When the bobber lands and sends ripples cascading through the water, the look on your child’s face will surely light up. Within moments, the bobber will stand upright, twist, and dive right out of sight. The battle with your bluegill, walleye, bass, or catfish has begun! Set the hook and reel it in. This hands-on experience with wildlife is a perfect way to engage your family with nature and the outdoors before sending your catch back into the water and restarting the process.
Linn County and Cedar Rapids are ideal for fishing enthusiasts and their families. There are plenty of wonderful fishing spots to choose from. To name just a few, we compiled a list below. You can find Iowa Fishing license and regulation information here.
1. Pinicon Ridge Park
This 966-acre park sits right on the Wapsipinicon River and is perfect for a day of fishing. Full of natural beauty, wildlife, and water, you’ll be sure to relax with your family and catch a few fish.
2. Prairie Park Fishery
Prairie Park Fishery provides great opportunities for fishing, ice fishing, picnicking, and so much more. Grab your rod and spend a peaceful day in the park.
3. Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area
Pleasant Creek is one of the best fishing lakes in Iowa. Full of bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill, and more, you’ll be sure to catch what you’re looking for.
The experience of getting outdoors, unplugging, and spending time on the shorelines or in our parks with family is incredibly rewarding. Iowa is lucky to have rapid growth in our fish species, which makes the opportunity to catch new and more fish even greater. A simple set up such as a spin-casting rod and reel, a small bobber, a size 6 or 8 hook, and half a nightcrawler can catch many of the most desirable fish in the area.
