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: Topwater Bass, Panfish & State Fair Preview – August 7th, 2026
Welcome back to the Iowa Hunting & Fishing Report. Rain finally brings some welcome relief across Iowa in the August 7 edition of the Iowa Hunting and Fishing Report. Aaron McKinney discusses how the rainfall is helping dry ground, food plots, wildlife habitat, and outdoor conditions after a stretch of hot summer weather. He also explains how high temperatures continue to affect fishing activity, making timing, depth, location, and bait selection especially important for anglers.
This week’s fishing report features updates from four trusted Iowa bait shops. No Limits Outdoors in Spencer reports a strong panfish bite, with wigglers, red worms, and wax worms producing fish in deeper water. Bass are also hitting topwater lures around the Iowa Great Lakes region, especially near weed beds and lily pads, creating exciting opportunities for anglers who enjoy frog fishing.
Bob’s Bait & Tackle in Marshalltown reports good action on area lakes for panfish, bass, and catfish. Early mornings from 6 to 9 and evenings from 7 until dark offer the best conditions. Anglers fishing during warmer hours should look for deeper water and shaded areas. Although river reports are limited, catfish are likely active throughout the region.
At Pro Marine in Mediapolis, fishing has been slower following heavy rain and continued heat. The best opportunities are near river dams, where anglers may find catfish, carp, and other species. Meanwhile, 5K Sports in Manchester reports good panfish and river catfish action. Smaller presentations, red worms, night crawler pieces, and wax worms are recommended, while bass continue to respond well to topwater baits on local lakes.
Aaron also demonstrates how quickly the Tactacam Defend 360 cellular security camera and solar panel can be installed. Mounted in only a few minutes, the motion-detecting camera can pan across an area and help monitor livestock or property. Future episodes will share sample photos and videos from the unit.
Finally, Aaron previews opening day at the Iowa State Fair, where he and Cade Panic plan to capture food, livestock, entertainment, and unexpected discoveries. Like, share, follow, and subscribe for weekly Iowa fishing reports, hunting updates, gear reviews, outdoor tips, and adventures from communities across the Hawkeye State.
Below is the link for the episode on Podbean, Give us a Follow!
Iowa Hunting & Fishing Report: Late Summer Fishing Update | The Iowa Sportsman Podcast
Iowa Hunting & Fishing Report: Late Summer Fishing Update – July 31st, 2026
The latest episode of the Iowa Hunting and Fishing Report is packed with timely fishing updates, outdoor insights, and a hands-on product review to help you make the most of your time outdoors. As summer heat continues across Iowa, Aaron McKinney shares where anglers are still finding success and how a welcome break in the weather could improve fishing conditions heading into the weekend.
This week’s fishing report highlights productive waters from across the state, including strong catfish action in Iowa’s rivers, excellent panfishing opportunities on Spirit Lake, and one of the few remaining walleye bites being reported around Lewis. You’ll also hear honest updates from Big Creek Marina, where recent heat has slowed the overall bite, but anglers targeting largemouth bass and bluegills around shaded coves are still finding success. Whether you’re chasing catfish after dark, looking for a family-friendly panfish trip, or searching for a few late-summer walleyes, this episode offers practical information from local bait shops and marinas to help you plan your next outing.
In addition to the fishing report, Aaron recaps the Delta Waterfowl Duck Hunters Expo in Des Moines, thanking everyone who stopped by the booth and discussing what made the event such a success. From major firearm manufacturers to ammunition companies and thousands of passionate hunters, the expo offered attendees a chance to connect directly with industry experts while celebrating Iowa’s strong outdoor community.
The episode also features an in-depth product review of the Tactacam Defend 360 Security Camera. You’ll see how easy the camera is to assemble, connect through the Defend app, and mount in the field. Aaron explains its solar-powered design, cellular connectivity that requires no Wi-Fi, weather-resistant construction, and live pan-and-zoom capabilities that make it useful for both property security and wildlife monitoring. The review focuses on setup tips and first impressions, with plans to revisit the camera after extended field use to evaluate image quality and long-term performance.
Whether you’re planning your next fishing trip, preparing for the upcoming hunting seasons, or looking for dependable outdoor gear, this episode delivers the practical, honest reporting Iowa sportsmen and women have come to expect from the Iowa Hunting and Fishing Report.
Below is the link for the episode on Podbean, Give us a Follow!
Iowa Hunting & Fishing Report: Late Summer Fishing Update | The Iowa Sportsman Podcast
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.
Below is the link for the episode on Podbean, Give us a Follow!
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
