New to Central Iowa ice fishing

[cyfan964]

I'm originally from NW Iowa and haven't done much for fishing around the Ames area.  Only places I've hit in the past are the bigger bodies (Ada Hayden, Brushy Creek, Hickory Grove, and Don Williams).  Haven't been lucky enough to meet anyone that knows of any farm ponds that are fishable.... I had the life back in NW Iowa.

Any other places me and my buddy should look at?  I realize most people don't like to share info, but figured it was worth a shot .

[sitandfish]

Well I fish Hickory quite a bit and do pretty well on a regular basis. Also Don Williams has a good population of 9-10 inch crappies this last year, and should be good ice fishing this winter. Another lake you should look at is Dakin’s Lake by Zearing…I did well there last year there. There are a few smaller ponds around that if you look hard enough you could find. Last year of the six places I fish I did the best at Dakin’s.

[cyfan964]

I JUST had a co worker tell me about Dakins, I'd never been there before.  I did have decent luck on crappie at Don Williams last year, hoping they are perfect eating size this winter!

I know it's sad, but I miss just slaying bluegill out of farm ponds.

[potatoe]

Good post - never heard of Dakin Lake. I wanted to try Don Williams but heard ice can be sketchy (not sure why)

Farm Ponds I have zero - wish I had a few

Big Creek is another one to try but can be tough fishing

[Bates]

potatoe

Don Williams ice is just like any other ice. This lake can be very good for crappies and gills. When the lake was lowered 5ish years ago lots of new structure was added and not all is on the IDNR map. I added a good sized pallet crib with the help of Andy and added cedar trees piles close to it. I'd post pics but don't know how on the phone.  They are located north of parking area by the swing sets, area with the concrete. When I lived in Ogden this was great lake to fish.

[potatoe]

Good info thanks, have not tried the lake. I am always nervous if I venture out first time unless I see others.

[CRistheonlyway]

I would like to fish on Dakins on Friday the 22nd.  Anyone know if the ice is safe near the north shore?

If not, i will let you know what i see tmrw.

[sitandfish]

My guess is that the ice is not good yet. Please report your findings!

[cyfan964]

Anxious to hear what you find!

[CRistheonlyway]

Was not enough ice on 12/22.  Will be this week for sure.

[ISU_Cake]

I would fish Hickory as much as you can now. They are gonna lower the water level and dredge the coves and channel starting in the spring.

[potatoe]

Fished Dakins today first time, had fun caught some gills and a few crappie - plenty of ice

good post - thanks for info had fun with my son today