The upper section of the Maquoketa River can provide Iowa trout anglers
with a special fishing experience. This stream's large size and length
seperate it from most trout waters within the state. The Maquoketa River's
trout water begins at Joy Springs Park and ends where the Maquoketa River
becomes impounded by the Backbone Lake dam. This area receives unannounced
bi-weekly stockings of brown, rainbow, and brook trout from April through
October, as well as annual stocking of fingerling brown and rainbow trout.
Anglers should note that all of the streambank in this
area is under private ownership, with the exception of Joy
Springs Park and Backbone Park. The landowners
on this section of stream have been kind enough to allow public fishing
access, so respect their property by crossing fences at the stiles provided
and asking questions when in doubt.
