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Odessa Wildlife Area Boat Ramp

This boat ramp provides access to Lake Odessa, a 6,465-acre backwater habitat managed by the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers and jointly managed by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Iowa DNR.

The location is ideal for both fishing and paddling, with excellent opportunities for catfish, crappie, and bluegill, plus several marked water trails for paddlers exploring the complex system of sloughs and ponds.

Water levels fluctuate seasonally—typically highest in spring and fall, lowest in mid-summer through early fall—so check current conditions before visiting.


Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

Check the forecast at Odessa Wildlife Area Boat Ramp before you go paddling.

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Iowa licenses and regulations

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