I-Bass – West Lake Okoboji

On Saturday, May 2, 2026, the Iowa-based I-BASS tournament series heads north to one of the most iconic fisheries in the state—West Lake Okoboji—and the anticipation is going to be sky-high. This isn’t just another stop. Okoboji has a reputation, and when tournament boats line up here in early May, it feels like anything can happen.

West Okoboji Lake is a true big-water test: roughly 3,847 acres with a maximum depth around 138.9 feet (making it the deepest lake in Iowa), and no motoring restrictions listed by the Iowa DNR. Iowa DNR Programs+1 That size and depth create a playground of possibilities—shallow spring movement, deeper edges, and endless “do we run or do we camp?” decisions that separate solid finishes from trophies.

The lake is also built for a full-on event day, with amenities like boat access, a hard-surface boat ramp, and a fish cleaning station, plus plenty of surrounding parks and recreation areas that give the whole place a big-stage feel. Iowa DNR Programs

By May 2, expect the field to be locked in—because on West O, you’re not just chasing a limit. You’re chasing a statement.