Rathbun Lake is a popular recreational destination located in Appanoose County, Iowa. Rathbun Lake is a 11,000 acre Army Corps of Engineer reservoir located in Appanoose County. Facilities include Honey Creek State Park, six Corps of Engineer campgrounds, two marinas and multiple boat ramps. Rathbun Fish Hatchery is located below the lake dam. Iowa Department of Natural Resources biologists raise channel catfish, walleye and largemouth bass at the hatchery. Visitors are welcomed during normal working hours. The reservoir is known throughout the Midwest for outstanding crappie fishing. More than 167,000 crappies are harvested from the lake each year. Each spring soon after ice melt anglers experience some of the best channel catfish fishing found anywhere. Summer months, June through August, provide excellent walleye and white bass fishing.
The lower lake section extends from the dam into the the Honey Creek and Ham Creek arms and extends up the main lake to the Island View West Area. Specific locations in this area are good for crappie, walleye and white bass fishing. Lake water quality is always best in the lower lake portion. The mid lake section begins at the Island View area and extends to the Rolling Cove area. Anglers seek this area for walleye and white bass. Crappie Cove is a favorite area among crappie anglers. The upper lake area begins at Rolling Cove and extends above the flooded timber line. This is a favorite area for white bass and walleye fishing. The flooded timber area extends into the channels of the North and South Fork Rivers. Channel catfish fishing is excellent in this area. Most of the ice fishing occurs in the Atwell area of the North Fork.
Here’s some information about the lake, including its size, fishing, and boating opportunities:
Size and Features:
- Surface Area: Rathbun Lake has a surface area of approximately 2,300 acres, making it one of the largest lakes in Iowa.
- Shoreline: The lake has about 28 miles of shoreline.
- Depth: The lake has a maximum depth of around 50 feet.
Fishing:
- Fish Species: Rathbun Lake is home to a variety of fish species, including:
- Largemouth bass
- Crappie (black and white)
- Bluegill
- Walleye
- Catfish
- Muskellunge (muskie)
- Fishing Regulations: Anglers should be aware of Iowa fishing regulations and licenses. Specific limits may apply to different species, so it’s advisable to check with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for the latest regulations and updates.
- Fishing Facilities: The lake has several fishing docks and access points making it easier for anglers to find spots to fish.
Boating:
- Boating Opportunities: Rathbun Lake allows various boating activities, including powerboats, sailboats, kayaks, and canoes. The lake is popular for both leisure cruising and water sports.
- Marinas and Access Points: There are several boat ramps and marinas around the lake, providing access for boaters. Facilities may offer services such as boat rentals, fuel, and other amenities.
- Water Sports: In addition to fishing, Rathbun Lake is suitable for water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing.
Recreation:
- Camping: There are campgrounds around the lake that offer various amenities for visitors seeking a camping experience.
- Hiking and Wildlife Viewing: The area around the lake provides opportunities for hiking and enjoying nature, including opportunities for wildlife observation.
Safety:
Always ensure that you follow boating safety regulations, wear life jackets, and check weather conditions before heading out on the water.
For the latest updates on conditions, regulations, or specific events, it’s best to check with the Iowa DNR or local resources. Enjoy your time at Rathbun Lake!
If you're interested in specific real estate options, amenities, or activities around the lake, feel free to ask a Lake Real Estate Specialist!
