Fishing regulations to be relaxed at Iowa’s Dunlap Pond

DUNLAP, Iowa — The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will relax the fishing regulations at Dunlap Pond starting July 1 to allow anglers to more freely harvest fish before the lake is completely drained as part of a plan to improve the lake’s depth, habitat, and water quality. 

Anglers with a valid fishing license may harvest any size or number of largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, and all other fish species from Dunlap Pond.

Any number of fishing poles or jug fishing will be 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. Nets, dynamite, poison, electric shocking devices, or any stupefying substances will not be allowed. It is illegal to sell fish or stock captured fish into public waters.  

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Relaxed fishing regulations for Dunlap Pond will remain in effect until October 1. Anglers may fish anywhere within the lake. DNR fisheries staff will collect game fish from the lake in late-summer and relocate them to other lakes in the area. 

The lake will be drained beginning this fall to allow for dredging, the construction of an in-lake sediment basin, and other habitat and water quality features.

This project will continue through 2026. Once the lake is drained, lake users should expect no access to the lake until construction is completed.

For more information contact Southwest Iowa DNR Fisheries, at 712-250-0010.