What Easter Lake Offers Anglers

Easter Lake sits just south of Des Moines and holds a solid population of walleye, channel catfish, and largemouth bass in roughly 167 acres of water. The lake is shallow—average depth around 8 feet, with a maximum near 20 feet—which means it warms quickly in spring and can be productive year-round if you know where to look. The shallow structure also makes it a good training ground if you're learning to read depth changes and work shallow-water presentations.

The walleye bite here is strongest in spring and fall, when cooler water pushes fish into the shallower flats and along the dam. Summer walleye fishing is possible but tougher; they tend to move deeper and tighter to cover during the heat. Catfish fishing is more forgiving—they bite through the warm months and into fall, and they're less fussy about time of day than walleye are.

Key Takeaways

  • Easter Lake holds walleye, channel catfish, and largemouth bass in shallow water averaging 8 feet deep, making it accessible to anglers of all skill levels.
  • Spring and fall walleye fishing is best; summer requires deeper presentations and more patience, but catfish bite reliably through warm weather.
  • The lake has a public boat ramp, parking, and picnic facilities managed by Des Moines Parks and Recreation.
  • Live bait—shiners, crawlers, and minnows—works well for walleye; chicken liver and stink baits are standard for catfish.

Spring and Fall Walleye Patterns

When water temperatures are in the 50s and 60s, walleye move shallow and become predictable. Focus on the dam area and the flats that slope gradually from the shoreline. A 1/8-ounce jig tipped with a live minnow or a small soft plastic works well in 4 to 8 feet of water. Cast parallel to depth changes rather than straight out from the bank; walleye often hold on the edge where shallow water meets slightly deeper structure.

Early morning and evening are prime times, but don't rule out midday fishing—shallow lakes like Easter can hold active fish throughout the day if cloud cover is present. Slow your retrieve and let the jig do most of the work; walleye in shallow water are often aggressive but still respond better to a subtle presentation than a fast one.

Summer Fishing and Deeper Water

By mid-June, walleye retreat to the deepest holes and the thickest weed growth. The basin near the dam and any deeper pockets on the main lake body become your target zones. Switch to live bait rigs or slip sinkers that let you fish 12 to 18 feet deep while keeping your bait near bottom. Nighttime fishing becomes more productive in summer; many anglers fish from the dam or from a boat anchored in the deeper water after dark.

Catfish, by contrast, are easier in summer. They don't mind the heat and will bite throughout the day and night. Fish the deeper holes with chicken liver, cut shad, or commercial stink bait on a simple three-way rig or slip sinker setup. Catfish are less line-shy than walleye, so heavier tackle and thicker line are fine.

Boat Ramp and Access

Easter Lake has a public boat ramp managed by Des Moines Parks and Recreation. The ramp is concrete and in reasonable condition, though it can get crowded on weekends during spring and early summer. There is parking for vehicles and trailers, and the park has picnic areas, restrooms, and a small shelter if you want to make a day of it beyond fishing.

The ramp fee varies; check the Des Moines Parks and Recreation website or call ahead to confirm current rates and hours. The lake is open year-round, but winter access depends on ice conditions and park maintenance schedules.

Tackle and Bait Choices

For walleye, bring a light spinning rod (6 to 7 feet) spooled with 6- to 8-pound monofilament or braided line. Jigs in 1/8- to 1/4-ounce sizes, small crankbaits, and soft plastics in natural colors (white, chartreuse, brown) all work. Live shiners or fathead minnows are your best bait option; crawlers work but are less consistent on this lake.

For catfish, a medium-heavy rod and 12- to 15-pound line are standard. You don't need anything fancy—a simple slip sinker rig or three-way rig with chicken liver, cut shad, or prepared stink bait will catch fish. Many anglers fish two rods (where legal) and let the catfish come to them while they work for walleye on a third rod.

Seasonal Timing and Weather

Easter Lake fishes best in April through May and again in September through October. Spring is the most reliable time for walleye; the water is cool, fish are active after winter, and they're concentrated in predictable shallow areas. Fall offers a second strong bite as water cools again, though the season is shorter.

Summer is slowest for walleye but remains decent for catfish. Winter fishing is possible but requires ice safety knowledge and attention to park closures. Check local weather and water temperature before you go; a sudden cold front in spring or a warm spell in fall can shift the bite significantly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Easter Lake?

No. The shoreline holds fish, especially in spring and fall, and you can wade or fish from the bank around the dam and the flats. A boat gives you access to deeper summer structure and lets you cover more water, but it's not required to catch walleye or catfish here.

What's the best time of day to fish for walleye?

Early morning and evening are most productive, especially in spring and fall. In summer, fish at night or during low-light conditions. Shallow lakes like Easter can hold active fish during the day if the sky is overcast, but dawn and dusk are your safest bet.

Can I keep the fish I catch?

Yes, within Iowa's statewide limits. Check the current Iowa Department of Natural Resources fishing regulations for walleye, catfish, and bass size and bag limits before you fish. Limits change year to year, so verify before you go.

Is there a fee to fish Easter Lake?

Fishing itself is free with a valid Iowa fishing license. There is a boat ramp fee if you launch a boat; the amount varies and should be confirmed with Des Moines Parks and Recreation. A fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older.

What should I do if I'm new to walleye fishing?

Start in spring when walleye are shallow and predictable. Use a simple jig-and-minnow setup, fish the dam and nearby flats in 4 to 8 feet of water, and focus on early morning. Ask local bait shops near Des Moines for recent reports; they often know what's working and can point you toward the most active areas.