Iowans will soon have the chance to reel in some springtime fun as the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) begins stocking rainbow trout in 12 community lakes across the state in March and April.
Between 1,000 and 2,000 rainbow trout will be released at each location as part of the DNR’s popular cool weather trout program. The annual stockings are designed to provide a convenient, family-friendly fishing opportunity close to home — especially for those who may not travel to northeast Iowa for trout fishing.
The spring community trout stockings are a perfect opportunity to introduce kids to fishing. Whether it’s a small hook with a nightcrawler or kernel of corn under a bobber, or casting a simple spinner like a Panther Martin or Mepps, anglers of all experience levels can join in the fun.
Several locations will also host special family-friendly events to help anglers learn how to catch trout and enjoy the outdoors, including:
March 16
Terra Lake, Johnston – Noon
March 19
Jefferson County Park New Pond, Fairfield – 10 a.m.
Wilson Lake, Donnellson – Noon
Lake of the Hills, Davenport – 10 a.m.
March 20
Liberty Centre Pond, North Liberty – 10:30 a.m.
North Ridge Park Pond, Coralville – 11:30 a.m.
March 21
Ottumwa Park Pond, Ottumwa – 11 a.m.
Noelridge Park Pond, Cedar Rapids – 9:30 a.m.
Ely Pond, Ely – 11 a.m.
April 24
Sand Lake, Marshalltown – Noon
April 25
North Prairie Lake, Cedar Falls – 10 a.m.
Heritage Pond, Dubuque – 10:30 a.m.
The community trout program is supported by the sale of trout fees. Anglers must have a valid Iowa 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 may fish for trout with a properly licensed adult. However, the adult and child may keep only one combined daily limit unless the child also purchases a trout fee, which allows them to keep their own daily limit.
Once anglers purchase a trout fee, they can fish for trout year-round at any community trout lake or designated trout stream in northeast Iowa.
For more information about trout fishing in Iowa, visit the DNR’s website at www.iowadnr.gov/trout.
