Saylorville Lake

Saylorville Lake

Polk City, Polk County, IA
8mi²
259.00ft
Directions
Lake Information

Nestled along the scenic Des Moines River in Polk County, Iowa, lies the enchanting Saylorville Lake, a reservoir that beckons both nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers to its pristine shores. Situated just 11 miles upstream from the vibrant city of Des Moines, this 4,970-acre reservoir holds a pivotal position, serving as a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling urban landscape. With a maximum depth of 44 feet, Saylorville Lake provides a diverse range of recreational opportunities and natural wonders for those who seek solace and adventure in equal measure. Saylorville Lake is not only a testament to the region's natural beauty but also a vital resource for water supply and flood control. Its strategic location, 214 miles from the mouth of the Des Moines River at the mighty Mississippi River, underscores its critical role in mitigating the risks of flooding and ensuring a stable water supply for the surrounding communities. This reservoir is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a plethora of recreational activities that cater to all ages and interests. From boating and fishing to hiking and picnicking, Saylorville Lake presents an array of options for visitors to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. Anglers are particularly drawn to the lake's rich diversity of fish species, including Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, Northern Pike, Catfish, and more. The scenic beauty of Saylorville Lake extends to its picturesque shoreline, adorned with lush greenery and abundant wildlife. Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape for reflection or an active day of adventure, this reservoir invites you to explore the wonders of Polk County, Iowa. Saylorville Lake stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of nature and urban life, offering a serene retreat where the beauty of the natural world can be fully appreciated, just moments away from the vibrant city of Des Moines.

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Current Conditions

55°F°
Feels like 53°F°
Cloudy
Today's High
63°F°
Today's Low
44°F°

Water Temperature

52°F
Updated: (May 2)
Sign in to contribute temps.

Current water temperature for Saylorville Lake is 52°F.

Current Snapshot

Wind4 mph NW (Gust 7 mph)
Pressure
29.94 inHg
Visibility13 mi
Humidity72%
Cloud Cover96%

Forecast: Saturday, May 3

Day 1 of 9

Hourly Insights

7 AM
44°F°
10 AM
49°F°
1 PM
58°F°
4 PM
63°F°

Temperature

High
63°F°
Low
44°F°

Precipitation

Chance0%
Amount0.00"
Typeclear

Wind

6mph
Avg Speed
Gusts up to
16mph
CalmModerateStrong
Max Speed11 mph

Sun, Moon & UV

Sunrise11:08 AM
Sunset1:15 AM
Moon PhasewaxingCrescent
Max UV Index6 (High)

Solunar Fishing Forecast

Action Rating
2/5

Todays action is rated a 2 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)

Major Times (Best)

11:37 PM - 2:07 AM

10:40 AM - 1:10 PM

Minor Times (Good)

3:50 PM - 5:20 PM

6:39 AM - 8:09 AM

Outlook for Saturday at Saylorville Lake

Expect temperatures ranging from 44°F to 63°F. Skies look partly cloudy with little chance of precipitation. Winds will be averaging 6 mph, with potential gusts reaching up to 16 mph. The maximum UV index will be 6 (High), so plan sun protection accordingly. For anglers, today's fishing action is rated 2/5 (Todays action is rated a 2 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). Look for the best bite times during the major periods around 11:37 PM and 10:40 AM, or try the minor windows near 3:50 PM and 6:39 AM for potential early morning or evening action. Check back for the latest conditions and forecasts for Saylorville Lake.

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May 2nd 2025

Lake Information

Elevation
259 ft
Area
8 mi²
Coordinates
41.752, -93.700

Weather Forecast

Saturday

63°F
44°F

Sunday

69°F
42°F

Monday

70°F
47°F

Tuesday

75°F
49°F

Wednesday

70°F
52°F

Thursday

64°F
49°F

Friday

70°F
47°F

Saturday

77°F
53°F

Sunday

79°F
55°F
Saturday - 5/3/2025
63°F
44°F
12am
47°F
52°F
30.00 hPa
6 mph
NNW
G: 9 mph
2am
46°F
52°F
30.01 hPa
4 mph
NW
G: 6 mph
4am
46°F
52°F
30.01 hPa
4 mph
NW
G: 9 mph
6am
44°F
52°F
30.03 hPa
6 mph
NW
G: 9 mph
8am
45°F
52°F
30.06 hPa
6 mph
NW
G: 11 mph
10am
49°F
52°F
30.06 hPa
7 mph
NNW
G: 13 mph
12pm
55°F
52°F
30.05 hPa
10 mph
N
G: 15 mph
2pm
60°F
52°F
30.06 hPa
10 mph
N
G: 15 mph
4pm
63°F
52°F
30.03 hPa
7 mph
NNE
G: 11 mph
6pm
63°F
52°F
30.02 hPa
6 mph
NNE
G: 9 mph
8pm
58°F
52°F
30.01 hPa
4 mph
ENE
G: 7 mph
10pm
52°F
52°F
30.05 hPa
3 mph
ENE
G: 5 mph

Water Temperature History

Trends for Saylorville Lake

Current Temp

Sign in to view

Latest recorded surface temperature.

Lowest in Period

33°F

On Dec 8

Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.

Average in Period

53°F

Typical temp during the Last 12 Months.

Temperature Trend: Last 12 Months

Surface temperature over the selected period.

Key Observations (Last 12 Months)

  • Warmest avg: July (80°F).
  • Coolest avg: December (34°F).
  • Rapid warming often occurs: April → May (+16°F).
  • Sharpest cooling trend: October → November (-14°F).

Weather Forecast

Wind speed and pressure trends

Hourly Wind Forecast

12am1am2am3am4am5am6am7am8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm7pm8pm9pm10pm11pm0481216

Wind Direction

332°

Pressure

1016 mb

Cloud Cover

92%

Visibility

13 miles

Daily Pressure Forecast

SatSunMonTueWedThuFriSatSun0.008.8617.7226.5835.44
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Frequently Asked Questions About Saylorville Lake

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