It’s easy to add fishing to any outdoor outing this summer. Keep tackle in your vehicle so you can wet a line-wherever, whenever this summer.
“Make sure a rod and reel are part of any weekend plans,” said Tyler Stubbs, Iowa DNR community fisheries biologist. “Time spent with friends and family is priceless—especially when it involves fishing.”
Fishing is fun, inexpensive and a great activity for all ages. Enjoy Iowa’s outdoors and spend some time fishing this summer at hundreds of Iowa lakes, thousands of miles of rivers or a neighborhood pond. Get tips for taking kids fishing and catching crappie and bluegills on the DNR website at www.iowadnr.gov/readytofish.
“Many newer athletic complexes have fishing areas nearby,” explains Stubbs. “The excitement doesn't have to end when you step off the field. Pack the tackle and enjoy some relaxation by the water after the game.”
The Spring 2025 Iowa Outdoors magazine includes a list of great fishing spots, many in areas known for other activities and events where you can take the tackle along.
Anyone catching their first fish is encouraged to take a photo of their catch and upload it to receive the DNR’s first fish certificate of accomplishment. Apply for a first fish certificate online at www.iowadnr.gov/firstfish
Get hooked on fishing during free fishing weekend June 6-8
Iowa residents can try fishing without buying a license on June 6, 7 and 8 as part of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) free fishing weekend. All other regulations remain in place.
Keep the fun going all summer long by buying a fishing license. It’s easy to buy a fishing license with the DNR Go Outdoors Iowa online licensing system at https://license.gooutdoorsiowa.com/Licensing/CustomerLookup.aspx. You can download the public Go Outdoors IA mobile app for iPhone and Android devices to buy and store your fishing license, so you will always have access to your license no matter where you are. Yearly, seven-day, or 24-hour fishing licenses are available.