Family Fishing

Topics:

Fishing
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Who Needs a Fishing License?

All anglers 16 years and older must have a fishing license to fish Iowa waters. Anglers under the age of 16 may fish Iowa waters without a fishing license and may fish for and keep their own limit of fish, except when fishing for trout they must share their limit with a licensed adult or buy their own trout fee to keep their own limit of trout.

Yearly, seven-day, or 24-hour fishing licenses are available. Licenses are sold at several locations or online.

There are limits on the size and/or number of fish you can catch at one time for some species. Find out more about Iowa Fishing Regulations.

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Safety Tips for Family Fishing

  • Bring a basic first aid kit with sterile bandages, tape, antiseptic, band aids, aspirin, scissors, wire cutters, tweezers, analgesic cream, sunscreen, and insect repellant.
  • A wide brim hat and sunglasses will keep the sun out of your child’s eyes and off his forehead. Avoid fishing in the middle of the day.
  • Life jackets are strongly recommended for children fishing around deep or fast-moving water. Make sure the life jacket fits your child snugly and won’t ride up around their face.
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Family Fishing Checklist

A fun, and successful, fishing trip starts with:

  • bobbers
  • camera
  • cooler/ice
  • drinks
  • fishing license
  • fishing rods, youth
  • first aid kit
  • insect repellent
  • life jackets
  • snacks
  • sunglasses
  • sunscreen
  • wet wipes
  • worms
Fish Fish program logo
First Fish!

Catch a memory when your favorite young angler hooks their first fish! Get a certificate of accomplishment from the Iowa DNR.

Explore the Master Angler & First Fish programs
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Give Your Kids BIG Moments

A child’s first fishing trip is exciting for both parent and child. A fun experience can lead to future years of fishing enjoyment. Here are some simple tips for taking kids fishing:

  • pack plenty of snacks and cold drinks
  • pick a fishing pole that fits your child’s hands
  • choose a spot close to home
  • morning trips are best – the fish bite better and kids have more energy
  • make sure there are restrooms near
  • pick a sunny day with moderate temperatures
  • keep the trip short – a couple hours at most
  • leave your fishing rod at home
  • remember you are taking the kids — they aren’t taking you
  • take plenty of breaks from fishing
  • take pictures
  • plan alternate activities to do if the weather turns bad or your child gets bored
  • have fun!
  • emphasize that fishing is fun, catching is a bonus

Get Ready to Go Fishing

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