Whether wading into cool trout streams or trolling well-stocked lakes, the best fishing spots get you closer to your goals. We’ve asked an accomplished Iowa angler to suggest some favorite locations.
Meet the Expert: Mike Steuck
Mike recently retired from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Fisheries Bureau after over 35 years working on Iowa’s rivers and streams. A native of the Driftless Area, Mike is an avid angler and loves targeting trout, walleye and smallmouth bass. Recognized for his outstanding contribution to the fisheries profession by the Iowa Chapter of the American Fisheries Society, he also volunteers on the Iowa Coldwater Conservancy Board.
How to get started
- Simple pole and reel with a light (6-pound test) line.
- Small hook (size 4 or 6) with a small split shot crimped 4-6 inches above the hook.
- Bait for the hook. Try small redworms, night crawlers wax worms, or other bait.
- Small bobber.
- Fishing license for Iowa residents 16 years old or older. (Licenses required for non-residents 14 years old or older.) Anglers need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. The daily limit is five trout per licensed angler with a possession limit of 10. Children age 15 or younger can fish for trout with a properly licensed adult, but they must limit their catch to one daily limit. The child can purchase a trout fee which will allow them to keep their own limit. Visit iowadnr.gov for more information on fishing licenses and fishing regulations and laws.
Fun Fishing Dates
What’s more al-lure-ing than fishing in romantic company? Reel in a catch at one of these cozy spots:
Yellow River State Forest
Jester Park
Lake Macbride
Place to Take Kids Fishing in Iowa
Fishing offers youth a rewarding lesson in patience and persistence. Spend some screen-free time on family-friendly fishing trips at these top spots:
Big Spring Fish Hatchery Kid's Fishing Pond
Decorah Fish Hatchery
Rathbun Fish Hatchery
Stone State Park
Backbone State Park
Best Places in Iowa to Fish from a Boat
Go beyond the banks and jetties to fish deeper waters in these spots: