DeSoto Lake is open for fishing from April 15 - October 14. An Iowa or Nebraska fishing license is required for all individuals 16 years of age or older. Common fish in DeSoto Lake include crappie, largemouth bass, bluegill and catfish. Bowfishing is permitted for rough fish species only.
Trotlines, float lines and seining for bait are prohibited. No more than two rigs and two hooks per line may be used. Special regulations include bass, 15-inch minimum size limit, three-fish daily limit; northern pike, 24-inch minimum size limit, three-fish daily limit. Available species include northern pike, largemouth bass, walleye, bullhead, carp, bluegill and crappie.
Laws, rules, and regulations