooks and jig it as it descends to the bottom. Watch your locator carefully and you will see the fish come in and come up off the bottom to check it out.  I might see you out there! Tight lines always. SLACK IS EVIL!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: icemelt on Mar 03, 2011, 05:30 PM
ice is still plenty thick!!!!!! i drove on it today with my 1 ton dually diesel with both tanks full  !!!!  hell it will be good till april it always is!! no need to check just drive on out there youll be fine! i always drive on 3 inches of ice!!!!!! :o
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: anderson_dc on Mar 03, 2011, 09:26 PM
ice is still plenty thick!!!!!! i drove on it today with my 1 ton dually diesel with both tanks full  !!!!  hell it will be good till april it always is!! no need to check just drive on out there youll be fine! i always drive on 3 inches of ice!!!!!! :o

What part of that is supposed to be funny? ???
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Mar 06, 2011, 08:22 AM
Ahhh, the mind of a meth-head. It can never be understood by anyone other than themselves. Get a life dude.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Rehtnug185vx on Mar 10, 2011, 08:55 PM
Put a fork in it.  The seasons over. ;D
Title: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Dec 10, 2011, 05:28 PM
Checked the creek yesterday and its about 50% ice. Sounds like we have a little warm weather on its way so that wont help things.
ITCHIN!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Dec 10, 2011, 05:52 PM
Did some fishing at big creek today.  It's 100% iced over after last night.  I was on the north end.  walked from the rock dam to about 500 to 1000yards south on the middle of the lake to where it opens  up into the main lake.  Fished in 8-10FOW.  only marked a couple...no bites.  Ice was 2-3 inches thick.  Fished a gravel pit too, it had 3 inches.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: drewgills on Dec 10, 2011, 09:50 PM
Uhh im not buyn that I drove by there on Thursday and the whole place except for a skim by the dam was open water . I didn't really go to the northern most part of the lake but... I doubt the ice is safe. Any place on big creek.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: tricohatch on Dec 10, 2011, 10:02 PM
I agree with you Drewgills it's probably wishfull thinking on his part! I drove by DMACC Pond when I was coming home from Sportsmans Warehouse today and there was open water on it! A couple of smaller ponds were iced over completely, but I don't know how thick it was.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Dec 11, 2011, 10:51 AM
haha.  You don't have to believe me.  Just trying to pass along info.   You could go out there for yourself?!  I bet all my holes are still there.  Anyways it was 100% iced over.   You guys need to get out there and see for yourself i guess.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Big - D OBG on Dec 12, 2011, 09:23 AM
I agree with you Drewgills it's probably wishfull thinking on his part! I drove by DMACC Pond when I was coming home from Sportsmans Warehouse today and there was open water on it! A couple of smaller ponds were iced over completely, but I don't know how thick it was.
Yea DMACC is still open water. I live 2 min from there so I check it daily
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Dec 13, 2011, 02:49 PM
I was out there Saturday to check the ice and over 1/2 the lake was open.  What little ice was there wasn't thick enough to stand on, let alone walk out on the lake 500 - 1000 yards as mentioned.

Not real sure what the point of a "fake report" is, but it helps me rule out who's posts to believe.

ok this is the second and last time I will defend my earlier post.   Todd, the lake was 100% frozen Saturday.  I can understand how you might have thought otherwise, because there was no wind the previous night, and the with temps at 5 degrees the new ice that froze the remaining center lake was clear as glass.  If you didn't look closely from shore you could mistake it.  Even driving over the dam you could mistake the very clear ice patches as open water when compared to the snow covered earlier ice, and from there you have a good vantage point.  And in response to me fishing there, I DID.  And did exactly as mentioned.  Holy crap I thought people would be happy for me.  All I want to do on this site is exchange info to get better at ice fishing, and possibly help someone else.  So hold your judgements unless you TRULY know what you speak of.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Dec 13, 2011, 03:25 PM
Good point with the picture. I even had my camera.   No hard feelings here either, but if i feel like I'm being called a liar I feel like i need to defend myself, for better or worse.    I couldn't just walk on at any spot i wanted to on the lake, but that didn't mean that it wasn't frozen in the center.  If you're in an area with warm groundwater inflow then yeah the ice is going to be sketchy near shore.  I bet you don't remember seeing any waves out there Saturday did you? 
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: bert29 on Dec 13, 2011, 03:29 PM
if he's fishing the area I think he is, then it's a distinct possibility it was froze.(not defending him-just saying it's possible and I know that lake quite well)..way up north end of big creek arm near the the silt dam...shallow and no moving water with creek so low--and that area since lake was created always froze earliest and was one of the first areas you could walk on.
actually, when I fished Big Creek when I was younger (I grew up in Madrid..I "lived" at that lake back in the 80's in my HS days) the area just a bit further south of where he may have been fishing used to be old gravel pits (5-7ft of water) and that WAS the spot to early icefish--besides Lost Lake. That area would be covered with fishermen at first ice, and we would catch big bluegills, crappies, even perch from those old flooded willow sticks. Still today, there is some good structure up there (not as many sticks as they have deteriorated over time) but the DNR put some rock piles and other brush up there when they drained the lake back in mid 90's...
anybody else remember fishing up there in that area back then?
might be worth some of you living close to Big Creek to try that area out again at early ice. The gravel and clay marl bottom used to hold larvae and such that the fish would come in and feed on.
I don't make it back to fish that area too much anymore, but at early ice definitely a place to try (even though it's a long walk) Maybe fish have started to use that area again for same reasons as they did several years ago.

I'm just bummed out here in SW Iowa that the warm temps and rain on the way will pretty much ruin any good ice we had in this area for some time now!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: drewgills on Dec 14, 2011, 09:01 AM
Not calling you a liar. Just don't think its safe to tell folk that your walking thousands of yds around a lake that's not all the way froze.everyone is itching to get out.but it wouldn't be cool for someone to fall through uneven ice. Lots of first timers out there is all. ;D
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: flyfishr on Dec 14, 2011, 09:10 AM
Jeez, this board is getting to be like the other boards.   ::)
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: tricohatch on Dec 15, 2011, 12:10 AM
Truth,honesty and compassion for your fellow human beings. We as ice anglers have lost 2 of our own family so far this early in the season! We don't need any more fatalities at all, and certainly not from any misleading posts about the conditions of the ice. Please everyone be safe out on the ice! Tight lines! ;D
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Dec 15, 2011, 06:31 PM
Play nice boys...
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Dec 24, 2011, 09:40 AM
hopefully we have Ice by the time of the bigcreek hardwater open. Can't wait. no third or fourth place this year.... it's first!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: drewgills on Dec 24, 2011, 11:03 AM
Bet everyone will be walking out if it even happens going to need some cold temps to even get it fishable.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Russbone on Dec 25, 2011, 02:06 PM
Might need a boat if the temps stay in the 40's... I am getting angry >:( >:( >:(. But then again if it does freeze later, the fish won't be as pressured by tourney time and there might be more of them to catch.  ;)
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Yopy on Jan 13, 2012, 11:35 AM
Any sign of ice lately?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Zugunruhe on Jan 13, 2012, 11:43 AM
Lots of open water still today, smaller open pockets as well.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Bigwally on Jan 13, 2012, 01:05 PM
I did some checking today.  There was two shacks at the west boat ramp.  they said they were on 4' but there was open water in places by them.  I didnt like the looks of it.  I went over to the east boat ramp and it looked better.  you can see open water out a ways by the middle.  I walked out to about 50 yards drilling holes on the way and I was getting 4" to maybe 5"  I am heading out the door right now to go fish off the east boat ramp.  I will do more more drill when I get back out there and have the power auger.  And again I didnt wonder too far from the boat ramp but from what I could see it looked like decent ice all around that area.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Bigwally on Jan 13, 2012, 02:16 PM
Im out right now and it's safer to say there's 3-4 with spots that might be 5.  It is really various
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cyclones30 on Jan 13, 2012, 03:23 PM
Thanks for the updates guys! Any pics of the ice and/or fish?  ;D
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: perch.eye on Jan 13, 2012, 07:47 PM
Bigwally- Did you have the red Eskimo out there?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Bigwally on Jan 13, 2012, 08:35 PM
Yes I did.  And the power auger.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Bigwally on Jan 13, 2012, 08:38 PM
Thanks for the updates guys! Any pics of the ice and/or fish?  ;D

I didn't take any pics.  I had a few bites but no takers.  But it was nice to get out there.  If anyone goes out use cation the ice really varies for spot to stop. 
Title: Big creek ice
Post by: Master79 on Jan 14, 2012, 10:17 PM
Heard people been fishin big creek.  Headin there tomorrow morning. Anybody heard anything biting out there. Just stoked about getting out, first time this year.
Title: Re: Big creek ice
Post by: kevt528 on Jan 15, 2012, 12:06 AM
I got out today late in the day caught a 13-14in walleye and another even smaller one.  Talked to a gut that said he had got a limit early. In the day then the bite shut off for him.
Title: Re: Big creek ice
Post by: jayfk on Jan 15, 2012, 03:07 AM
Which part of Big Creek is safe? How thick is the ice out there?
Title: Re: Big creek ice
Post by: Master79 on Jan 15, 2012, 03:46 PM
Was out at big creek today. There's 3-4 inches   Fished about 5 hours with one bite. First trip out felt great to break in all the toys again. I counted about 8-10 people fishing around me. Guy next to us caught a real nice wally
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: perch.eye on Jan 15, 2012, 07:22 PM
Really wet, and really slow off of the east ramp today!
Title: Re: Big creek ice
Post by: jayfk on Jan 16, 2012, 01:47 AM
Thanks for the info Master79.
Title: Re: Big creek ice
Post by: IceHaus on Jan 16, 2012, 08:41 AM
Has anyone checked out Lost Lake? I may head out after work and check.
Title: Re: Big creek ice
Post by: anderson_dc on Jan 16, 2012, 09:29 AM
Ice is more sketchy on Lost Lake.  I didn't check it personally, just second hand information.  Remember that there are springs there and 4" of ice with springs is not my idea of a good time.  Also heard that the edges were iffy (this was on Saturday, I believe).
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cyclones30 on Jan 16, 2012, 11:02 AM
Drove down to the top of the slide yesterday and it didn't look good at lost lake. Very sketchy looking ice and open at the edges.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Bigwally on Jan 17, 2012, 11:53 AM
I also checked lost lake last Friday and there was open water by the dam and open water along the edge of the shore. So I didn't even wast my time getting out of my car.  I went and fished the east boat ramp, and talked to a guy there that said that he was fishing lost lake and had on leg fall threw, and that didn't surprise me any. 
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: snokyguy on Jan 17, 2012, 04:24 PM
yesterday there was still open water from the springs in lost lake. with the snow, those only get harder to see. I'd stay away from there for now.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Master79 on Jan 17, 2012, 06:43 PM
Get lost under lost lake.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Jan 18, 2012, 06:50 AM
I was out Monday caught 20 gills kept 15. 3-4 in the 9'' but mostly 8''. Caught them all in an hour then it shut off.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Big - D OBG on Jan 18, 2012, 08:34 AM
Gotta be some good ice out there after last nights chill
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Bigwally on Jan 18, 2012, 06:20 PM
Yep, the ice should only be getting better.  I think Im going to hit Hickory Grove on Friday dan Big Creek on Sunday.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: CKennedy on Jan 18, 2012, 06:41 PM
Let me know about Hickory Grove.  I am debating between Ada Hayden, Hickory Grove and Big Creek.  Probably go out both Saturday and Sunday.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cyclones30 on Jan 18, 2012, 11:32 PM
I'll probably be out there at least a bit on Sat and/or Sunday. Not sure where yet but we'll see what the ice looks like. Did the main part from the marina down to the west ramps finally lock up? I know most of it was still open as of last week but this cold should help big time if it's locked up before tomorrow's wind/snow.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: IceHaus on Jan 19, 2012, 12:48 PM
Getting ready to head to to Big Creek in a couple of hours. Will update tonight or tomorrow on ice conditions. Planning on fishing North of the East boat ramp, about half way between the ramp and the beach.

What depth have you guys been catching them?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: whlfxr on Jan 19, 2012, 01:53 PM
I was on Big Creek this morning.  Off the east ramp.  And west.  3-5" of good ice under 3-5" of crap.  Only an hour or so finding the brush then headed to work
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 19, 2012, 06:33 PM
I'm just curious.  I'm not from around there, just curious where lost lake is?  I guess that's kind of an oxymoran.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: anderson_dc on Jan 19, 2012, 07:50 PM
Lost lake is the southwestern most part of Big Creek.  Lost lake is where the spillway for Big Creek is located and the spillway then dumps into Saylorville Lake.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 19, 2012, 10:49 PM
Lost lake is the southwestern most part of Big Creek.  Lost lake is where the spillway for Big Creek is located and the spillway then dumps into Saylorville Lake.

Ah. Thank you Anderson.  I have fished BC out of a boat but have never hard fished it. I hope to take my buddy down there sometime to see what we can yank out of there in winter. A beautiful lake, indeed.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Yopy on Jan 20, 2012, 11:26 AM
Im looking to go down to big creek this weekend and give it a try, what part of big creek is the most feasible to fish under the given ice/snow conditions?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Jan 20, 2012, 03:58 PM
Everywhere I walked on Big Creek on Thursday had 5-6 inches with some white ice on top, prettiest black ice I've ever seen!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Jan 20, 2012, 06:36 PM
anyone getting numbers of crappie yet?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cyclones30 on Jan 20, 2012, 08:24 PM
Everywhere I walked on Big Creek on Thursday had 5-6 inches with some white ice on top, prettiest black ice I've ever seen!

Good to hear!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Russbone on Jan 20, 2012, 09:06 PM
anyone getting numbers of crappie yet?
Probably tomorrow
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Master79 on Jan 21, 2012, 08:14 AM
Big creek is going to be as busy as a walmart on the first of the month this weekend.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Jan 21, 2012, 10:30 AM
Did find some nice size crappies fishing the east boat ramp bay after sunset.  Even got a nice 12 in white bass.  More lookers than takers but we were on them all evening until they shut off around 9:30pm for us.  Anyone know if white bass are good to eat?     I also walked out from ensign shelter and went toward the area with the last open water.  Got out to near the middle of the lake, and every hole i made had 4.5in of black ice.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: CKennedy on Jan 21, 2012, 06:08 PM
White bass are good to eat if you clean all the red meat off of them.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Big - D OBG on Jan 21, 2012, 06:16 PM
Headed out there tomorrow. First time out on BC so Im hoping for some luck. Ill be in the Clam Junior, stop by
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 21, 2012, 09:27 PM
White bass are good to eat if you clean all the red meat off of them.

Are they pretty much equiv to yellow bass?  IMO, yellow bass are only the slightest notch below a crappie which is still darn good.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Jan 21, 2012, 10:09 PM
The fillets looked alot like yellows, except bigger.
 
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Jan 22, 2012, 02:36 PM
Was out last night and it was really slow. Out of three of we caught 6 crappie and one gill. We were in the channel with lots of lookers just an extremely soft bite.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: tricohatch on Jan 22, 2012, 11:30 PM
Went out Sat. about noon and there was a dozen or so shacks out then. By 5pm there was probably close to 30+ when my friend showed up to fish with me! It was great to finally get to walk out on some safe ice and fish! Was kind of windy though, (20mph) we made the best of it and ended up with catching 8- 10" gills, 6- 9" crappies and releasing quite a few cigar sized walleyes. 7+ inches of  good black ice, be sure to wear your cleats!!!  :icefish:
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: IowaHardWater on Jan 27, 2012, 12:13 PM
Heading out to Big Creek tonight and potentially tomrrow.  I was skunked on my first trip there on the ice here just last weekend.  Are people having better luck in the channel or in coves?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: IowaIce on Jan 27, 2012, 08:33 PM
The night bite has been tough, at least for me.  Been marking them but they don't want to commit.  I could use some help here also.  The Gill bite was strong all afternoon.  Was in 20 fow over brush.  Best advice is to stay on the move.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Jan 29, 2012, 10:20 AM
Yeah I will agree on the night bite being extremely slow. We were out Sat. night and it was crap! Traveled 4 times across the lake  just to catch 3 crappie. Anyone having morning luck with the crappie?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Bigwally on Jan 29, 2012, 10:39 AM
I fished the east boat ramp yesterday afternoon, and it was slow for me also.   I got one crappie, missed two when I was messing around with sfuff in my shack and look down and my bobber was under.  Lost another one at the bottom of the hole.  It was just a bad day for me..lol.   :-\
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Jan 31, 2012, 07:29 PM
Can I get an ice report for big creek. I was out saturday and there was a solid 7'' Just dont know what these last two days have done to it.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Jan 31, 2012, 07:51 PM
The best I can do for you is tell you I saw two people fishing out in the middle of the lake (south side) around 4pm today.  I'm going to try it tomorrow and I'll add more then.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Russbone on Jan 31, 2012, 09:25 PM
Keep those ice picks handy...
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: drewgills on Jan 31, 2012, 09:46 PM
We should be fine raw .ill get minnows .I picked up bob after work and he is ready to fish too.his red hair has gottn pretty long.bring some tunes you know he likes to rock out. ::)
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Bigwally on Feb 03, 2012, 11:47 AM
Anyone been by the lake?  I would guess the ice is in bad shape.  Im going to stay off all ice this weekend.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Feb 05, 2012, 12:52 PM
I was out last wed. And the ice was 5'' but pretty scetchy. This weeks lower temps should solidify the ice again. I plan on getting out this weekend.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Feb 05, 2012, 07:23 PM
I was out friday morning on the southeast arm and there was still 6 inches of so so ice.  Went down saturday at 3 and the snow was really coming down.  There was 6 inches of wet snow and it was really weighing the ice down.  Found some holes i had made 5 days prior and the water was gushing up out of them.   More scary was the non man made holes i found shooting up water.  I'm going to wait till next wednesday or thursday if the forecast is accurate.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Bigwally on Feb 06, 2012, 07:26 AM
I would really like to get out there this weekend but I'm just a little nervous about the ice.  Seems like there would be a good amount of crappy ice on top of a little bit of good ice, just adding more weight to it.  And like FISH_IQ said the open holes, when those freeze back up they wont be as thick as the rest of the thinker ice.  I'll wait and see this weekend.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: UncleBlazer on Feb 09, 2012, 08:50 AM
This cold(er) weather magically produce 6in of perfect black ice?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Feb 09, 2012, 11:36 AM
Don't know yet Blazer.  I'm going to check some spots later this afternoon and I'll let you know what I find.   I'm not 100% confident, but I'm hoping for 7 to 8 inches of pretty good looking ice.  If not today then by saturday or sunday.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Feb 09, 2012, 11:43 AM
Just curious if anyone has ever fished to the west of the rock jetty that is on the north side of the fishing pier bay?  I noticed that it looks like there is a transition between sand and gravel/mud there.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: bert29 on Feb 09, 2012, 12:49 PM
are you talking right near that long jetty across from the williams bay boatramp? If so, when lake was originally flooded back in early 70's, there was--still is for most part--an old gravel pit located just north of that jetty--and where jetty was built, to the left of it as it goes back to the east into that bay, was also part of the old pits...that area was a lot of sand near shore, and then it drops off fairly fast into basin--which of course would be muck. A good area to try at late ice--provided ice is thick enough--is over in the Little creek arm (near that boat ramp)..we used to catch a lot of nice crappies at late ice in Feb where that roadbed/old bridge was in that arm of the lake--even a few nice walleyes and the occasional perch. There are some nice rock piles located where road drops toward old creek channel (about 13-14ft deep) on both sides of the road bed--and some old original structure of the old bridge pilings/railings still left on the bottom from the 70's. You have to line up with road to the north (which is to the right of the current boat ramp) and then walk out. It's closer to the north shore than the boat ramp side.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: UncleBlazer on Feb 09, 2012, 01:13 PM
Don't know yet Blazer.  I'm going to check some spots later this afternoon and I'll let you know what I find.   I'm not 100% confident, but I'm hoping for 7 to 8 inches of pretty good looking ice.  If not today then by saturday or sunday.


great.  let me know.  a few of us guys might head over that direction this weekend if the ice is looking good.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: toofuss on Feb 09, 2012, 02:58 PM
Sitting just off the jetty south of the Williamsrramp on about 6 in of ice but there is a ton of open water up twoard the marina
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Feb 09, 2012, 07:19 PM
6 or less near shore, and 7 to 8 everywhere else.  stay away from the area west of the marina as it could ice over during the next few days but wouldn't be good for fishing.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Bigwally on Feb 10, 2012, 06:50 AM
Thanks for the update.  I think I'm going to give it a try this weekend.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BassyThumb on Feb 13, 2012, 10:33 AM
7-8'' Last night.  Caught a few small crappie right at nightfall.  Marking all kinds of suspended fish @ 25ft in 30ft of water.  Bite was VERY slow.  Just glad to get back out there! ;D
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Feb 13, 2012, 11:11 AM
Caught my first keeper walleye from the creek in more than two years yesterday.  Man was that fun after hooking countless cigars.  Also iced a 22 inch 4-5 lb catfish.  Its head was the exact same size as my 6 inch hole! ;D
Title: Should I go?
Post by: walleyewinder23 on Feb 13, 2012, 02:07 PM
I am debating about going to Big Creek or not. Is it worth it right now? Is the ice decent?
Just curious. I might head out there today
Title: Re: Should I go?
Post by: BassyThumb on Feb 13, 2012, 02:25 PM
Ice is decent.. bite was slow for me, but heard better for others.  Go give it a try!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: perch.eye on Feb 13, 2012, 10:58 PM
Congrats!! That's a much higher success rate than me, as far as keepers go.  Cigars seem to be abundant year after year after year.  I just don't get it...  How deep were you fishing?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Feb 14, 2012, 07:21 AM
I was fishing 19 to 26 ft.  just south of the open water on Saturday around one of the many brush piles.  I think i was about 75 yards off the open spot on 4 to 5 inches of ice.  I went out there sunday after the snow to see if i could mark my spot and check the ice and what i found was not good.  I got to with in about 100 to 150 yards of the open water and drilled a test hole and found only 3 inches of ice.  Some how we lost and inch and a half of ice in that area overnight while every other spot continues to build ice.  Does anyone know what the deal is with that giant open spot.  I've only fished here this year and last, and last was COLD so it was all iced over.  Does that area have thinner ice even during normal years?  Is there some type of crazy current from the meeting of the two large arms of the lake?  I just don't get it.  It hasn't been above freezing for like 10 days now and it keeps increasing in size! Sucks as that's where i catch my best  fish.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: anderson_dc on Feb 14, 2012, 07:51 AM
The wind is keeping it open and creating current which is eating away the ice.  That area is generally one of the last to freeze and one of the first to open up so be careful.

For safety purposes, I wouldn't go north of the shelter houses right now as the ice isn't nearly as good up there as it is further to the south.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Feb 14, 2012, 11:25 AM
Wind surely has its role, but there was hardly any wind during mondays snow to create current to take away ice.  Plus the wind was out of the south. 
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: anderson_dc on Feb 14, 2012, 12:20 PM
There was a ton of wind on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Feb 14, 2012, 12:47 PM
Light wind sunday at the creek, i didn't even anchor my hub shack, and by sunset it was totally calm... and so was monday.  but inbetween we lost an inch and a half.   
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: anderson_dc on Feb 14, 2012, 01:01 PM
Must have been "magic" then ???
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Feb 14, 2012, 05:19 PM
Maybe...could also be 6 inches of snow that melted, or the contour of the lake bottom....
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: anderson_dc on Feb 14, 2012, 05:40 PM
Nah, I'm still going with magic.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: fishwater45 on Feb 14, 2012, 10:17 PM
what type of baits are the cigars and wallys hittn and minnows, heads or waxies?  Thanks in advance just lookn for some action.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BassyThumb on Feb 15, 2012, 08:50 AM
Anyone out there recently?? How is it looking?  Hoping the ice holds up till the weekend.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BojiHawk on Feb 15, 2012, 03:11 PM
Nah, I'm still going with magic.

HEHEHEHEHE......classi c.  reminds me of Saturday at the hotel bar:

wife:  "man...that guy filled my wine glass a lot more full that yours when I was there earlier"
me:  "Thinks it's because you are a chick with blue eyes, 5'7", 120 pounds and good looking?"
wife:  "well...there wasn't very many people when I was there earlier either"
me:  "yeah...I'm sure that's it"  (roll eyes)
Title: Big Creek Ice
Post by: walleyewinder23 on Feb 25, 2012, 12:28 PM
How is it looking? MAYBE I will go today if it is okay.  ??? ???
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Feb 26, 2012, 11:00 AM
I was out yesterday from 12 to 5 pm.  Ice was solid in the morning, but was crap by the time i left.  6 to 7 inches but would chunk off by the inches when cutting.  There are lots of thinner spots around wet cracks, and obvious open water. It wasn't nearly as cold last night so i imagine it's worse today
   
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Feb 26, 2012, 11:10 AM
I am curious how this years bluegill harvest stacked up to last years at Big Creek.  Personally  I didn't notice a difference in numbers, but on average the fish I caught were about an inch smaller than last year.  Didn't get  many hogs this year either.  I was finding 11+ bluegill last year, and this year I didn't find one over 10 and very few over 9.   With the poor ice I wasn't able to get to all the spots i like so maybe that had something to do with it.
Probably kept around 50 to 75  for the season.  Too many??   Opinions??
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: anderson_dc on Feb 27, 2012, 07:41 AM
Wow, an 11" bluegill on public waters (especially one which gets as much pressure as Big Creek) is quite a feat.  Don't suppose you have pics of that bad boy(s)?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Feb 27, 2012, 10:58 AM
Nope no pics. I'd call it beginners luck, but I happened upon a spot where I was catching big bluegill  for a month straight last season, but it was open water nearly all season this year.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Feb 28, 2012, 07:15 PM
WOW 11'' huh. The biggest I have seen come out of that lake was 9 1/2'' and I thought that was a hog. The gill bite was steady all season it was even nice to get to sight fish them for a week or two when the water was clear, what I wonder is how everyone did on the crappie. I didn't do s--t this year. some of the best spots had little or no ice late in the season when the crappie really turn on.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Jan 01, 2013, 10:50 AM
I was out yesterday morning the fishing was terrible. Wondering if it was the cold front. Anyone else have any luck?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: ripNlips83 on Jan 01, 2013, 03:18 PM
Ponds have been slow for me since sunday
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Big - D OBG on Jan 02, 2013, 11:22 AM
How thick was the ice?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cyclones30 on Jan 02, 2013, 12:28 PM
How thick was the ice?

We were sitting on a very loud 5-7" yesterday on W side and had a four wheeler and snowmobile go past at various times.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Big - D OBG on Jan 02, 2013, 12:59 PM
Good to know, hope to make it out later this week or Saturday
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Jan 13, 2013, 07:55 AM
Well how has the crappie bite been for everyone? I have only fished here once this year so far but now its time to start honing the skills on the creek. Big tourney going down in two weeks! Go team Ice Addicts!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BassyThumb on Jan 13, 2013, 10:13 AM
Bite has been really slow.  Caught 4 last night in about a hour and a half out in the channel.  One really nice, others 8-9''  Caught a couple 7'' gills as well.  Took my g/f for her first time on the ice..  she had fun, caught some fish!  =)

Got any info on this tourney?? 
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: ramdriver on Jan 13, 2013, 03:52 PM
Tourney????*???
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Jan 13, 2013, 04:14 PM
If this tournaments for a profit please see the rules before you post it...
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Jan 14, 2013, 02:17 PM
Recycled fish? I don't think that is a for profit tournament but I could be wrong.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Jan 14, 2013, 02:25 PM
Bass thumb that is fun when the ladies get some action. I took my two year old the other day and he was able to catch 4 nice gills right off the bat. Pretty Proud!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Jan 14, 2013, 07:05 PM
Waiting to hear from Ben this year, hasn't gotten a hold of me yet.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cgrochbps on Jan 15, 2013, 08:40 PM
I have 3 hours tomorrow to kill.  Going out to Big Creek, and wondering if anything is going on out there?

Thanks.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 18, 2013, 12:15 PM
What's been happening on BC? How much ice now? Thanks.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BassyThumb on Jan 18, 2013, 01:26 PM
Just home from BC.  Ice is still 10" easy on the main lake, channel area.  A lot of slushy mess on top currently.  We left due to the wind blowing as around.  No fun.  The bite was pretty slow.  Got into a few decent gills and a couple small crappie.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cowboytrevor21 on Jan 18, 2013, 01:28 PM
You found them all lol. I had fun it was nice to be out
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BassyThumb on Jan 18, 2013, 01:31 PM
You found them all lol. I had fun it was nice to be out

Hey, at least you didn't get skunked!   ;)
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cowboytrevor21 on Jan 18, 2013, 02:58 PM
My vex got sent to the ups pick up. So he's got to go pick it up today
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Jan 19, 2013, 10:55 AM
We were out last night and the fish were supper aggressive. We caught 9'' gills all night and probably 12-15 crappie. Most were in the 8-10'' range with one at 11 1/4''. Lots of water on top but still 7'' good clear ice and it was refreezing when we left around 9:30.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cowboytrevor21 on Jan 19, 2013, 02:26 PM
How long were you out there raw fish
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cyclones30 on Jan 19, 2013, 06:35 PM
Might try to head here tomorrow (Sunday) but going alone and with some potentially iffy ice we'll see. If anyone is looking for a buddy in the area let me know!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cowboytrevor21 on Jan 19, 2013, 07:20 PM
I'm going to try to head out first thing in the morning was just wodering how the shoreline was holding up to the run off but ill still try tommorow I guess well need a rope
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cowboytrevor21 on Jan 19, 2013, 07:23 PM
Ill probably be in my black frabill ice explorer and anyone is more than welcome to come by and talk
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Jan 21, 2013, 03:53 PM
Cowboy I fished from about 3pm to 9:30. The ice is plenty thick and the shore lines are froze. Be careful around Ensign that was the last open water I had seen but I'm sure its fine by now.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cowboytrevor21 on Feb 01, 2013, 04:14 AM
Wonder if these are still around. Makes me wonder
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: thermal on Feb 01, 2013, 06:21 AM
Be questionable if 2008 flood had anything to do w either lake but worth checking out on days your on the ice
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cowboytrevor21 on Feb 01, 2013, 07:18 AM
Dnr shows some on one of there maps from last year but the coordinates werent working for me. So who knows
Title: Big creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Feb 05, 2013, 10:26 PM
How's ice up there was planning on fishing it on Friday any help would be great Thanks
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cyclones30 on Feb 06, 2013, 07:23 AM
Last I heard (take that for what it's worth) was some open water in front of Ensign shelter on E side and getting towards channel and also a lot of open water in the north end in NW arm. Be careful as always and you should be fine.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Feb 06, 2013, 12:33 PM
Thanks for the help . Hopefully it's good and the fishing is good also.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: toofuss on Feb 06, 2013, 03:32 PM
I was out Monday. fished off the Williams ramp. ice was about 8 inches but up north of the marina was open water. also be careful around ensign as there is a spring or something keeping water open. guessing low water is making it show up where it hadn't in years past.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: redshackdistrict on Feb 07, 2013, 01:22 PM
Anyone been out this week? Want to get out one last time without having to worry about going through. Not sure how much of a toll this rain we have been getting has taken but i haven't been down that way since the beginning of January. Bite was pretty slow then, hoping it has picked up since then. Any info is good... Thanks
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: ASATMillerbluegill on Feb 08, 2013, 06:18 AM
Yea, how's the ice yesterday?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: redshackdistrict on Feb 10, 2013, 10:13 AM
Made it out Friday. Just nailed the gills. It was one after another for a while there. Ice was still solid 7 8 inches. Hope it holds
 up with train today
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cyclones30 on Feb 10, 2013, 03:38 PM
Went out for a little while today. Still a lot of open water on E side, got on at Williams and there were a few people to the south and some right in front of the ramp. Not many people, lots of water on top and you can tell the lower/higher ice chunks by how much water was on top or pooling. Didn't look the best from the ramp but once on the ice it was still as thick as it's been for a while. (posted above) Saw a few holes where water was flowing down into them from the surrounding areas. Guess that'll help get the water off the ice...
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: ASATMillerbluegill on Feb 12, 2013, 07:48 AM
Went out from williams drive on the west side last night, to try the night bite. We were setup on brush, marked fish, but could get no takers. Lots of open water 1/3 of the lake east of us. We had open water in several areas around us, just 80 yds from the west boat ramp, and there is some open water near the ramp. We both had current under us that was taking our lures away from the hole, and my slip bobbers were pulling under due to the current. The ice is really going fast there; we were just there last friday, and lots of ice changes since then.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BigRock947 on Feb 12, 2013, 10:17 AM
Went out from williams drive on the west side last night, to try the night bite. We were setup on brush, marked fish, but could get no takers. Lots of open water 1/3 of the lake east of us. We had open water in several areas around us, just 80 yds from the west boat ramp, and there is some open water near the ramp. We both had current under us that was taking our lures away from the hole, and my slip bobbers were pulling under due to the current. The ice is really going fast there; we were just there last friday, and lots of ice changes since then.

I hope the ice holds...I want to get out there this weekend.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: anderson_dc on Feb 12, 2013, 01:31 PM
Went out from williams drive on the west side last night, to try the night bite. We were setup on brush, marked fish, but could get no takers. Lots of open water 1/3 of the lake east of us. We had open water in several areas around us, just 80 yds from the west boat ramp, and there is some open water near the ramp. We both had current under us that was taking our lures away from the hole, and my slip bobbers were pulling under due to the current. The ice is really going fast there; we were just there last friday, and lots of ice changes since then.
Did you measure the ice to see how thick it was?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: ASATMillerbluegill on Feb 12, 2013, 02:39 PM
Did you measure the ice to see how thick it was?
Yes, last night, the ice was variable. We drilled a hole on several occasions, and noticed one side of the hole was noticeably thinner on one side of the hole, over the other. Example, drill a hole and the ice depth on one side might only be 4" thick, and the other side 6-8". Some spots, the ice was only 3-4" thick, and 5 ft away it was 6-8" The winds and rain def have the big creek ice leaving rapidly. Lots of open water areas, and there was open water at the ramp.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Feb 12, 2013, 04:08 PM
ASAT I'm planning on going to big creek on Sunday how's fishing and ice conditions? Maybe we could meet up there if ice is good just PM me and Thanks
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: ASATMillerbluegill on Feb 12, 2013, 04:14 PM
I think the ice is going to be history at big creek in two days; we couldt believe how much the ice had deteriorated last night, since we were there last Friday. I think we're leaning towards brushy again this weekend. It is far enough north, that the ice is holding up well. Brushy sound ok for u? Any other ideas?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Feb 12, 2013, 04:24 PM
One of my friends from desmoines is fishing big creek tomorrow he's been doing well on gills nice crappies and a few walleyes so I will have better idea by tomorrow night but I'm going somewhere north on Sunday
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Feb 12, 2013, 04:25 PM
I will warn him about the irregular ice there so he will be careful tomorrow THanks ASAT
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BigRock947 on Feb 12, 2013, 04:29 PM
Crossing my fingers that the cold will help....I was planning to go to Big Creek on Sunday. Looks like I might head to Brushy for the first time...

Jumbo....keep us posted.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Feb 12, 2013, 04:34 PM
Is brushy a good bite I heard it was slow? But if I can talk the other guys to go to brushy we all might be able to search out some active fish as a team
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: ASATMillerbluegill on Feb 12, 2013, 04:39 PM
Fishing at brushy was slow for me and a buddy Saturday afternoon. We were fishing our usual 23-24 ft if water that we had done good earlier in the week in. My buddy went back out Sunday and decided to try 40' of water, and caught 15 10-12" crappies in an hr. he's guiding me to this spot Friday afternoon, if we can both get out.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: ASATMillerbluegill on Feb 12, 2013, 04:45 PM
Here's a pic someone posted on another forum today showing big creek today. This is what big creek looked like last night when we pulled into the williams boat ramp.


(http://i49.tinypic.com/4k9tth.jpg)
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cyclones30 on Feb 12, 2013, 05:07 PM
Dang, that sucks. Sunday it was still very good in the spots we tried. Might be done there it looks....
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: toofuss on Feb 13, 2013, 12:35 PM
Brushy had a 10 foot open hole just off the north ramp Tuesday morning. Talked to Mike at duncombe and decieded to head on up to clear.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Feb 13, 2013, 07:08 PM
A guy I fish with from desmoines fished off Williams boat ramp said today ice was ok and they did well on walleyes and wiper and afew catfish
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Feb 15, 2013, 07:02 PM
Any reports on Williams ramp tonight . How's ice . I'm going to try it at 8-9am tomorrow  ;D
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: w@lleye_rookie on Feb 15, 2013, 08:19 PM
Brushy had a 10 foot open hole just off the north ramp Tuesday morning. Talked to Mike at duncombe and decieded to head on up to clear.
Really?!! Someone should check below the hole to see if there is a vehicle down there! I was there on Friday the 8th and there were several pickups driving on the ice.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Feb 16, 2013, 10:14 PM
Got off of big creek tonight about 7pm crappies started biting a little better around dark caught a few but still the slowest fishing day I have had this season and ice was loud all day and thickness was crazy 3" -7.5" the white colored ice was thinnest . If anyone goes tomorrow you should get off by noon and stay on the clear ice only with caution !! BE CAREFUL GUYS !!!!!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: DirkDitchPickle on Feb 18, 2013, 10:43 PM
Stopped out tonight to look at the lake ice.  Looks crappy.  I wouldn't go out on it.  About a third of the lake is open.  There are open holes sporadically throughout the remaining ice.  Open water next to shore and a couple wide open cracks.
 Hard to think that two weeks ago people were driving their trucks on it.  My wife always gave me funny looks when I went ice fishing because I went quite often.  Now she knows why.  One positive thing was we had more ice than last year.  Good thing I have other hobbies. Maybe the snowmobile will get use later this week. Come on snow!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BassyThumb on Feb 21, 2013, 05:55 PM
She capped back over completely on Tuesday night.. I couldn't believe it as I was just out to take a look on Monday and it was very open!  We ventured out off of Williams Dr. boat ramp on Wednesday.  Ice was a very consistent 6'' straight out from the ramp to the channel.  The water has turned into chocolate milk with all that open water and wind.  I could see my jig in 18' two weeks ago, but only maybe 6'' yesterday.  Managed a few small crappie on spikes and horizontal jigs, but we were only there for less then a hour.  Marked a lot of fish though!  If any of ya decide to go out, be very careful with this new snow as everything will be pretty covered I'm sure!  Tight lines!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BigRock947 on Feb 22, 2013, 02:47 PM
Anybody going to Big Creek on Saturday?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cyclones30 on Feb 22, 2013, 04:17 PM
I'd like to, but with the snow sitting on top (if it is) I'd probably want to be wearing my life jacket, picks, etc the entire time. Might decide to travel north somewhere if we do go this weekend...
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Feb 22, 2013, 09:57 PM
Might be up there Sunday but checking some local ice first
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BigRock947 on Feb 22, 2013, 10:46 PM
I'd like to, but with the snow sitting on top (if it is) I'd probably want to be wearing my life jacket, picks, etc the entire time. Might decide to travel north somewhere if we do go this weekend...

Picks, Arctic Armor and Spud Bar all coming along...I found 10 to 12" towards the South end of the lake last Sunday.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Feb 22, 2013, 11:54 PM
You going on Saturday . Let me no how ice is
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BigRock947 on Feb 23, 2013, 07:33 AM
You going on Saturday . Let me no how ice is

I sure am...it looks like a beautiful day to be out fishing.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cyclones30 on Feb 23, 2013, 08:56 AM
I'm thinking about going today or tomorrow, I'd like to start at the Williams ramp but I know the open water/iffy ice wasn't far from there last weekend. Might wait until tomorrow and let others make the first tracks, time to get the skis out today!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BigRock947 on Feb 23, 2013, 05:19 PM
A few guys were set up off of Williams Boat Ramp today. I stayed South of there. Lots of lookers...only caught 1 Catfish in the main channel.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cyclones30 on Feb 23, 2013, 06:05 PM
Thanks for the report BigRock. I was hoping to make it down there today to take a look but we ran out of daylight. May have to give it a try tomorrow since it sounds like it'll be a perfect day.  How much ice did you have and did you still start at Williams or get on somewhere else?

Anyone else get out there today?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cyclones30 on Feb 24, 2013, 05:44 PM
We tried for a bit right in front of the Williams ramp mid-day, saw a lot of marks but not many takers. Very nice day to be out, the GF caught a huge white bass but that was about it. We had 7-10" under us in every hole I drilled...
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BigRock947 on Feb 24, 2013, 05:59 PM
We tried for a bit right in front of the Williams ramp mid-day, saw a lot of marks but not many takers. Very nice day to be out, the GF caught a huge white bass but that was about it. We had 7-10" under us in every hole I drilled...

I was out today starting at the fishing point West of the East Boat Ramp. I found 10 - 11" every I drilled. I think a power auger is on the short list....my arm is tired trying to find the active fish...lots of lookers though. Great day to be out...I was almost too warm walking around the ice.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cyclones30 on Feb 24, 2013, 06:58 PM
I was in a t-shirt most of the time!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BigRock947 on Mar 03, 2013, 04:39 PM
So quiet in here...wife and I went today to fish some brush piles for blue gills. We caught 3 nice gills until a call for a family emergency cut our trip short. South end of the lake towards the East side is still 11" of ice with 2-3" of slush/snow on top (measured not guessing)
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BassyThumb on Mar 03, 2013, 06:44 PM
I was out on the channel from Williams boat ramp this afternoon.  60yrds out, then 75yrds North was all pretty decent ice.  First couple inches were snow/crap ice, the rest was pretty decent.  9"  +/-  1"   A lot of lookers and sniffers, not very many biters! 
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Mar 03, 2013, 08:27 PM
Thats the way it has been every time I have been there very hard to get them to bite but every thing you catch is always a decent fish no dinks there except the walleyes
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BigRock947 on Mar 06, 2013, 08:32 AM
Ice report...I went out yesterday for a couple of hours. Right off Williams Ramp, there is a lot of crusty snow with slush and water underneath. I used my spud bar and I was splashing a lot of water before hitting the ice. Also, I found a couple of thin spots that the bar went through after only 2 hits. The snow and slush is making hard to tell were are the good and bad spots. Did find 8-9" (measured) of ice but it didn't take much effort to drill through with my 6" Mora.

Be extremely careful if you go off of Williams Ramp...
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BigRock947 on Mar 20, 2013, 10:13 AM
Decided to swing by Big Creek to see how the ice held up from the rain a couple of weekends ago.
The picture was taken just SW of the East Boat Ramp...the line of ice is where the water line used to be.
The rain and melting snow raised the lake at least 1' if not more...

(http://i1096.photobucket.com/albums/g335/BigRock947/d79e8d31-1f06-49e9-818a-8820993faef3_zps3f8970c1.jpg)

Saw this guy out there...said he had been fishing 4 hours and not one bite.

(http://i1096.photobucket.com/albums/g335/BigRock947/831aeea7-58ff-444f-85f5-fc1ade7d572c_zpseab50741.jpg)
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Mar 20, 2013, 10:55 AM
Wow can't believe you still have ice ! I have been out open water fishing and catching crappies 10-12" on ice jigs and waxes on local lake
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: ASATMillerbluegill on Mar 20, 2013, 10:59 AM
That's cause u live in Missouri JC!!!! U guys had 2" for a week lol
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: anderson_dc on Mar 20, 2013, 12:36 PM
Big creek is up around 4'.  Thanks for the update.  I don't suppose he said how much ice there was, did he?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Mar 20, 2013, 11:00 PM
I no I need to move farther north but we had 7" for a few weeks . But why are we getting December weather now when it isn't going to do us any good Lol
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Mar 20, 2013, 11:07 PM
I can't talk the wife in to moving but I have talked her into getting me a newer truck with a big gas tank to chase ice next year. I'm planning a trip to Canada in early December this coming ice seasonLol
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BigRock947 on Mar 21, 2013, 07:54 AM
Big creek is up around 4'.  Thanks for the update.  I don't suppose he said how much ice there was, did he?

No he didn't. I didn't ask since I had to yell to be heard.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Dec 06, 2013, 10:43 AM
Bump.  Figure someone will be at big creek this weekend. Its open water now except for some coves which might be ok tomorrow or sunday. I'm going to punch a few hole this evening in a secluded spot, I'll post what I find.  Funny last year was so warm, but I was out there on dec. 9th.  This year has been cold, but not much of a difference yet.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Dec 08, 2013, 08:23 AM
Big Creek is capped now. Won't be long!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: redshackdistrict on Dec 08, 2013, 01:29 PM
Sitting out here right now with iq. Six inches in coves but also some spots of just over three farther out. Bluegills are all I've came across so far. Great to have some tight lines again
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: IceIowa1 on Dec 08, 2013, 04:05 PM
What's Lost Lake at the top of Big Creek looking like?  Anybody out there today?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Dec 08, 2013, 11:17 PM
Welcome to shanty IceIowa1  I've heard it's locked up but don't no all the details TooFuss lives closer he mows that area very well hope this helps Ron
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Dec 09, 2013, 08:40 AM
I fished Big Creek yesterday in one of the coves I normally do very well on, 4 inches most spots, less heading out towards the big lake so I didn't venture out that way. Water is very clear this year fish were holding near structure but not active due to the low pressure system that moved in. Was neat to watch the bluegills come up to the camera and stare at it.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: IceIowa1 on Dec 09, 2013, 08:56 AM
Welcome to shanty IceIowa1  I've heard it's locked up but don't no all the details TooFuss lives closer he mows that area very well hope this helps Ron
Thanks Jumbo, appreciate the Welcome!  Long time lurker finally started posting.  Thanks for the report squ1rr31_!  Just took friday off at work so I will be out there chasing them in four days.  Can't wait! 
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: catmandude on Dec 09, 2013, 02:05 PM
Was thinking about fishing off of William's Dr. Tomorrow. Anybody checked the ice in that area. Went to boone the other day to a rather large private pond and it had 5 to 6 inches. Pounded the craps and gills and would like to get out to the dead sea and do the same. Any info would be much appreciated. Thanks and tight lines!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: whlfxr on Dec 09, 2013, 04:20 PM
I just left Big Creek, I just went to check the ice and the first bay on the SE side had about 5" near the shore and 3" near the middle.  there had been someone there before me with their shack and there was a large slushy circle where the water had come up thru the holes and spread out.  I don't think the ice was thick enough when we got 4" of snow on it and it's putting pressure on it.  I didn't stick around. 
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: toofuss on Dec 10, 2013, 04:31 AM
I was the guy there before you and was sitting on 5-6in of good hard ice. when I left at around 10:30 there was no water coming up just that I wetted som snow to bank my shack in with. The wind was trying to blow me away.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Lyontyl on Dec 10, 2013, 09:22 AM
I was there yesterday in "a cove"  ;D and the bluegill were ferocious with a couple walleye mixed in there.  very solid 5-6 inches of ice.  Couldn't find the crappies, I honestly think they are already in deeper water maybe 16-20'ish ft off points or breaks, not sure because I haven't ventured outside the coves.

To the person that wants to know about Lost Lake:  I used to fish there quite a bit but with the low water the last couple years I have stumbled upon to many weak spots due to the springs back there that I rarely go back there because it makes me nervous, travel with caution.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: catmandude on Dec 10, 2013, 10:08 AM
Thanks for the retort guys. Heading out off of William Dr now. Start by coves  see if i can work my way out to where the craps are. If anybody wants to tag along  I'll be in  the red EsKimo flipmo2!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: bert29 on Dec 10, 2013, 10:13 AM
I am originally from Madrid (grew up there) and fished Big Creek since 70's and know the lake well as I've fished it through all the changes the lake has gone through. One area that might be worth looking into now is way up at north end. There were some old gravel pits up there with irregular bottom and stumps/sticks and rocks in about 6-7ft of water (with occasional pockets of 8-9ft) DNR also put in a few rock piles and brush up there years ago...but this was a hot bite at first ice for big bluegills and crappies. not as easy to get to but could be worth the walk in. Ice was always good up there at first ice and those of you reading this that fished this lake back in 80's and early 90's might remember fishing this area. For those of you looking to try somewhere different on Big Creek--this might be the place. Could be a bust, but then again, could be worth the effort to try it. The location is on the east shoreline of lake just as it starts to open up into the main creek arm. There is a long silt dam up there--go south of that on east side and go around the first point--lake then kind of goes back again toward east..that area there out from shore anywhere from 30-50 yards out, is where you might find some rock piles/brush, sticks--and the irregular bottom contours. I'm guessing depth isn't much more than 5-6ft now, but the soft bottom used to have loads of organisms in it--which probably explained why the fish were up there at first ice.

Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: catmandude on Dec 10, 2013, 08:11 PM
HIt Big creek up this afternoon. Walked off of Williams and the ice was only 3.5 inches. I felt comfortable enough walKing around on it. Made my way over to a cove and the ice  was right at 5". Caught a handful of bluegill and 5 eyes right at dusk. None of the eyes were big enough to keep. The Best part of my day was when a gentlemen out fishing 40 Fow yelled over and said "i guess there are big walleye in here". I Figured he had a Nice eater so i opened my hut and saw the biggest walleye i have ever seen pulled out of big creek. Was easily a 10 pound walleye. Guy lived it up for a minute and yelled "these are the fellas you release", as i watched him put the monster back in his hole. The guy was about a hundred yards away and by the time i thought to run over and take a pic he was releasing it. Made my day and also shows there are some very nice trophy fish at big creek! Tight lines!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: orangefeetdown on Dec 10, 2013, 08:36 PM
pics or it didnt happen  ::) ::)
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Lyontyl on Dec 11, 2013, 12:46 PM
I have seen decent ones pulled out of there, last year saw handful of 15-21 inchers pulled out by people besides myself.  I know they were all let go.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: redshackdistrict on Dec 12, 2013, 03:59 PM
Has anyone been out off Don Williams today? Wondering if we made any ice the past couple days. Hoping to get out after work tomorrow.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: catmandude on Dec 12, 2013, 04:23 PM
Redshack was out there all day and walked all over hell. Ice was a lil sloppy. Varied from 4 to 6 depending where you were. I found the crappie but is a secret spot i can't give up. Couldn't really pull allot out of brush. I got way off to the side of brush piles and was more successful. Good luck guys. Also meant a few cool dudes today. One was in an otter. Other EsKimo. Pm me and we should meet up fisHing again!
.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Lyontyl on Dec 12, 2013, 04:41 PM
I will be out there all day tomorrow for the most part.  Still on the hunt for crappies.  Put a large amount of large gills in the bucket last night with some decent eyes that were released but the papermouths still have eluded me but I have not ventured outside of the gills spots yet.  Anyone that wants to chase some papermouths tomorrow or willing to share the knowledge of where they are in order to have a fishing buddy let me know, heck I will bring the beer and heater!! :o
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: IceIowa1 on Dec 12, 2013, 08:19 PM
Lyon--Crappies are much tougher to get in the day there for some reason.  Once the sun starts to go down and then after dark are times that have always produced for me.  Even though I am saying that I wouldn't mind running into a few tomorrow.  I will be out there too.  Good luck!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: redshackdistrict on Dec 12, 2013, 08:25 PM
Thanks guys, I appreciate the help. May have to wait til Saturday now. Got stuck doing jury duty this week and pry be working all day tomorrow now.... can't wait to get out there, maybe I'll see u guys. Might be stalking u catmandude, love me some crappie. Haha
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Lyontyl on Dec 12, 2013, 08:59 PM
Yeah, I think I know where they might be just haven't ventured much since the gill bite was so good
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: catmandude on Dec 13, 2013, 10:25 AM
Will be out all day from noon till well after dark. Will be fisHing outta my EsKimo flipmo2. Most likely will venture out off Williams drive. Has anyone tried the structure around the boat ramp directly to the east across the lake from Williams. Have done very well there in past as well. Tight lines and stop out and say hey if you're in the area.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: toofuss on Dec 13, 2013, 11:05 AM
The guys from polk city bait fished that area yesterday and only ended up with one gill
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: redshackdistrict on Dec 15, 2013, 07:57 PM
Anyone have any luck out here this weekend. Fished here Friday and Saturday and it was pretty slow both days.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Lyontyl on Dec 15, 2013, 08:04 PM
After having a killer week of a fishing there, Saturday kind of put me back in my place.  Fished all day out in the main basin and only managed two crappie.  Lost four others between me and my buddy.  They were aggressive for maybe 15 minutes and that was it in the morning. 

If someone can show me how to post a picture I can show off my fish from Friday.  21 inch walleye and a 10 inch "Iowa Master Angler" bluegill.

I have noticed the size of fish so far this year in all species have been quite a bit bigger than previous years.  I think we might have a bumper crop this year.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: IceIowa1 on Dec 15, 2013, 09:29 PM
Anyone have any luck out here this weekend. Fished here Friday and Saturday and it was pretty slow both days.
  I was there both Friday during the day and early Saturday evening and could barely get a bite.  I drilled probably 30 to 40 holes each day, no luck.  It has to get better and it will! 
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Dec 16, 2013, 12:25 AM
How heavy does the master angler blue gill be because my biggest gill this week was 11 1/4 " this week
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Lyontyl on Dec 16, 2013, 08:31 AM
How heavy does the master angler blue gill be because my biggest gill this week was 11 1/4 " this week

10 inches.  So you got yourself one there.  Just take a picture of you measuring the fish, weigh it, and then send all the information in.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Dec 17, 2013, 06:42 AM
A buddy and I fished sat. Evening and managed only two crappie one 12'' and one 10.5''. They were agressive bites but we just didn't mark the usual #s. We were in 30 fow so not sure if the are still shallow.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: rawfish on Dec 29, 2013, 07:32 AM
any updates on the creek? Ice thickness? hows the bite? I was unable to get out this weekend due to deer slaying.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: ripNlips83 on Dec 29, 2013, 09:45 AM
Did i hear someone fell in?
Thought i saw something on WOI 5
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: IceIowa1 on Dec 29, 2013, 11:05 AM
     I was out there from 1 until 5 yesterday along with a  million others.  There were as many people out there yesterday as I have seen in quite a while.  Probably around 25 to 30 shacks.  Pretty much all over the lake but a good chunk right out from Williams about 75 yards out sitting over the channel.  I drilled holes in about a 50 yard diameter around that spot and never saw less than 8 inches of good ice.  Fished anywhere from 35-38 feet of water, caught several nice crappie and missed on a couple other bites.  Brought home two decent Crapps for dinner.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: IceIowa1 on Dec 29, 2013, 11:09 AM
Rip----Someone reportedly had one leg go through a hole up in the Lost Lake area at the top of Big Creek.  He was fine from the report I saw.  They said DNR was telling people to stay off of there because of the natural springs.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Dec 30, 2013, 08:01 AM
Heard the guy broke his leg, but that's also second hand info from the Polk City bait facebook.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FishinFFP on Dec 30, 2013, 10:51 AM
Currently sitting on big creek..any help is greatly appreciated!  Thank you
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: bert29 on Dec 30, 2013, 11:25 AM
if you want to try new area, go up north farther off of marina area...out in that area is a flat...find about 13-14ft of water...DNR put a lot of brush and rock piles out there and at times during winter they can be loaded with panfish-even walleyes/wipers...if you find them they will be in row running north/south along that depth with another row of them in 18ft of water (out further) kind of hard to tell you in message but if you have power auger, flasher (or even camera) you can find them..I'm guessing if you walk out from the marina area (about straight across (kind of westerly direction) lake out from shore about 200 yrds, you'll be in right area. I myself am heading out here in SW Iowa near Glenwood otherwise I'd join you! I'm from Madrid originally and grew up on that lake
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FishinFFP on Dec 30, 2013, 03:14 PM
Thank you bert29 we will have to go and find that area
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: southfork on Dec 30, 2013, 03:38 PM
If you walk straight out from the marina, the rock piles and brush lie on a line that lines up with the rock jetti north of the marina with the rock jetti to the south and west side.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FishinFFP on Dec 30, 2013, 03:51 PM
From the boat ramp off nw williams which way do we go for the marina?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: anderson_dc on Dec 30, 2013, 04:07 PM
The marina is on the other side of the lake and to the north of Williams Dr. boat ramp.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: toofuss on Dec 30, 2013, 09:15 PM
Heard the guy broke his leg, but that's also second hand info from the Polk City bait facebook.

Yes he did break his leg. It was Larry from polk city bait.

EDIT: sorry guys missunderstood jeremy while I was on the phone with him.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BassyThumb on Jan 02, 2014, 07:18 PM
I fished the area near the marina last year.  I was South of rock piles and in 17ft of water..  basically drilled and drilled and drilled, found the deepest channel running north and south..  we caught a few LMB, bluegills, crappie. A NICE perch,  few small walleye, and a 3lb channel cat all within a few hours!  It was my best day fishing there for sure! That's where I will be on my next outing.  Maybe this Saturday.   

This year has been less then stellar for me there though.  4 trips, and only 2 gills to show..  anyone else doing any good this year?


Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Jan 02, 2014, 11:09 PM
Last year it used to be good off of Williams ramp not fast action but always nice quality fish
Title: Big creek?
Post by: drewgills on Jan 09, 2014, 09:43 AM
Any reports on the night bite .
Title: Re: Big creek?
Post by: Lyontyl on Jan 09, 2014, 01:08 PM
I have been targeting walleyes lately since I felt the weather has shut the panfish bite off.  I think the bite will pick back up by the weekend with the weather normalizing a little bit.  We will see.

Walleye were still pretty aggressive from 4:30 until 7.  They thinned out at about 6 but were still aggressive when they did come through.
Title: Re: Big creek?
Post by: FISH.FILLET on Jan 09, 2014, 01:37 PM
Where have the walleye been biting? Location on big creek, fow, and what to use for bait? If you don't mind
Title: Re: Big creek?
Post by: Phish on Jan 09, 2014, 01:45 PM
Where have the walleye been biting? Location on big creek, fow, and what to use for bait? If you don't mind



Are you serious??
Title: Re: Big creek?
Post by: FISH.FILLET on Jan 09, 2014, 01:50 PM


Are you serious??

Yes. I have not been on big creek. Is it ok that I ask
Title: Re: Big creek?
Post by: Mr.Seaguar on Jan 09, 2014, 02:55 PM
Yes. I have not been on big creek. Is it ok that I ask

That's a bit over the top. Asking a fellow fisherman where to fish and what to use for bait. Its pretty poor manners. I am not scolding you, just giving you a heads up for future reference.  Its like asking another guy for his girlfriends phone number. But girlfriends are easier to come by than fishing spots. Good luck
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Lyontyl on Jan 09, 2014, 03:08 PM
I don't mind giving out what I was using and depth.  Location is probably a little bit more sacred to me.

I have been using a small, silver, Johnston Thinfisher in 15-20 ft of water.  A silver and green Clam Psycho Shad has had some decent results as well.  There has been sorting but I typically can pick up at least 2 keepers when I go out although I have never kept a walleye out of Big Creek.  Occasionally you can get into a real nice one but don't expect it.

Typically feeding times for best bit although I have found mornings to be slightly better.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH.FILLET on Jan 09, 2014, 05:24 PM
Thanks. If you didn't want to post any of that I would understand. I have never caught a walleye through the ice so I was curious. Bait I was asking more like minnow or wax. You gave more detail which I appreciate.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: walleyewarrior50595 on Jan 09, 2014, 10:54 PM
Iowa anglers from ia sportsman im assuming ::)
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BigRock947 on Jan 17, 2014, 12:26 PM
Anybody going this weekend?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Schmitty13 on Jan 21, 2014, 10:43 PM
Anyone wanna help me out n let me know what times the bite is best?  Completely new to the area and don't really wanna spend a full 12 hours on the ice to find out haha
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BigRock947 on Jan 22, 2014, 08:00 AM
Anyone wanna help me out n let me know what times the bite is best?  Completely new to the area and don't really wanna spend a full 12 hours on the ice to find out haha

What are you targeting? Walleye....Crappie...B luegill?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jkujawa81 on Jan 22, 2014, 09:46 PM
Waterloo area gonna come down next week looking to find some crappies and gills.... any help would be great
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: anderson_dc on Jan 23, 2014, 06:55 AM
Waterloo area gonna come down next week looking to find some crappies and gills.... any help would be great
Bypass Big Creek and head over to Brushy Creek.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Lyontyl on Jan 23, 2014, 08:32 AM
I agree with Anderson_DC.  Big Creek is great but it is so hot and cold.  Even if you know the lake it can even be tough.  I feel like Brushy is easier to get on fish and it's about an hour closer to you.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BigRock947 on Jan 23, 2014, 10:41 AM
I can't disagree with those two guys....I mainly hit Big Creek because its in my 'backyard'.

Bluegills have been okay for me when I find them. I've really had to move around the brush piles to find them though.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: redshackdistrict on Jan 23, 2014, 03:44 PM
I would go with their advice as well, unless you are really good and are looking for a challenge.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Schmitty13 on Jan 26, 2014, 08:33 PM
What are you targeting? Walleye....Crappie...B luegill?

Looking for walleye or crappie
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: crappiiguy on Jan 28, 2014, 10:30 AM
Wouldnt Coralville be closer from Waterloo.  Heard good things about the lake. 
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: esox_magnum on Feb 02, 2014, 09:38 PM
Ok fished the Team Extreme event and expected a dead sea, far from it was good fishing. We didn't get into the crappies during the tourney but had our 8 gill limit in 20 minutes with almost a 9" average. Hammered the crappies pre fishing but only managed 3 for the tourney 1 nice one just shy of 12" and 2 others at 9 and 6" and still weighed in almost 7 pounds. Winners weighed in 8 gills 8 crappies at over 10 pounds and took big fish with a 1.1 pound gill....
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BigRock947 on Feb 03, 2014, 10:56 AM
Ok fished the Team Extreme event and expected a dead sea, far from it was good fishing. We didn't get into the crappies during the tourney but had our 8 gill limit in 20 minutes with almost a 9" average. Hammered the crappies pre fishing but only managed 3 for the tourney 1 nice one just shy of 12" and 2 others at 9 and 6" and still weighed in almost 7 pounds. Winners weighed in 8 gills 8 crappies at over 10 pounds and took big fish with a 1.1 pound gill....

Yeah.....not sure everyone refers to as the 'dead sea'....I prefer to call it a 'finicky' lake....I can find the fish all the time, now getting them want to bite that's something else.....
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: catmandude on Feb 03, 2014, 04:23 PM
Big creek has been producing quality fish these past two weeks. Went out today and got on some real nice gills and craps. One of the crappies was just under 13 inches. Have some pics of the last few outings. Not quite sure how to post them yet.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Feb 03, 2014, 10:05 PM
Everytime I've been there the bite is tough you always have to grind them out but there's always quality fish there
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BassyThumb on Feb 04, 2014, 07:56 PM
Caught my first keeper EYE this last weekend.  It was delicious!  Figuring the crappie out finally too..  Also, a 4.5# channel cat..  That was FUN!  =)
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: redshackdistrict on Feb 19, 2014, 12:04 PM
Anyone been by to seeing vehicles are on the ice this week with the warm weather. Going after work and hoping its still good to drive on to get the most time I can. Was back home this weekend and didn't get time to fish. Having some serious symptoms of withdrawal
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Feb 19, 2014, 12:41 PM
I think driving might be off the menu because the edges will be getting week IMO
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: DMPcope on Feb 19, 2014, 05:49 PM
Jumbo has a good point, but I would be more worried about the rain tonight taking a toll on the edges.. good news is we will be making ice again after the weekend.  That is if you believe any weatherman more than 3 days out.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Feb 19, 2014, 09:49 PM
The best thing about this rain is the fishing will be on fire :icefish: :icefish: :clap:
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: redshackdistrict on Feb 20, 2014, 05:28 AM
It was still fine to drive on. It hasn't started raining up here yet. Be interesting to see what the rest of the day will bring.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BassyThumb on Feb 22, 2014, 09:03 PM
Drove on it tonight.  There were a few other trucks out n about as well.  Got on at north boat ramp. It looked like it was pretty slushy the last few days, but all froze up tonight.  Marked fish everywhere we drilled, but ZERO takers.  Seemed like if you moved your bait at all they would take off.  They just would not chase at all..  kinda weird.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jumbo chaser on Feb 22, 2014, 09:55 PM
The fish get a little negative after the crazy weather we have been having
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BigRock947 on Mar 06, 2014, 08:08 AM
I was out there yesterday from 5 until 8. Not many people out on the lake. Water looked a little brown but not as bad as a couple of other lakes I've been.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: redshackdistrict on Mar 06, 2014, 10:27 AM
Did u catch anything or just the normal look at ya and swim away when u move it. Goin down tomorrow afternoon to see what's happening. Hope they are ready to bite by then.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: BigRock947 on Mar 06, 2014, 11:33 AM
Did u catch anything or just the normal look at ya and swim away when u move it. Goin down tomorrow afternoon to see what's happening. Hope they are ready to bite by then.

Yes pretty much what I experienced.  :'( On the first drop something came flying into check it out.....I thought "Man, its on..." then nothing
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: whlfxr on Mar 06, 2014, 04:04 PM
We were on Big Creek Sunday.  Took home 3 crappies 12" 12" 14".  Caught 1 small walleye 20 fow.  Slow and colder that H**L.  30" of good ice for drivinng though.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: mrtrebor on Mar 06, 2014, 10:04 PM
Just finished cleaning two 17 1/2 inch walleyes caught this evening. northern half of the lake near the tree piles in 26 fow.  drove four wheeler out, some snow drifts but several trucks out also... ice thickness 28 inches...also caught two smaller eyes but they were only 13 inches....minnows under bobber,  don't jig or the fish leave...good luck all
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: redshackdistrict on Mar 07, 2014, 06:30 AM
Yes pretty much what I experienced.  :'( On the first drop something came flying into check it out.....I thought "Man, its on..." then nothing

There's plenty of them in there. I had one really good outting there this year and I had to leave for a Xmas party. I did stay longer than i should have but wish I would've just stayed til they quit... I be down there sitting really still tonight try in not to scare them off.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Dec 01, 2014, 11:47 AM
Drove by yesterday and it's about 30% ice covered in the narrow spots and in the coves.  Southeast cove had ice on it, about 2 inches next to shore, less farther out.  Curious if anyone did any good during open water on the brush piles they sunk up by the marina?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: yakker13 on Dec 03, 2014, 01:44 PM
Drove along the east side yesterday and it looked iced over as far as I could see. Did not check the thickness though.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Crawdad28 on Dec 03, 2014, 09:32 PM
Fished it today up to 5" in the bay.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: redshackdistrict on Dec 03, 2014, 09:55 PM
What bay u speaking of. Been seeing a lot of ice on the webcam
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Dec 04, 2014, 09:53 AM
People were out on lost lake and the south east cove yesterday
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jlpaulsen87 on Dec 04, 2014, 08:17 PM
Thinking about doing brushy Saturday and bc Sunday morn. Cause it's closer to home.  You guys think the ice will hold through this warm spell or no?
Title: Big Creek
Post by: CKennedy on Jan 02, 2015, 06:54 AM
Has anyone been over to Big Creek yet? Just wondering on the ice conditions.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jho on Jan 03, 2015, 09:57 AM
I read there is 4 -5 inches of ice in certain places. I'm headed there today. Can report back later.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: jho on Jan 03, 2015, 06:01 PM
Good ice south of williams boat ramp. North side looked very sketchy. Marked only a few fish but we're aggressive biters. All in all tough day
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: DirkDitchPickle on Jan 03, 2015, 08:36 PM
Good 5" to 6" to the east side of Williams boat ramp as of Friday.
Good solid, smooth black ice. Should be quite a bit thicker by the end of next week with all the cold coming. Fish weren't biting where I was sitting, but i was also having some heater stress which distracted me from my primary mission. Probably 40+ people on the ice Friday.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Big.ice.hole on Jan 06, 2015, 12:49 PM
Who plans on fishing big creek Saturday...
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: CKennedy on Jan 09, 2015, 04:06 PM
I am heading out tonight after work. Hoping to be set up around 5:30. I will be out there Sunday morning for sure and maybe Sunday afternoon. Hope to catch 'em.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: slick ice on Jan 09, 2015, 07:12 PM
Is the ice good enough for snowmobiles and four wheelers yet?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Dave R on Jan 09, 2015, 07:55 PM
According to the DNR's latest fishing report; "ice mostly 8", but thinner spots exist mid-lake between the west ramp and marina where ice formed last."
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: kevt528 on Jan 10, 2015, 11:59 AM
Gonna head out to big creek this afternoon, hope the bite is on today! ;D
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: little slick ice on Jan 11, 2015, 01:17 PM
Slow day marked a few fish no takers. A lot of people moving around.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Zugunruhe on Jan 11, 2015, 03:27 PM
Dead Sea.  Found the spots I wanted, moved a lot, can't say that I marked anything.  Went to Lost Lake, initially marked a few fish but they were very negative and ended the day fishless.  Not often that happens. 

Snow on the ice at Big Creek is really concerning- it is putting tremendous stress on the ice.  Several areas where you drill a hole and the water comes gushing out.  Pretty soon your fishing in 4" of slush.  We need a thaw, melt that crap off the top and refreeze or it is going to be difficult to make ice that will last the season.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: slick ice on Jan 14, 2015, 12:50 PM
Anyone been out this week. Has the bit picked up. Think about going tomorrow night . :icefish:
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: slick ice on Jan 15, 2015, 10:19 PM
Fished from 5:30-8:00 slow night caught two walleyes. The biggest one was 14" that came on a tip up. I know there's keeper's some where in this lake ....LOL
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: bert29 on Jan 16, 2015, 08:57 AM
Slick Ice:
try targeting walleyes in the area south of the beach...find the old creek channel that is in that area. be in about 32-36ft of water...work the edges of the old channel (you'll have to go a few hundred yards south of beach to find it..look on a lake map of big creek and you'll see where it winds through between there and the area where Williams Drive is at...fish the flats close to the channel. there are some old cinder block and red field tile piles out in that area farmers put there before lake was flooded.. there are some old original tree stumps out in that area too on the flats next to the channel in about 26-30 ft..we used to catch, walleyes, catfish, perch, and big crappies out there. You had to move and fish on the run, but worth it. Only bad thing was fishing that deep, fish swim bladders would come up, so we tried reeling them up slow--unless we knew we had a fish we might keep.

I fished that area about 3 years ago over Xmas break when I was back home, and caught 2 nice walleyes (16-18" fish) and one nice bass in that area I just described. Jigging spoons tipped with either spikes or minnow head should work. good luck
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: slick ice on Jan 16, 2015, 12:18 PM
That spot is good. Last year I did good on the eyes .thanks  for the tips.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: bert29 on Jan 16, 2015, 02:19 PM
slick Ice:
if you want to try a "different" spot on Big Creek that is a bit of a gamble, go up to the north end of the lake (in the Big creek arm)..go past Ranger's cove area, and fish the area where the old gravel pits were. Here is best description of where this area is--without me pointing to it on a map!...go up the area known as Ranger's Cove (on east side..north of the marina..follow the east shoreline north of the cove until you come to the first major point on that same east side. out in front of that area,--and to the north of that-- are the old original gravel pits. It won't be deep---5-7ft but there still a lot of the old ridges and troughs of the pit--and also rock piles and old stumps. I believe not many people venture up there to fish anymore as it's either a long walk--or not worth going. It might be a bust, or you might get into some really big gills and crappies up there. there are some old springs still active in that area, which drew fish. There is also an area up there that is a clay/marl bottom that is perfect habitat for bloodworms and such. It was a probably what drew baitfish--which drew other fish. You'll either have to park way up at the north end and walk in--or best best would be to use ATV and come out of the area near the marina boat ramp.
All I know is that many years ago--this was the place to fish on this lake..especially early, but then we'd fish it all winter and late ice was good in that area again!
Again, it's a crapshoot. I know things change--and lake dynamics, bottom, cover, etc---but if you don't mind stepping out of the box and trying different places, you'll never know. You'll know within an hour if it's worth fishing. I'd drill a bunch of holes up there all over that area--then hole jump and see what you find
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: slick ice on Jan 21, 2015, 12:51 PM
Anyone been out this week? Just want to know how the ice is holding up.
Title: Big creek tonight
Post by: Big.ice.hole on Jan 27, 2015, 11:30 AM
Dad and I are going to be on the lake around 3:30 I'll let you know how it goes tonight wish us luck!!!
Title: Re: Big creek tonight
Post by: snokyguy on Jan 27, 2015, 04:08 PM
good luck man. lake has NOT been good to me lately (like last year too).
Title: Re: Big creek tonight
Post by: slick ice on Jan 27, 2015, 08:04 PM
Let us know how the ice is doing.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: slick ice on Jan 29, 2015, 10:23 AM
Has any been on the lake this week. Just want to know if the ice is still good.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Dwedemeier on Jan 29, 2015, 09:25 PM
I was out yesterday and there was a soft 8-9'' on the main lake. There were about a half dozen of us out there.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: snokyguy on Feb 01, 2015, 08:54 AM
anyone get on the lake before the snow storm? was debating with a buddy that is snowed in dsm with me of going out. we were thinking of hunkering in on deeper brush south end of lake. walking in either from southern most bay on the east and walking over to the west side or walking down one of those hills on the west. snows adding a lot of weight, and we would obviously test drill, but figured I'd see if anyone had data before we even tried.
thanks!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: snokyguy on Feb 02, 2015, 09:10 AM
just so ya'll know the fishing was HOT yesterday.
took us 2 hrs of busting drifts around the lake to find somewhere to access though. lots of slush/water around edges with snow on top. we managed to finally get out on east side, went to a brush pile, dug in, and cranked out a limit of bluegills in 2.5 hrs. man was it beautiful out and we were the ONLY people on the lake. lots of work coming back off though as we drifted into some 3' drifts on the lake.

lot of work to fish in a blizzard, but man were they hungry!

give it a few days before you take your snowmobiles out there guys. there were people playing and getting stuck at the slush edges all over.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: IceAddict87 on Feb 03, 2015, 07:33 PM
Anybody been out to big creek lately?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Dwedemeier on Feb 04, 2015, 07:11 PM
Was out there yesterday from 5:00pm-6:45. Marked quite a few but only managed to catch 1 13'' walleye. Ice was at least 8'' and the shorelines were slushy but not terrible.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: tmarr04 on Feb 09, 2015, 01:09 PM
Anybody been out over the weekend? Was thinking about trying the evening bite today, but want to be sure it's safe. If not, I'll update conditions there
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: IceAddict87 on Feb 09, 2015, 01:29 PM
I was out from 7:00-12 Saturday morning, didn't have a lot of luck but the ice was good then. 8-10" of good clear ice, with varying amounts of slush/ snow the but I assume it has melted by now.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: tmarr04 on Feb 09, 2015, 01:55 PM
May i ask where you walked out, shorelines?
Title: Question for Iowan Ice Anglers
Post by: trekr200 on Dec 11, 2016, 02:12 PM
We are planning a ice fishing trip to Big Creek Lake.  Can anyone give us information on the lake (i.e., ramp location, types of fish, etc.)?

Thank you,
Mike
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: drakevh on Dec 11, 2016, 03:18 PM
Anyone heard any info or know of anything from Big Creek. I just moved to the Des Moines area this summer and was wondering if this would be a decent place to wet some lines.
Title: Re: Question for Iowan Ice Anglers
Post by: Dave R on Dec 11, 2016, 03:27 PM
Here is a link that will take you to the Iowa DNR website for Big Creek Lake.   http://www.iowadnr.gov/idnr/Fishing/Where-to-Fish/Lakes-Ponds-Reservoirs/LakeDetails/lakeCode/BIC77

I don't know when you are planning your trip, but we should have safe ice by weeks end. You may also want to post any other questions on the Iowa section of Ice Shanty.
Title: Re: Question for Iowan Ice Anglers
Post by: potatoe on Dec 11, 2016, 03:31 PM
Plenty of boat ramps around the lake and parking, we have not fished the lake much and it is only a short drive for us. Just curious what brings you guys to Iowa to try this lake.
Title: Re: Question for Iowan Ice Anglers
Post by: trekr200 on Dec 11, 2016, 04:11 PM
Potatoe,
It is labeled as one the 5 best places to ice fish in Iowa.  Also, I have family that live close to the lake.

Mike
Title: Big Creek Lake Newbie
Post by: trekr200 on Dec 11, 2016, 04:18 PM
We are planning a trip to Big Creek in early February.  We have never fished the lake and I was wondering if we could get some advice from you folks? 

Any information would be appreciated.

Thank you,
Mike
Title: Re: Question for Iowan Ice Anglers
Post by: potatoe on Dec 11, 2016, 05:58 PM
interesting info, I just went to the Iowa DNR site. There are two maps you can print, one has locations of structure but not sure I understand the coordinates.

The lake is super close to me and we barely fish it because we have probably not given it a chance

There is a bait shop in Polk City also, easy to find next to the Kum and Go gas station
Title: Re: Question for Iowan Ice Anglers
Post by: Shack man Shoney on Dec 11, 2016, 06:29 PM
Potatoe,
It is labeled as one the 5 best places to ice fish in Iowa.  Also, I have family that live close to the lake.

Mike
I'm also curious, where did you find Big Creek labeled as one of the 5 best places to fish in Iowa???
Title: Re: Big Creek Lake Newbie
Post by: Hard H2O Gold Hunter on Dec 11, 2016, 07:34 PM
I live 15 miles from Big Creek. Never caught a keeper walleye yet in 10 years. Have managed to get some nice gills and crappie. I fish it a couple times a month just cause it's close but I would rather drive for better fishing. I refer to it as the Dead Sea. I hear others can do well but apparently I just don't have the knack for this lake. I do 10 times better open water fishing here than through the ice. Good luck on your trip.
Title: Re: Big Creek Lake Newbie
Post by: Hard H2O Gold Hunter on Dec 11, 2016, 07:44 PM
http://www.iowadnr.gov/Fishing/Where-to-Fish/Lakes-Ponds-Reservoirs/LakeDetails/lakeCode/BIC77
Title: Re: Question for Iowan Ice Anglers
Post by: trekr200 on Dec 11, 2016, 07:47 PM
http://www.gameandfishmag.com/fishing/fishing_icefishing-fishing_5_fabulous_locations_for_iowa_ice-fishing_120210/
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: D0wnbyth3r1v3r on Dec 12, 2016, 01:10 PM
About a week ago a friend said it was not capped. I don't think the ice is very thick there if it did cap.
Title: Re: Big Creek Lake Newbie
Post by: D0wnbyth3r1v3r on Dec 12, 2016, 01:25 PM
From my experience your better off going elsewhere.
Title: Re: Question for Iowan Ice Anglers
Post by: D0wnbyth3r1v3r on Dec 12, 2016, 01:46 PM
From my experience I would go elsewhere.
Title: Re: Question for Iowan Ice Anglers
Post by: Unclegillhunter on Dec 12, 2016, 02:40 PM
Well from my experience when someone says fishing is no good go someplace else they want to keep the place to themselves! Just kidding! I also saw the Iowa DNR says that it is one of the top 5spots for ice fishing in Iowa.
Keep,it safe! JDL
Title: Re: Question for Iowan Ice Anglers
Post by: D0wnbyth3r1v3r on Dec 12, 2016, 02:48 PM
If you wish to experience first hand feel free:) I'm not one of those guys. Id rather have someone who travels spend there time wisely instead of wasted.
Title: Re: Question for Iowan Ice Anglers
Post by: sitandfish on Dec 12, 2016, 02:52 PM
If you wish to experience first hand feel free:) I'm not one of those guys. Id rather have someone who travels spend there time wisely instead of wasted.

Agreed!! In my experience it is one of those lakes that takes time to figure out...Time that I wouldn't want to spend if traveling...
Title: Re: Question for Iowan Ice Anglers
Post by: SchlitzBeer on Dec 12, 2016, 03:39 PM
Took the boat out two weeks ago. Plenty of brush piles on the west side of the lake (in a bout 15'-25'). Dropped the camera down and saw many gills and crappies suspended about 17' in 25'. Couldn't get them to commit to the hook easily though.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: southfork on Dec 12, 2016, 04:38 PM
It was still mostly open as of last SAturday night.
Title: Re: Big Creek Lake Newbie
Post by: Dave R on Dec 12, 2016, 05:09 PM
I know of guys that like fishing that lake. And, I use to fish it quite a bit, but never fell in love with it. Haven't fished it in five or six years, so perhaps things have changed.
Title: Re: Big Creek Lake Newbie
Post by: bert29 on Dec 12, 2016, 05:59 PM
Big Creek is like any other lake (or body of water) Those that fish it a lot, know it well, and know where to go, and when to go, and what to use. I grew up on that lake (and Saylorville too) as I lived in Madrid back in the day!  My advice would be if you are coming to the DM area and want to fish, and want to try Big Creek, just follow some of the crowds. Try Lost Lake area (the area above the spillway) or out in front of Williams Drive boat ramp area--or if you have people that you are coming to visit, see if they can get you onto private farm ponds--there is where your best bet would be for some nice panfish.

As mentioned, check with the Polk City baitshop as they may have some information on ice condtions, fishing report, etc.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: potatoe on Dec 12, 2016, 07:50 PM
I called the bait shop today, they said still some open spots. I would like to find a few spots to fish this year with my son. I do not think we have ever pulled a fish from the ice on this lake - just no luck
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Crawdad28 on Dec 12, 2016, 09:32 PM
I was out there yesterday, wasn't even capped yet, kicked a hole right through even where it was iced in the bay.
Do yourself a huge favor and do not waste a trip coming to fish Big Creek. It is one of the worst lakes in the state. It truly is the Dead Sea and I fish it often.
Waaaay better off hitting either Clear Lake up North or going farther south to like 12 mile and such.
Sure you might catch a  fish or maybe even get lucky and find a keeper walleye or two or some keeper crappie or a striper. But this is the exception. You really have to know the lake and how to fish it to have any sort of consistency out there. It's a joke in my family that when we go to Big Crek that to catch one of anything you did well.
I sent the pic of the descent walleye I caught this summer and his response was  " at big creek! Wow!," lol
Yeah sure there's a few guys that fish it hard and often that do "descent" but even descent on Big Creek is not very good.
Not trying to dis the lake, I love going there as its a very nice park"for Iowa" and they keep the lake up well, but I would feel bad to see anyone make any sort of fishing trip out of going there.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Shack man Shoney on Dec 12, 2016, 09:35 PM
Big Creek would make my bottom 5 list for sure.....
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cbducks78 on Dec 12, 2016, 11:03 PM
Treaker 200,  pm me and I tell you locations where you can catch 30 walleyes in an average evening out.  Now, 95% of those fish will be 14.5" or just under leagal limit, but you will catch some to take home as well.  Great place to experiment with different lures for walleyes. 

Just have to know where to go, and believe me from experience there are some trophies in there. 
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Jseve on Dec 14, 2016, 10:08 AM
Stopped by the lake this morning before work, still a lot of open water to the north, all the way from the rock pier on the east side to the north had open pockets. If you drew a line from the handicap dock to the Williams boat ramp everything south of that line looked to be locked up.  I walked out about 15' off the east boat ramp looked pretty solid  ~3-4" seeing open water in the horizon I stayed close to shore, I will be bringing my auger with on Friday to drill out and will give a report then.  Just a heads up the ice off of ensign shelter was full of open water pockets as if it is freezing very unevenly I wouldn't trust the north part of the lake for at least another 4-5 days.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: bjohnson1102 on Dec 16, 2016, 09:22 AM
Treaker 200,  pm me and I tell you locations where you can catch 30 walleyes in an average evening out.  Now, 95% of those fish will be 14.5" or just under leagal limit, but you will catch some to take home as well.  Great place to experiment with different lures for walleyes. 

Just have to know where to go, and believe me from experience there are some trophies in there.

Hey cbducks78,

Long time follower of this forum, but never posted before.  In fact, just created my account so I could post this message to  you.  I tried creating a private message to send to you, but I wasn't allowed; not sure if it's because I'm a new user or what??

Anyway, recently moved to the DM area as well and Big Creek is close enough to me that I could get there reasonably quick.  I would love to take my son and catch some fish, but it sound really hit or miss.  At any rate, I would love if you would PM me some locations to get started on the lake.  Any help much appreciated!

Thanks,
Brad
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Dec 16, 2016, 09:28 AM
Hey cbducks78,

Long time follower of this forum, but never posted before.  In fact, just created my account so I could post this message to  you.  I tried creating a private message to send to you, but I wasn't allowed; not sure if it's because I'm a new user or what??

Anyway, recently moved to the DM area as well and Big Creek is close enough to me that I could get there reasonably quick.  I would love to take my son and catch some fish, but it sound really hit or miss.  At any rate, I would love if you would PM me some locations to get started on the lake.  Any help much appreciated!

Thanks,
Brad

Brad,

You'll need a few more posts before the PM feature is available.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Dec 16, 2016, 09:30 AM
I don't have a kid, but I do have a dog. Does that qualify me for free ice fishing spots?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Dwedemeier on Dec 22, 2016, 01:07 PM
Has anyone been on the lake out from Williams Boat ramp or out from the handicap dock? Just wondering out ice thickness. Thanks!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: FISH_IQ on Dec 23, 2016, 07:26 AM
Ice was 6+ yesterday Dec 22 from don williams south a ways.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Dwedemeier on Dec 26, 2016, 11:23 AM
I was out Friday evening and Saturday morning. Caught about 15 crappies from 9-11" and a few decent bluegills fishing structure on the main lake. Has anyone checked the ice there today? Ice was 6" Saturday morning. 
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: bus33 on Dec 26, 2016, 07:36 PM
I checked today.  There were a few guys out fishing.  I used a spud bar and the ice is ok out from the west boat ramp.  There are a few leg sized holes that looked like air pockets that were really thin....not big enough for your whole body to go in but definitely a foot or leg.  The shore line was a little deteriorated but not bad enough to keep you off.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: potatoe on Jan 01, 2017, 08:14 PM
gave it a chance tonight, tried Williams ramp. Lot's of guys out marked some fish but no takers. Not sure what I am doing wrong but I really want to try and catch some fish on this lake
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Jan 01, 2017, 10:17 PM
You're probably marking shad or white bass, they typically don't bite.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: potatoe on Jan 02, 2017, 07:35 AM
Thanks makes me feel better, there was a bunch out there fishing. It appeared not catching much as many were packing up when it got close to dusk. Going to give it another chance just not sure where to start.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Jan 02, 2017, 08:26 AM
Thanks makes me feel better, there was a bunch out there fishing. It appeared not catching much as many were packing up when it got close to dusk. Going to give it another chance just not sure where to start.

DNR website has all of the structure marked, otherwise try the coves or the main creek channel.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: lewis66 on Jan 03, 2017, 12:10 AM
Went out on Monday, 7" of ice or better. Only stayed for an hour, slow bite, caught 3 keeper crappies, but they were biting very light. Don't know if it will be safe after the rain. Anyone have thoughts on tomorrow?
Title: Big Creek
Post by: ecrooked on Jan 27, 2017, 10:52 AM
Checking to see if anyone knows the ice conditions on Big Creek next to Saylorville?  Looking to go out this weekend.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Douglas14 on Jan 27, 2017, 03:00 PM
Ice was good on Wednesday....fishing was good as well.  Shouldn't have any issues with ice. 
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Bates on Feb 08, 2017, 07:59 AM
By the looks of the cameras around the marina there is a lot of open water. How much of the lake is open?
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: IceAddict87 on Feb 09, 2017, 01:32 PM
Pretty much around the marina and beach. A lot on the NE portion. Mid lake was good. Went Sunday and hat 10+, most I've been on all year. Fishing was horrible Sunday though.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Bates on Feb 09, 2017, 05:35 PM
The sheets are moving.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: bus33 on Feb 10, 2017, 02:30 PM
Drove by today and there is a lot more open water every day.  Today the beach area has opened pretty much south of there to the jetty NW of the handicap dock.  With the temps the next week I could get the boat out on parts of the lake.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Dwedemeier on Dec 26, 2017, 10:09 AM
Checked the KCCI SchoolNet8 lake camera and it looks like the lake finally locked up over the weekend. I drove past Friday and it was still wide open.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: bus33 on Dec 27, 2017, 01:07 PM
Drove around Big Creek yesterday (26th).  Saw a couple guys walking along the shore on the west side headed toward the cove just south of the west boat ramp.  I can't speak to ice thickness.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: bert29 on Jan 03, 2018, 09:56 AM
I will be back in central Iowa this Saturday (Jan. 6) and planning on fishing at Big Creek for the day. If anyone is interested in joining up with me, let me know. I grew up north of the lake (Madrid) and know some under the radar areas on the lake that might be worth trying. You can P Message me if interested. Be good to meet a few new ice shanty members in central part of the state to fish with!

Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: ecrooked on Jan 04, 2018, 12:17 PM
Anyone have an ice report on Big Creek?

Even though I likely wont catch anything, I refuse to give up. Going out this weekend for the ol college try. Ice report app doesnt have any updates.

Thanks!
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Dwedemeier on Jan 04, 2018, 12:34 PM
Ice was 8" off Williams on Monday where I fished. 4 small gills.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Central Iowa on Jan 04, 2018, 11:03 PM
11” tonight, tough bite.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Central Iowa on Jan 05, 2018, 12:57 PM
 I should add that was on the west side north of the boat ramps.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Jmac100 on Jan 08, 2018, 08:05 AM
Big Creek last week.  I caught over 80 gills in the Lost Lake area....not one keeper in the bunch.  Saw large schools of gizzard shad on my camera.  I let the DNR guys know at the park office and they said they're aware they're back.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: bus33 on Jan 09, 2018, 09:04 AM
Big Creek last week.  I caught over 80 gills in the Lost Lake area....not one keeper in the bunch.  Saw large schools of gizzard shad on my camera.  I let the DNR guys know at the park office and they said they're aware they're back.

When I was fishing this fall from the boat, there were tons of shad breaking the surface at dusk.  I'm worried it's game over once again for BC. 
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: potatoe on Jan 09, 2018, 07:11 PM
I had the same result this fall, lots of them
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Chili on Jan 09, 2018, 07:23 PM
Finally a good day at the creek today. Crushed the gills along with a couple big crappie. Shad is a bad - saw a ton of dead ones under the ice.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: ecrooked on Jan 24, 2019, 10:12 AM
Well, has anyone been out to see if there is fishable ice? I am looking to go out this weekend
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Dave R on Jan 24, 2019, 04:11 PM
Well, has anyone been out to see if there is fishable ice? I am looking to go out this weekend


According to the DNRs weekly fishing report: "Conditions are improving, anglers will start to venture back out. Use caution as there will  thinner spots under the snow where there was open water a little over a week ago. Foot traffic only; ATVs are not recommended yet."
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: hookset81 on Jan 28, 2019, 10:16 AM
I was out yesterday with a friend. There was good ice on most of the lake, we did take my atv and his snowmobile out on the lake and didn't have any major issues.  I did hit a slush pocket closer to the dam than most anyone was fishing.  I would say that you need to use caution if you want to take a machine out but this cold weather should grow enough ice to be safe for machines by the weekend.

 
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: cbducks78 on Jan 28, 2019, 03:38 PM
Fished it yesterday,

Noticed areas with deep drifts had 3" ice out in the middle.  Most other places had 5-6".
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: ecrooked on Jan 29, 2019, 10:37 AM
Fished it last weekend, two straight days, marked a few fish, no takers....tons of shad marked. Time to move on I guess
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: Bryfish84 on Jan 29, 2019, 01:23 PM
It’s sad this lake doesn’t change. It has a ton of potential but for some reason it just never improves.
Title: Re: Big Creek
Post by: hookset81 on Jan 30, 2019, 10:30 AM
There are monster walleye in there but you have a hard time catching them because of the shad population.  They just aren't hungry...

I have seen 30"+ eyes pulled out of it by the DNR in the netting surveys and it amazes me nobody ever catches them.