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Fishing is a time-honored and relished of traditions. Its proponents are many and the number of those that indulge in said activity as a hobby is larger even. That is why fishing has gained such popularity all across the entire globe. The United States is home to many states that in turn exceptional opportunities for fishing. One such state is that of Iowa. Iowa is a splendid state and has much to offer to visitors. The aspect of fishing is profoundly prolific here and that is why it receives countless visitors each year. These visitors take full advantage of what Iowa offers with regard to fishing.
If you are a fishing enthusiast and are looking for the next best thing in your hobby, then head over to Iowa. We have listed the best spots for fishing in Iowa below. Peruse and see for yourself as to which one agrees to your sense in preference:
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Since Oregon has such a wide range of natural features, you can Hunt, Fish, and try to catch SHellfish all in one state! You can either get these licenses individually or bundle them together to save money based on what you will be going for!
You can only have one rod / line by law, unless you purchase a license to use a second one, and fishers under 12 are exempt from this bylaw.
There are also various limitations on how many fish and shellfish you can catch which can be found on the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations website.
1. Lake MacBride
Lake MacBride is one of the best spots for fishing in the state of Iowa. It is located at a distance of miles in the West of Solon and is spread across 940 acres. Its maximum depth is 45 feet and it is teeming with different species of fish. This is a spot that you really should check out when you are in Iowa for fishing. You can also indulge in a bit of hiking, camping, animal watching, etc. as well while you are here.
Lake MacBride Fishing Tips
The lakeside spots at Lake MacBride are the best when it comes to fishing and baiting numerous catches. However, it can get crowded on weekends and holidays as it is a well known spot. We advise you to consider camping at the lake’s shore if possible. Not only will you be able to enjoy the tranquil night at the Lake’s scenic surroundings but you will also be able to snag a good lakeside spot before any hoarders get to it. You should also bulk up on effective lures and equipment at the adjoining fishing shop for a more enjoyable experience.
Types of Fish in Lake MacBride
You can find species like bigmouth buffalo, Flathead and channel catfish, crappie, green and red ear sunfish, black and yellow bullhead, northern pike, various types of bass, bluegill, etc. at Lake MacBride.
2. Lake Anita
Lake Anita is an excellent spot for fishing and is located in the Lake Anita State Park. It is situated in Cass County at a distance of about 1.5 miles from the south of Anita. It is spread across 159 acres and possesses a maximum depth of about 33.2 feet. This area is very picturesque and there are many picnic spots located across the area as well. You can also engage in other activities besides fishing as well when you are here like camping, beaching, hiking, jogging, etc.
Lake Anita Fishing Tips
If you are going to be fishing at Lake Anita, there are a few pointers that you can follow for the best results. First, try casting your line in the jetties and reefs located at the upper end of the lake. Most fish move there frequently and if you are looking to catch bluegills then target the brush piles. You can catch black crappie pretty well if you use a minnow as lure under small jigs or a bobber in the area surrounding reefs and jetties.
Types of Fish in Lake Anita
You can find Largemouth and smallmouth bass, black crappie, bluegills, etc. in a considerable amount at Lake Anita.
3. Clear Lake, Iowa
Clear Lake is located in Cerro Gordo County and is spread across about 3684 acres. It is a superb spot for fishing and attracts visitors from across the country in its peak days. It possesses a depth of 19.2 feet and is located near to Clear Lake and McIntosh Woods State Parks. This lake has got plenty of modern facilities as well like boat access, a jetty for fishing, areas for picnic, a station for cleaning fish, hiking trails, etc.
Clear Lake Fishing Tips
You should head over to the Fishing Jetty located at this lake. It is a popular spot for fishing at Clear Lake and the odds of you catching a greater number of fish are pretty good here. You should also consider renting out a boat and heading deeper into the lake. Most fish are gathered in this area and you can catch them easily from this area.
Types of Fish in Lake Eufaula
You can find species like yellow bass, channel catfish, crappies, bullhead, walleye, bluegill, perch, northern pike, muskies, Flathead catfish, etc. at Clear Lake.
4. Lake Rathbun
Lake Rathbun is a great spot for fishing in the state of Iowa. It is a part of Appanoose County and is located in the northwestern part of Centerville at a distance of 8 miles. It is spread across 11000 acres and evinces a maximum depth of 50 feet. There is a terrific pier located at this lake and many other facilities of the modern kind as well. These include awesome restrooms, shower areas, boat access, camping areas, convenience stores, etc.
Lake Rathbun Fishing Tips
If you want to fish effectively and productively at Lake Rathbun then you should try fishing from the banks. Target the upper banks frequently as many species converge here especially during the waning hours of the day. The chances for snagging larger catches are much greater if you venture into the deeper waters. Rent out a boat and try out your luck in the deeper areas of the lake as well.
Types of Fish in Lake Rathbun
You can find species like warmouth, white and hybrid striped bass, bluegill, walleye, Flathead catfish, black crappie, largemouth bass, etc. at Lake Rathbun.
5. Blackhawk Lake
Located in the Sac County, Blackhawk Lake is spectacular and offers much to fishing enthusiasts. It is one of the best spots for fishing in Iowa State and is part of the Blackhawk State Park. Blackhawk Lake is located relatively close to the town of Sac as it is at a distance of only about 8 miles from the latter. It is spread across an area of 92 acres and possesses a maximum depth of 15.1 feet. This lake has got an easily accessible pier, public restrooms, stations for cleaning fish, areas for excellent camping, a hard surface boat ramp, etc.
Blackhawk Lake Fishing Tips
The pier is an excellent spot for casting off at Blackhawk Lake. There is much fish that loiter in the waters below the pier. Use a minnow or any other appropriate lure to catch fish easily. The upper-shoreline is also a great spot to try out your luck at fishing.
Types of Fish in Broken Bow Lake
You can find species like crappie, walleye, largemouth and smallmouth bass, bluegill, perch, etc. at Blackhawk Lake.
6. Wapsipinicon River
The Wapsipinicon River is located in Jones County and is a popular area for fishing. It is located near to Central City just off Highway 13. It is located within Pinicon Ridge Park and possesses an area of 53 acres. This area is packed with many excellent facilities as well which include playgrounds, camping facilities, boat rentals, piers, etc. You should give this spot a chance when you are visiting Iowa for fishing.
Wapsipinicon River Fishing Tips
You really should consider renting out a boat when you are at Wapsipinicon River. You can head over to the inward area of the river where the fish are present in larger amounts. The chances of you snagging a larger and greater number of fish are much better in deeper water. The northern bank of the River also offers tremendous opportunities for catching a larger number of fish easily.
Types of Fish in Wapsipinicon River
You can find northern pike, walleye, smallmouth bass, perch, bluegill, etc. at Wapsipinicon River.
7. Upper Iowa River
Fishing at Upper Iowa River is always a treat and sufficiently satisfying in terms of results. The river is located in Winneshiek County and is found amid Winneshiek and Howard County. This stretch is spread across 79 acres and in its northeast is situated Cresco at a distance of about 8 miles. This is a great spot for fishing, one that you really should check out if you are in Iowa for fishing purposes.
Upper Iowa River Fishing Tips
The best part for fishing at Upper Iowa River is the river bank located to the south. Crappies are often biting in this area and there is no reason why you shouldn’t check it out. You can take advantage of boat rentals in the area and head over to the more fecund deeper waters that are teeming with different species.
Types of Fish in Upper Iowa River
You can find species like the famous trout, different types of bass, channel catfish, perch, crappie, pike, etc. at Upper Iowa River.
7. Turkey River
The Turkey River is located in Clayton County and is at a distance of about 6 miles from the northwestern part of Elkader at Big Spring Hatchery. This river offers excellent fishing opportunities to visitors. There are other amazing amenities to benefit from as well which include boat rides, well-maintained restrooms, convenience stores, etc. Turkey River offers sublime opportunities for indulging in Camping as well.
Turkey River Fishing Tips
The shore area of Turkey River is the best when it comes to fishing. The fish are practically biting in this area so it is best to resort to a traditional method for catching fish at an improved rate. You can try your luck in the eastern portion of the river to improve your chances of catching the larger fish.
Types of Fish in Turkey River
You can find Brooke Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, bluegill, perch, bass, etc. when you are fishing at the Turkey River.
Heading To Iowa To Catch Some Fish? Visit These Great Cities!
Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines is a city located within the State of Iowa. It is the largest city of the state and is the County seat of Polk County as well. The city is located near to the Des Moines River and is named after it as well. The city has a total population of 216,853 and the city is ranked 89th in terms of the Metropolitan population in the United States.
The City of Des Moines is fantastic as such that it has plenty to offer for visitors. The nightlife is boisterous and lively, the clubs are booming, and the hotels and restaurants are amazing as well. The fishing scene in Des Moines isn’t bleak either. Some of the best fishing can be done in Des Moines and the areas surrounding it. The following spots are just some of the many attractions in fishing that Des Moines offers to visitors:
City Campus Pond
Fort Des Moines Pond
Yellow Banks Park Pond
Thomas Mitchell Pond
Big Creek State Park
Copper Creek Lake
Iowa City, Iowa
Iowa City is located in Johnson County and is a prominent city in the State of Iowa. It is the seat of its county and is also famous for being the hometown of the University of Iowa. The population of the city is about 72,290 which makes it the 5th largest city in the state of Iowa.
Iowa is home to many excellent areas and spots for recreation and relaxation. The urban area is a veritable metropolis that evinces all the modern facilities that you might expect. There are spectacular restaurants, hotels, bars, etc. in the city. However, the main attraction that this city offers is in fishing. The areas around Iowa City are full of spots where fishing enthusiasts can cut loose and enjoy themselves. Some of these spots are as follows:
Lake MacBride State Park
Wildcat Den State Park
Oakland Mills State Park
Big Hollow Recreation Area
Wapsipinicon State Park
Wrapping up the Best Fishing Spots in Iowa
We hope our article on the best fishing spots in Iowa will help you narrow down your choices for your next trip! Whether you go check out the man made marvel Lake Rathbun, or take in all of Natures beauty at Blackhawk Lake, we think you can see some amazing sights, make some long lasting memories, and most important of all, catch some big fish in Iowa!