Podcasts
Stay up to date with the latest Iowa Hunting and Fishing Report, featuring a rotating video packed with timely outdoor insights. From current bass fishing patterns and whitetail movement to trapping tips and seasonal wildlife activity, this page delivers a well-rounded look at what’s happening across Iowa’s outdoors—helping you make the most of every trip afield or on the water.
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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Iowa Fishing Report: Fishing for Summer Walleye and Catfish – July 17th, 2026
Most Iowa anglers are focusing on catfish and walleye this summer, but what if you could unlock the secrets to catching the biggest flatheads and wipers in the heat of July? Aaron McKinney reveals the proven tactics that are turning ordinary fishing trips into trophy-winning outings during the hottest months.
In this episode, you’ll discover how late-night catfish bites at Snapper City Bait and Tackle can be your best bet—using traditional stink baits and live bullheads or green sunfish for flatheads. Aaron shares surprising tips on bait selection and prime fishing times that could dramatically boost your success. He also breaks down the latest intel on walleye and perch at Big Creek and Spirit Lake, including which lures and techniques are delivering results in peak summer heat.
But it’s not just about the fish—Aaron emphasizes how staying off the water during the hottest parts of the day, and fishing early mornings and evenings, can keep you safer and improve your catch rate. With insights from local bait shops like Bing’s and Anchor Inn, plus tips on hydrating and avoiding heat exhaustion, he’s helping you turn these summer challenges into opportunities.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just getting started, this episode provides practical, actionable advice to make your next fishing adventure your best yet. Get ready to break through plateaus and elevate your summer fishing game with insider strategies that work—no matter how hot it gets outside.
Perfect for anyone looking to maximize their summer fishing or dive into Iowa’s hot spots, this episode is packed with expert tips, local reports, and a glimpse of upcoming gear reviews—including how the new Tacticam 360 Defend can help you capture all the action. Don’t miss out—your next trophy is just a cast away.
Below is the link for the episode on Podbean, Give us a Follow!
Iowa Fishing Report: Fishing for Summer Walleye and Catfish | The Iowa Sportsman Podcast
Iowa Fishing Report: Heat Slows the Bite – July 10th, 2026
The summer heat has settled across Iowa, and while it’s slowed the fishing in many areas, there are still plenty of opportunities to put fish in the boat if you know where to go. In this week’s Iowa Hunting and Fishing Report, Aaron McKinney shares the latest fishing conditions from bait shops across the state and highlights where anglers are still finding success.
This week’s report features updates from Wood’s Sporting Goods in Council Bluffs, Jay’s Bait & Tackle in Burlington, Scanlon Bait & Tackle in Oskaloosa, and Crazy Minnow Company in Clear Lake. Learn how recent heat and fluctuating river conditions have impacted the catfish bite and why early mornings and late evenings continue to be the best times to fish during the hottest part of the summer.
Aaron discusses the latest reports on channel catfish, flathead catfish, bass, crappie, bluegill, and walleye, along with the baits producing the best results, including cut bait, stink bait, dip bait, Silver Hornets, and Shad Raps. While much of the state has seen fishing slow due to high temperatures, Clear Lake continues to offer excellent action for walleye and panfish, with anglers also landing some impressive flatheads.
If you’re looking for cooler weather and consistent fishing, Aaron also recommends heading to northeast Iowa’s Driftless Area. The Iowa DNR continues stocking trout throughout the region, making it one of the state’s most reliable destinations for rainbow, brown, and brook trout. He also shares why a visit to the Decorah Fish Hatchery is worth adding to your weekend plans.
In addition to the fishing report, Aaron offers seasonal tips for staying comfortable and productive on the water, including fishing during the cooler parts of the day, using electronics to locate fish, and remembering your bug spray as mosquitoes and ticks remain active across Iowa.
Whether you’re chasing catfish on the rivers, trolling for walleye on Clear Lake, or exploring the scenic trout streams of northeast Iowa, this week’s report will help you make the most of your time outdoors.
Be sure to like, subscribe, and share the Iowa Hunting and Fishing Report so you never miss the latest fishing updates, hunting news, and outdoor adventures from across the Hawkeye State.
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Hunting & Fishing Report: Heat Slows the Bite | The Iowa Sportsman Podcast
Iowa Hunting & Fishing Report: Fourth of July Weekend Fishing Guide
The latest Iowa Hunting and Fishing Report is packed with fishing updates and outdoor ideas to help you make the most of the Fourth of July weekend. Host Aaron McKinney reports that despite the summer heat, fishing conditions remain excellent across Iowa, with anglers continuing to find success on a variety of species.
Catfish action remains one of the biggest highlights statewide. Anglers targeting flathead, channel, and blue catfish are finding strong bites on both the Mississippi and Missouri rivers, making this a great time to pursue some trophy-sized fish.
At Clear Lake, the walleye and crappie bite continues to be productive. Crappie are being caught in shallower water using minnows, while walleye are holding a little deeper along weed edges. Aaron also encourages anglers to stay mobile if fish aren’t cooperating, reminding viewers that moving to locate active fish often leads to better success. For families or beginners looking to get out on the water, Clear Lake Bait and Tackle also offers guided fishing trips that provide a fun and educational experience.
In the Iowa Great Lakes region, Kebele’s Trading Post and Lodge reports solid walleye fishing on Spirit Lake in 18 to 20 feet of water, especially during the evening hours. Perch and crappie are being caught in 7 to 10 feet of water using red worms and waxworms, while walleye continue to respond well to crankbaits, leeches, minnows, and nightcrawlers. Aaron also reminds anglers not to overlook Spirit Lake’s outstanding smallmouth bass fishery, which is known for producing hard-fighting, trophy-sized fish.
Further south, Lakeside Outdoors reports excellent fishing opportunities, with walleye and wipers providing consistent action. Rathbun Lake’s wiper bite has been especially impressive, with crankbaits, minnows, and nightcrawlers proving to be effective presentations.
Beyond fishing, Aaron encourages families to spend time outdoors by exploring Iowa’s Freedom Rocks, which showcase patriotic artwork and honor veterans throughout the state. As Independence Day celebrations continue, he also reminds everyone to celebrate responsibly by avoiding drinking and driving and practicing fireworks safety.
The episode concludes with an invitation for viewers to like, share, and follow the Iowa Hunting and Fishing Report, while also encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to submit their own hunting, fishing, and wildlife videos for the chance to be featured in future episodes.
Below is the link for the episode on Podbean, Give us a Follow!
Hunting & Fishing Report 4th of July| The Iowa Sportsman Podcast