Summer Fishing is in Full Swing.
For those who have been willing to brave some of the humidity lately, we have gotten some good river floats in and spend time chasing smallmouth bass, some northern pike, white bass, wipers, and even some walleye and largemouth bass.
Thankfully, because of some incredible rain in a good portion of the state over the past 3-4 months, our river levels are generally at or above average flows for this time of the year. That leads to cooler water and happy fish. According to the Des Moines Register, Des Moines, Iowa just had the 6th-wettest month of July on record.
Not only that; higher levels allow for greater volumes of fish habitat in a particular waterbody. If there's a low-water year, much of typical fish habitat ends up on dry ground. On a year like this, you might see better quality fish in a system than you have in the drought years because those fish have previously been holed up in deeper water, or possibly water much farther downstream. Now, with more water, they are able to reach spots that they might not have been able to get to for a few years.
While these water levels are up, we still have a few available dates for float trips that give you an opportunity to chase some of Iowa's less-sought-after species. Enjoying some good scenery and some good time in the sun will just be a bonus to enjoying some fun times fishing. All of the fly fishing gear is provided on our trips.
Get in touch with us and let's get you on the calendar for a trip. Tight lines, hope to see you on the water.
Fishing Report
Click here for the Iowa DNR's Fishing Report (07/31/2024)
Local Reservoirs: After big bumps to reservoir levels in June and July, we are finally seeing boat ramps start to open up and water clarity improve. Some striped fish being caught in the mornings and evenings; walleye and crappie guys are still finding a few in deeper water. Find schools of bait.
Local Ponds: As it gets HOT outside, focus on targeting ponds in the mornings or on a day after a good, cool rain event. Some ponds have a surprising lack of weeds for this time of year, so get out and check out your local waters. Get those fish back to the water as soon as possible to ensure they get enough oxygen to survive the summer temperatures. Check the DNR's fish local page for a list of public waterbodies to explore.
Des Moines River: Big still, but clarity is pretty good for the DSM River. Find slack water next to some current and find ways to get your flies down, and you might find yourself with a walleye, drum, white bass, or another mystery fish on the end of your line. Mornings and evenings are also providing some topwater action.
Driftless Trout Streams (NE Iowa):
Look for a good terrestrial bite! Hopper/dropper rigs can be productive this time of year.
Be sure to use that thermometer to check water temps. Anything in that 68-72 range (or higher) is a no-go for trout.
~GUIDED FLY FISHING IN IOWA~
flyfishIA.com
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