The Hunting & Fishing Report August 14th

The August 14 edition of the Iowa Sportsman Hunting and Fishing Report brings plenty of good news for anglers across the state, along with an early look at preparations for the fast-approaching hunting season.

This week, Aaron McKinney checks in with bait and tackle shops across Iowa to find out what’s biting as summer begins to wind down. In north-central Iowa, anglers are finding walleyes at Storm Lake, Brushy Creek, and Black Hawk Lake, with eater-sized fish providing much of the action. White-and-orange twisters, especially patterns featuring an orange belly, have been producing fish. Bass fishing also remains strong, with topwater presentations such as frogs and Whopper Ploppers working around lily pads, weeds, and other vegetation.

Around Waterloo, the river catfish bite continues to shine. Channel catfish are taking dip bait, cut bait, chicken livers, chubs, and other traditional offerings, while anglers are still encountering some flatheads. The catfish action isn’t limited to one area, either. Reports from Webster City and Le Mars indicate excellent fishing in rivers across the state, including the Big Sioux River. Live chubs have been especially productive for anglers targeting both channel cats and flatheads.

Smallmouth bass are another option this week, particularly in Iowa’s smaller rivers. Twisters, spinnerbaits, small plugs, and topwater lures can all produce, with mornings and evenings offering a chance to avoid the hottest part of the day.

On the hunting side, Aaron finally makes it south to check the food plots. Brassicas and turnips are green and growing well after receiving plenty of rain, while deer have been feeding heavily on the forage oats. A newly placed trail camera is already producing encouraging results, including photos of a couple of nice bucks as hunting season approaches.

Finally, the Iowa Sportsman crew is heading to the Iowa State Fair to explore the exhibits, food, family attractions, and fair favorites—including the big bull, big pig, big ram, and famous butter cow.

Tune in for this week’s statewide fishing conditions, hunting-season preparation, food plot updates, and a preview of what’s ahead as fall draws closer.