Orleans, IA (KICD) — There will be no gill-netting for walleye eggs in the Iowa Great Lakes this year. DNR Biologist Kim Hawkins says it’s the first time in her career she remembers that happening.

As of last week, the incubators at the hatchery in Orleans were filled with eggs from Clear Lake and Storm Lake. Hawkins says those lakes were already at 45 degree – when fish began to spawn – while there was still ice covering the lakes in Dickinson County.

They WILL be netting for Musky broodstock during the daylight hours this week.
Since there will be no night-netting this year, the hatchery will not be open on weekends. The hatchery will be open for the public to view operations during normal business hours 8am to Noon and 1 to 4pm Monday through Friday.