The Johnston Parks Department has added evergreen trees to Terra Lake to improve visitors' chances of catching fish. Fish attractors have proven to be very successful in lakes and ponds that do not pose enough natural structure or cover for fish to thrive. Fish are attracted to the trees in search of forage and protection. The attractors are important in lakes and ponds that require additional structure for freshwater fish such as bass and bluegill.
Each habitat enhancement has limits and benefits that focus on a specific species, season, or fishing type. Common enhancements are tree piles, rock reefs, and mounds, spawning attracting areas, stake beds, benched jetties, bank hides, and others. For more information on fish habitat, visit the Iowa DNR website.