(Lewis) On June 15, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources relaxed the fishing regulations at Cold Springs Lake near Lewis.
DNR Fisheries biologist John Lorenzen says this allows anglers to more freely harvest fish before the lake is chemically renovated as part of a plan to improve the quality of angling for years to come. Lorenzen says the lake renovation project starts in August, so ahead of time, they want people to use the resources as much as they can before the work begins.
Meanwhile, Lorenzen is hosting a Public Meeting at Cold Springs on July 22 at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the renovation project.
Lorenzen says his presentation will take about 20 minutes to one-half hour, with time for questions following the presentation.
The DNR will lower the lake water level by approximately five feet starting August 1 to prepare for the renovation project aimed at improving the poor size structure of largemouth bass and bluegill and increasing near-shore habitat. Fish data collected annually for the past 10 years indicate poor bass health, with no bass exceeding the legal length limit. Bluegill data shows low catch rates of quality fish.
The fishery renovation is only part of a process to improve the lake’s fish population. Construction of in-lake fish habitat, primarily pea gravel spawning beds, will be built while water levels are down.
This project will continue through spring 2026. Starting August 1, lake users should expect limited access to the lake until water levels return to normal.
Relaxed fishing regulations for Cold Springs Lake will remain in effect until August 1. Anglers may fish anywhere within the lake. DNR fisheries staff will collect game fish from the lake in mid-summer and relocate them to other lakes in the area.
