Quick Facts

• Location: Council Bluffs, Iowa 51501
• Pier Type: Freshwater fishing pier
• Water Type: Lake Manawa
• Access: Public recreation-area fishing access; posted regulations apply
• Fishing License: Iowa fishing license requirements apply
• Best For: Catfish, crappie, bass and panfish
• Best Time to Fish: Spring through fall
• Common Species Nearby: Channel catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, bluegill and other lake species
• Tackle Style: Light to medium freshwater tackle
• Fishing Style: Pier and shore fishing
• Night Fishing: Check current park access hours
• Amenities: Lake Manawa recreation opportunities nearby

Overview

Lake Manawa Fishing Pier provides shore-based access to Lake Manawa in Council Bluffs, one of the area’s major urban recreation lakes. The pier gives anglers a stable platform for fishing beyond the immediate shoreline and is a useful alternative for visitors without boats.

Lake Manawa supports a varied warm-water fishery, giving anglers opportunities for catfish, crappie, bass, bluegill, and other species. Seasonal changes in vegetation, water temperature, and fish location can influence fishing from the pier.

Fishing Tips

Crappie and bluegill anglers can work small jigs or bait around the pier at different depths. Bass anglers can cast soft plastics and moving lures toward vegetation and other shoreline structure.

For channel catfish, try an appropriate bottom rig in deeper water. Dawn and evening are good periods to explore during hot summer weather.

Bottom Line

A convenient Council Bluffs fishing pier providing access to the diverse freshwater fishery of Lake Manawa.