Colo – The Iowa Department of Natural Resources has relaxed the fishing regulations at Hickory Grove Lake to allow anglers to more freely harvest game fish before the lake is renovated.
The lake is scheduled to be drained for restoration in early September. This is part of a larger project to improve the water quality and habitat in the lake.
Anglers with a valid fishing license are allowed to harvest any size or number of all species from Hickory Grove Lake. Any number of fishing poles or jug fishing is allowed. Anglers must remain in sight of these lines at all times, and follow all other fishing regulations and area rules. Trot lines will be allowed (name and address must be attached), however lines may not be set across the entire water body.
Liberalized fishing regulations for Hickory Grove Lake will be in effect from July 10 until the lake is fully drained. Specific regulation changes include:
- Removal of bag and length limit restrictions on largemouth bass.
- Removal of bag limit on channel catfish.
- Removal of bag limit on crappie and bluegill.
Nets, dynamite, trotlines, poison, electric shocking devices, or any stupefying substances are not allowed. It is illegal to sell fish or stock captured fish into public waters. The normal park hours of 5:00 a.m. until 10:30 p.m. will remain in effect.