What You'll Find at Hickory Grove Lake

Hickory Grove Lake is a small public lake in Madison County, Iowa, covering roughly 40 acres and sitting near the town of Winterset. The lake holds a solid population of bluegill, crappie, and largemouth bass, making it a reliable choice for panfish anglers and anyone looking for a less crowded alternative to Iowa's bigger lakes. The water is relatively shallow, which keeps it productive for shore fishing and small boats.

The lake draws fewer visitors than state parks farther north, so you'll often find open water and uncrowded banks. That quiet makes it worth the drive if you're based in central Iowa and want a half-day outing without the noise and boat traffic of more famous destinations. The surrounding area is rural and pastoral — expect farmland, not resort development.

Key Takeaways

  • Hickory Grove Lake holds bluegill, crappie, and largemouth bass in roughly 40 acres of shallow water suitable for shore and small-boat fishing.
  • The lake is managed by Madison County and open to the public year-round, with a boat ramp and parking area near the dam.
  • Spring and fall are the most productive seasons for panfish; summer can be slow during the heat of midday.
  • Iowa fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 and older, and you must follow state regulations on species limits and tackle.

Access, Parking, and Facilities

Hickory Grove Lake has a public boat ramp on the north side near the dam, with a small parking area for vehicles and trailers. The ramp is gravel and suitable for launching small boats, canoes, and kayaks. There is no fee to launch, and no permit is required — it's a straightforward public access point.

Shore fishing is possible along the dam and at a few spots around the perimeter, though much of the shoreline is private property. Your best bet for bank access is near the ramp and parking area. There are no on-site facilities like restrooms or concessions, so bring water and supplies from Winterset, which is about 10 minutes away by car.

Seasons and What to Expect

Spring (April through May) is prime time for crappie and bluegill. As water temperatures climb into the 50s and 60s, fish move into shallower areas to spawn, and they bite aggressively on small jigs, live minnows, and panfish flies. Largemouth bass also become active in late spring as they prepare to spawn.

Summer (June through August) can be productive early and late in the day, but midday heat often pushes fish into deeper water or heavy cover. Bluegill and crappie bite best at dawn and dusk. Bass fishing improves in the evening and at night. The shallow nature of the lake means it warms quickly, so focus on early morning or bring a headlamp for evening sessions.

Fall (September through October) brings another strong bite as water cools and fish feed heavily before winter. Panfish and bass are active throughout the day, and this is often the most consistent season for numbers and size. October is particularly good.

Winter (November through March) is quiet. The lake does not typically freeze solid enough for safe ice fishing, and open-water fishing is slow. Most anglers skip this season or fish only on the warmest days.

Fish Species and Tactics

Bluegill are the most abundant species and the easiest to catch. They school in shallow water and respond to small jigs (1/32 to 1/16 ounce), live crickets, waxworms, and small spinners. Fish the shallows near the dam and along the north shore in spring and fall. In summer, move to slightly deeper water or fish early morning.

Crappie (both black and white) are present and can reach 10 inches. They prefer live minnows or small jigs fished around any available structure — fallen trees, brush, or the deeper edges of the lake. Spring spawning season is the most reliable time to find them in shallow water. A small boat or kayak gives you access to more productive areas than shore fishing alone.

Largemouth bass are present but not abundant. They respond to soft plastics, small crankbaits, and topwater lures in early morning or evening. The shallow water and limited structure mean bass fishing is not the lake's strongest draw, but a few quality fish are caught each season. Focus on the deeper holes and any submerged logs.

Regulations and Licensing

Iowa requires a fishing license for anyone 16 years old and older. You can purchase a license online through the Iowa Department of Natural Resources website, at sporting goods stores, or at many bait shops in Winterset. A one-day license costs less than a full-season license if you're making a single trip.

Current state limits are 25 bluegill per day, 25 crappie per day, and 5 largemouth bass per day (with only one over 15 inches). These limits are subject to change, so check the Iowa DNR website or the current fishing guide before you go. No special permits or tags are required for Hickory Grove Lake itself.

Gear and Bait Recommendations

For panfish, bring a light spinning rod (5 to 6 feet) with 4- to 6-pound test line. A small tackle box with 1/32 and 1/16 ounce jigs in white, yellow, and black, plus a container of live waxworms or crickets, will cover most situations. A small net makes landing bluegill easier and faster.

For bass, a medium spinning rod with 8- to 10-pound test is adequate. Soft plastics (4 to 6 inches), small crankbaits, and topwater plugs are your best choices. Live shiners or shad work if you want to fish with bait, though they're less common on this lake than on larger reservoirs.

Bait is available at tackle shops in Winterset. If you're visiting on a weekend, call ahead to confirm hours. Many anglers also bring their own crickets or waxworms from home to save money and ensure freshness.

When to Fish and How to Plan Your Trip

A half-day trip works well for Hickory Grove Lake. Plan to arrive at dawn or mid-afternoon and fish until dusk. The short drive from Winterset means you can make it a morning outing and be home by early afternoon, or an evening trip that runs into dark. Spring and fall weekdays are least crowded; weekends draw more anglers, especially during crappie season.

Check the weather before you go — wind can make the shallow water choppy and uncomfortable for small boats. Calm mornings in spring and fall are ideal. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water even if you're only planning a few hours. The lake has no shade, and the sun reflects hard off the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish from shore at Hickory Grove Lake?

Yes, but access is limited. The area near the boat ramp and dam allows shore fishing, but much of the shoreline is private. You'll have better luck and more space if you launch a small boat or kayak. If you're shore fishing, arrive early to claim a spot.

What's the best time of day to fish here?

Spring and fall: fish all day, with peaks at dawn and dusk. Summer: fish early morning (before 9 a.m.) and evening (after 6 p.m.). Winter is generally slow. Overcast days are often better than bright sunny days because fish are more active in lower light.

Do I need a boat to fish Hickory Grove Lake?

No, but a boat or kayak gives you access to more water and deeper structure where crappie and bass hold. Shore fishing for bluegill is productive near the dam and ramp. If you don't have a boat, focus on panfish in spring and fall when they're shallow.

How far is Hickory Grove Lake from Des Moines?

About 30 miles southwest. Winterset is roughly 45 minutes to an hour from downtown Des Moines, depending on traffic. It's a reasonable drive for a half-day outing or a morning trip before heading elsewhere in Madison County.

Are there other lakes nearby if Hickory Grove is too crowded?

Yes. Lake Icaria and Ledges Lake are both in Madison County and offer similar panfish and bass fishing. Ledges Lake is slightly larger and more developed. If you're willing to drive 30 to 45 minutes, you'll find bigger lakes in surrounding counties with more amenities and structure.