Iowa Hunting & Fishing Report: Catfish Stay Hot, Delta Waterfowl Expo Begins- July 23rd, 2026
This week’s Iowa Hunting & Fishing Report arrives a day early as Aaron McKinney heads to Des Moines for the Delta Waterfowl Hunter Expo. Before hitting the expo, Aaron breaks down the latest fishing conditions from around the state and shares where anglers are finding success despite the summer heat.
The cooler temperatures have provided a welcome break, and while the bite remains similar to last week, there are still plenty of opportunities to put fish in the boat. Aaron checks in with bait shops and outdoor experts across Iowa, including Manson Lumber & Bait, Hennings Tackle, Iowa River Outdoors, and Wildwoods Taxidermy, for the latest reports on walleye, crappie, bluegill, catfish, and flatheads.
Brushy Creek continues to produce quality walleye and crappie, while the Iowa Great Lakes are seeing excellent bluegill fishing in deeper water. Catfish remain the highlight across much of the state, with channel cats feeding aggressively on dip baits, stink baits, and cut bait, and trophy flatheads continuing to hit live bait in rivers across eastern Iowa. Aaron also discusses the best times to fish during the summer and offers tips on improving your chances of landing a memorable catch.
In the second half of the episode, Aaron previews everything happening at the Delta Waterfowl Hunter Expo at the Iowa Events Center, including the Delta Double Reed Calling Championship, vendor exhibits, and family-friendly activities. He also invites listeners to stop by the Iowa Sportsman booth to say hello, learn about magazine subscription specials, and pick up a free Iowa Sportsman’s Atlas while supplies last by following the Iowa Sportsman on Facebook and subscribing to the Iowa Hunting & Fishing Report on YouTube.
Whether you’re chasing walleyes, targeting trophy catfish, or planning a weekend at one of Iowa’s biggest outdoor events, this episode has everything you need to make the most of your time outdoors.
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