Rathbun Lake is Iowa's second-largest lake, a Corps of Engineers reservoir in south-central Iowa. The lake sits in gently rolling terrain and offers some of the state's best crappie and catfish fishing.

Crappie fishing is legendary, with the spring bite producing huge catches of slab-sized fish around standing timber and brush piles. Channel catfish are abundant and grow to impressive sizes. Walleye fishing has improved through stocking, and white bass runs in the tributaries provide fast spring action. Multiple Corps-maintained ramps provide access.

Nearest towns: Centerville, Moravia, Mystic

FAQ

How many boat ramps are on Rathbun Lake?

RampSeeker lists 6 boat ramps on Rathbun Lake.

What fish are in Rathbun Lake?

Rathbun Lake supports Crappie, Channel Catfish, Walleye, Largemouth Bass, White Bass, Bluegill.

Your Business Deserves a 24/7 Employee

CLETUS is the AI chat and voice agent that never sleeps, never calls in sick, and costs less than $1/day.

Start Free Trial →See How It Works

AI chat widget answers customers on your website

AI phone receptionist handles calls 24/7

Learns YOUR business in 5 minutes

Works for any industry — restaurants, shops, services

14-day free trial, no credit card needed

Try it now — click the chat bubble in the corner to see CLETUS in action →

Other Iowa Waters

Mississippi River (IA)

Dubuque

Big Spirit Lake

Spirit Lake

West Okoboji Lake

Arnolds Park

Saylorville Lake

Des Moines

Coralville Lake

Iowa City

Red Rock Lake

Pella