Learn to Fish Resources

• Keep it simple.  Spinning (open face) reels are popular, but can be frustrating when you are learning. Spincast reels are closed-faced (the line is not exposed) and you can get started with a relatively inexpensive rig. 

• Bigger is not always better. Medium or heavy weight action rods and reels work for bass and catfish, but a light weight or medium light action rig is more versatile.  Longer rods cast farther, but shorter rods are easier to transport and work well for fishing from docks, boats, and kayaks. 

• Combinations (rods and reels together) are matched by their action, but if you buy them separately, make sure you match the action of the reel to the action to the rod (e.g., light action rod - light action reel).

• Most combinations (rods and reel) come pre-spooled with line.  If you buy one without line, use the suggested line weight printed on the reel. 

• Some rods are more sensitive than others - typically the more flexible at the tip, the better it detects bites.

• Terminal tackle is what you put on the line to catch the fish. It includes hooks, bobbers/floats, and lures.

• Match the tackle to the rod and reel  and the kind of fish you want to catch - light action rod and reel = smaller tackle (bluegill, crappie, trout) ; use medium or heavy weight equipment  with heavier tackle, (catfish , bass).

• Baits -there are a host of baits - visit a local tackle / bait shop and ask for recommendations, or ask other anglers where you are fishing what is working for them.

Absolute necessities:

1. Hooks - sizes based on the kinds of fish you want to catch, and the rod and reel you are using.

2. Bobber/floats - needed to suspend some baits or lures and to indicate bites; sizes should match the size of the hook/bait/lure.

3. Sinkers/weights - added weight helps you cast the bait or lure and sinks it; size/weight based on the tackle set up.  

4. Personal safety items: sunscreen, insect repellent and a basic first aid kit.

5. Needlenose pliers - to remove hooks, crimp weights on the line.

6. Clippers - fishing clippers usually come with a lanyard, but you can use fingernail clippers to cut line as well.

7. Fishing regulations - Hard copies are available at license vendors, or you can download these to your phone.

Really handy items:

1. Fishing towel or rag - always handy.

2. Lures - jigs, spoons, small spinners, and soft plastics are versatile. There are a ton of options, so start with a few based on the fish you want to catch.

3. Swivels - if you use lures that spin, these help prevent line twist. Match the size of the swivel to the size of the lure.

4. Fishing gloves - if you don't like to handle fish; they also help you grip the fish better and prevent pricks from fins.

5. Measuring tape - if you catch fish with length limits and want to keep them; be sure your fish is long enough. 

If you are age 16 or older you need a fishing license. If you are fishing for trout, you also need to purchase the trout privilege. There are some exceptions; see the Iowa Fishing Regulations. You can purchase your license online at GoOutdoorsIowa.com  or in person at license retailer near you.

The Fish Local community fishing map includes supports fishing opportunities in Iowa's metro areas and larger communities. Check out the interactive fishing location map at https://www.iowadnr.gov/Fishing/Fish-Local.

To find a comprehensive list of all types of fishing waters across the state, visit  https://www.iowadnr.gov/Fishing/Where-to-Fish or check out Iowa's interactive fishing atlas. 

There are slightly different tactics that are more successful for each king of fish.  Learn more at https://www.iowadnr.gov/Fishing/Fishing-Tips-How-Tos/How-to-Fish-For-.

Want to identify your catch? Iowa Fish Families has quick key to fish families and several Iowa fish species.

More detailed information on each species can be found at https://www.iowadnr.gov/Fishing/Iowa-Fish-Species. 

A few simple tips for making a child's first experiences enjoyable (and reducing your frustration):

• Leave your rod at home.

• Pick a fishing rod and reel that fits the child (think short).

• Find a spot close to home - so long as it has something to catch (two-inch bluegill still elicit squeals).

• Make sure there are bathrooms nearby.

• If possible, pick a spot with other activities available (attention spans are short, especially if the fish are not biting).

• Go when the weather is nice.

• Keep it short, an hour or two at most.

• Go with the flow - it's okay if children aren't that into fishing to start; sometimes the frogs, mud, or sticks on the ground are more appealing, but they are still enjoying the outdoors.

• Go when children are not tired; early morning fishing can be best in the summer; later in the afternoon when the water is warmer can be better in the spring or fall (after a nap).

• Take snacks and drinks - always.

If you do not plan to keep fish you catch, make sure you release them quickly and follow these simple steps to minimize harm:

• Land  it quickly. The less you handle, touch or hold the fish the better.

• Wet your hands before handling it to reduce the chances you will remove the fish's protective slime coating.

• Keep the fish in the water.

• Use Barbless hooks. They are easier to remove and reduce the time the fish is out of water. 

• Remove hooks quickly.
  Use needle-nose pliers to gently remove the hook from the fish’s mouth, backing i out the opposite way it went in.

• Cut the line  as close to the fish’s mouth as possible and leave the hook if it is deeply hooked. Most hooks dissolve or dislodge and trying to remove it can reduce survival.

• Have your camera ready if you want a picture. Whenever possible, take pictures of the fish while it’s still in the water. Hold it horizontally and support large fish with a hand under the belly.

• Keep fish fresh by immediately placing them on ice when the weather (and water) is warm.

• Clean fish and refrigerate as soon as possible. Eat fish within a few days, or freeze them. Frozen fish can be stored a few months.

• Check out our videos on cleaning and cooking fish.

Fishing (contour) maps show depth changes in the lake and habitat structures. Fish usually hang around structure and are at different depths depending on the season due to changes in water temperature.  

The DNR Fishing Atlas has online and printable maps to to help you find fish faster.

Check out the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation's interactive seasonal map to figure out where the fish are and the best times to fish by season.