Iowa Fishing License
Fishing in Iowa can be a rewarding experience for residents and dedicated anglers alike, with rich waters teeming with crappie, bass, walleye, catfish, and more. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Iowa fishing licenses for 2024–2025.
Who Needs a Fishing License?
- Residents: All Iowa residents 16 and older must carry a valid state fishing license to fish public waters.
- Nonresidents: Required for anyone 16 and older.
- Exemptions: Residents under 16, landowners fishing on their own land, and qualified veterans/disabled individuals (see Iowa DNR for full exemption list).
License Types and Fees (2024–2025)
License Type | Resident Fee | Nonresident Fee |
|---|---|---|
Annual Fishing | $22 | $48 |
7-Day Fishing | N/A | $37 |
24-Hour Fishing | $10 | $12 |
3-Year Fishing | $62 | N/A |
Bonus Line | $14 | $14 |
Special Packages: Outdoor Combo (fishing, hunting, habitat) for $55 (residents).
Trout: Add trout fee for both residents and nonresidents if fishing for trout.
All fees confirmed as of June 2024 (Iowa Legislature updates fees periodically).
How to Buy an Iowa Fishing License
- Online: Go to Go Outdoors Iowa
- Mobile App: Download “Go Outdoors Iowa” (iOS/Android) to store licenses, check regulations, and navigate fishing maps.
- Local Vendors: Purchase at participating bait shops, sporting goods stores, or county recorder offices – DNR vendor locator.
- Phone: Call 1-800-367-1188 for convenient ordering (service fees may apply).
Tip: First-timers should have their social security and driver’s license numbers on hand.
Iowa Fishing Rules & Regulations (2024–2025)
- Most public waters open year-round, but check posted site-specific restrictions.Daily and possession limits set for popular species such as walleye, crappie, trout, bass, catfish, paddlefish. (Current Regulations PDF)
- Bonus Line option allows fishing with up to three lines.
- Tackle: Standard rod and reel or DNR-approved set lines only.
- Some public waters have unique local restrictions—double check with the DNR app or posted signs.
- Always follow catch-and-release and best conservation practices to protect Iowa waters.
2024–2025 Updates
- No major fee changes as of June 2024.
- Digital licenses in the Go Outdoors Iowa app now accepted universally, including while on the water.
- Trout fee and access requirements are clarified for 2024. For real-time law updates, see DNR News Releases.
Top Fishing Spots for Iowa Residents and Anglers
- Spirit Lake: Top for walleye, muskie, yellow perch (NW Iowa).
- Clear Lake: Walleye, channel cat, yellow bass; frequent tournaments (North-central Iowa).
- Mississippi River Pools 9–19: Classic multi-species action—bass, walleye, catfish, pike (Eastern Iowa).
- Lake Rathbun: Famed for crappie, plus walleye/catfish (South-central Iowa).
- Big Creek Lake: Stocked bass, bluegill, walleye; lots of access (Des Moines metro).
- Saylorville Lake: Multi-species, accessible shore and boat fishing (Central Iowa).
- Brushy Creek Lake: Deep water and structure for trophy bass, crappie, muskie.
Resources and Key Links
- Regulations: 2025 Iowa DNR Handbook (PDF)
- Buy licenses: Go Outdoors Iowa
- Vendor locator: Iowa DNR License Vendors
- DNR Angling Hub: Iowa DNR Fishing
- DNR Contact: 515-725-8200 | [email protected]
Pro Tips for Iowa Anglers
- Buy your license early each season and always carry proof—digital or paper both accepted!
- Follow bag, size, and line limits to protect Iowa’s fishing for future generations.
- The Go Outdoors Iowa app is your friend: check maps, recent stocking, regulations, and more—all from your phone while on the water.
References
Fishing in the Hawkeye State is easy, affordable, and fun—so get licensed and start casting!
