Rathbun Lake
Reservoir, Appanoose County (Chariton River). Iowa, United States.
40.8689, -92.9979 — View on the map
- Area
- 4,452 ha
- Managed by
- Iowa Department of Natural Resources (fisheries)
- Permit required
- Iowa fishing license (Iowa DNR)
- Step-free access
- yes
- Boat launch
- yes
Useful gear for this area
Chosen from the species and size limits regulated in this area.
Responsible gearBacklit Digital Hanging Scale 50 kgTo check the minimum size: Largemouth bass 38.1 cm here.
€32.90£28.90Not shipped to the United States
Responsible gearThree-claw fish holding clampFor: northern pike, zander, walleye
€24.90£12.90Not shipped to the United States
Treble Hook Covers, Pack of 150For: northern pike, zander, walleye
€26.90£12.90Not shipped to the United States
Species present
Channel catfishIctalurus punctatus
Largemouth bassMicropterus salmoides
WalleyeSander vitreusIowa DNR Fish Iowa lake search (species list)
Local rules
Location (Iowa DNR): 8 miles northwest of Centerville. Other species listed: Hybrid Striped Bass, Wiper. Facilities: Accessible Facilities, Boat Access, Fishing Jetty, Hard Surface Boat Ramp, Picnic Area, Playground, Restrooms, Trails, Beach, Camping, Fish Cleaning Station, Boat Rental.
Area rules (Iowa) for these species
| Black bass (largemouth, smallmouth, spotted) – public lakes | 38.1 cm |
| Black bass – interior streams and river impoundments | 30.5 cm |
| Walleye – Mississippi River pools | 38.1 cm |
Access
Accessible Facilities, Boat Access, Fishing Jetty, Hard Surface Boat Ramp, Picnic Area, Playground, Restrooms, Trails, Beach, Camping, Fish Cleaning Station, Boat Rental
Official sources
- Fish Iowa — Rathbun Reservoir (Iowa DNR) (accessed on 23 September 2026)
- Fish Iowa lake search — Iowa DNR (accessed on 23 September 2026)