Guide To Fishing At East Okoboji Lake

AKA: East Lake

Popular for vacations and weekend outings, East Okoboji Lake, is also a very popular fishing destination. This 1,800-acre lake is located in northwest Iowa, at Okoboji. This fertile fishery is outlined by nearly 17 miles of shoreline.

Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Boat Launch Ramps
Marinas
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Lake Video
Contact Info

East Okoboji Lake in Iowa is a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts, offering pristine waters and a wealth of angling opportunities. As one of the Iowa Great Lakes, it is known for its scenic beauty and abundant fish populations, attracting anglers from far and wide.

Anglers visiting East Okoboji Lake have the chance to target a variety of popular fish species. One of the most sought-after species is yellow perch, which provide excellent fishing opportunities throughout the year. These tasty panfish can be caught using small jigs, spinners, or live bait near weed beds, drop-offs, and submerged structures. Yellow perch offer anglers a chance to reel in good numbers and enjoy a rewarding fishing experience.

Walleye is another highly prized species in East Okoboji Lake. This lake boasts a thriving walleye fishery, with anglers having success using various techniques such as trolling with crankbaits, casting with jigs, or live bait rigging. Early morning and evening hours are often prime times to target walleye, particularly near rocky structures, points, or transition areas.

Bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass are also abundant in East Okoboji Lake. These species offer additional angling opportunities and provide excitement for anglers of all skill levels. Bluegill can be found near vegetation or submerged structures and can be caught using small jigs, worms, or crickets. Crappie can be targeted near submerged brush piles or along drop-offs using small jigs or minnows. Largemouth bass and smallmouth bass can be pursued near weed beds, docks, or rocky areas, with various lures and techniques proving effective.

Boating is a popular activity on East Okoboji Lake, and anglers can take advantage of the lake's boat ramps and marinas to access their favorite fishing spots. Whether it's a motorized boat, kayak, or canoe, boating provides anglers with the freedom to explore different areas of the lake and increase their chances of success.

Camping facilities near East Okoboji Lake provide anglers and outdoor enthusiasts with the opportunity to extend their fishing trips and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Campgrounds offer amenities such as RV hookups, tent sites, picnic areas, and walking trails, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for visitors.

In summary, East Okoboji Lake in Iowa is a haven for anglers, offering a variety of popular fish species such as yellow perch, walleye, bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass. With its boating options, camping facilities, and picturesque setting, East Okoboji Lake provides a complete fishing experience, inviting anglers to relax, unwind, and enjoy the abundant fishing opportunities in the heart of Iowa's Great Lakes region.

The lake offers access for fishing from the bank. Walleye, bass, crappie and musky garner a lot of attention from fishing enthusiasts. Other anglers enjoy fishing for catfish, bluegill, yellow bass, white bass, perch and northern pike. Ice fishing for perch, crappie and walleye is often very productive in winter. A marina, rental boats, three boat ramps, camping, bait, restaurants and stores are all at, or nearby, the lake.

What to fish for...

Fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, white bass, yellow bass, yellow perch, muskie and northern pike at East Okoboji Lake in Iowa.

Primary fish species residing in East Okoboji Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

East Okoboji Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Fishing Boat Rentals

Boat Okoboji Rental
Rentals: Pontoon boats
712 332-5627

Parks Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats
712 332-9904

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Hattie Elston State Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off US Highway 71, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Highway 9 Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, at the north end of the State Route 9 Bridge, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.