Rathbun Lake IA fishing forecast
Rathbun Lake IA is a freshwater fishing spot in Iowa, United States. Anglers here target Walleye, Crappie, Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass. The most productive months are typically April, May, June, July, August, September, October.
Current conditions
| Sea surface temp | 19.0 °C |
|---|---|
| Wind | 16 km/h from WSW |
| Pressure | 1016 hPa |
| Cloud cover | 100% |
Last updated Jun 19, 2026 (UTC). Conditions refresh through the day.
What the score means at Rathbun Lake IA
Rathbun Lake IA currently scores 65 out of 100 (Good). Water temperature is 19.0 °C. 6 forecast signals are active in this score. As a rough guide, a score above ~65 reflects conditions experienced anglers would typically fish; below ~45, consider waiting for a better window or targeting different species. The score blends live weather and ocean signals and can change through the day.
Bite windows
Best months for Rathbun Lake IA:
About this spot
Lakes have no tide, so target structure, drop-offs, and seasonal thermoclines where fish concentrate by depth and temperature.
What you can catch
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Sander vitreus
-
Pomoxis spp.
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Ictalurus punctatus
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Micropterus salmoides
Best months by species at Rathbun Lake IA
| WalleyeSander vitreus | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CrappiePomoxis spp. | ||||||||||||
| Channel CatfishIctalurus punctatus | ||||||||||||
| Largemouth BassMicropterus salmoides |
Months reflect typical catchability by species at this latitude; local seasons and closures apply.
Local regulations
Licensing:
- saltwater-recreational — residents Federal Recreational Fishing License may be required in addition to state license when fishing federal (EEZ) waters., non-residents Same as residents. Many states require their own license even in federal waters.
FishRadar regulations are summaries only. Federal and state waters rules overlap — always verify current federal and state agency rules before fishing.
Check Rathbun Lake IA before you go
Live scores update through the day. Get the full forecast, bite windows, and your own saved spots in the FishRadar app.
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Nearby spots
Explore 5 more fishing spots within 362 km of Rathbun Lake IA.
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Truman Lake MO
Lake of the Ozarks MO
Pomme de Terre Lake MO
Mississippi River MO
Lake Onalaska WI
Frequently asked questions
What fish can you catch at Rathbun Lake IA?
Anglers at Rathbun Lake IA target Walleye, Crappie, Channel Catfish, and Largemouth Bass.
When is the best time to fish Rathbun Lake IA?
The most productive months at Rathbun Lake IA are typically April, May, June, July, August, September, October.
What is the fishing forecast for Rathbun Lake IA right now?
Rathbun Lake IA currently scores 65 out of 100, based on live ocean and weather conditions — see the full breakdown on this page.
Do you need a licence to fish Rathbun Lake IA?
Fishing at Rathbun Lake IA follows the local rules for Iowa, United States. Bag limits, size limits, seasons and licence requirements are summarised in the Local regulations section above, with a link to the official authority.
Fishing guides for this spot
- How to Catch WalleyeHow to Catch CrappieBest Time of Day to Fish
Scores and conditions are forecasts for guidance only and can change rapidly. Always check local rules and current conditions, follow all fishing regulations, and prioritise your safety on the water.