Fishing Charters in Iowa
Browse fishing charters in Iowa that can help you catch channel catfish.


Ron Oman Charters
Cherokee, Iowa


Xicanx Fly
XICANX FLY. Iowa Driftless Fly Fishing guided trips. Premium quality Drifless flies for sale. Specializing in Euro Nymphing and innovative Trout Streamers, Bass Streamers, Pike/Musky Streamers, and Great Lakes steelhead flies.


Legends Guide Service


Paul Malone Fishing Inc
Fishing and Hunting Guide Services, bass fishing guide


Sugar Bottom Crappie Guide Service


IceBound Guide Service
Professional fishing charter service in Grimes, Iowa. Contact us to book your next fishing adventure!


Todd's Fishing Guide
Fishing Charter that provides the best Mississippi River Catfish, Walleye, Crappie, Blue Gill, and Bass Fishing. Book your fishing trip today with Todd's Fishing Guide!


Bear Creek Anglers


Wonderlich Outdoors
Wonderlich Outdoors Hunting and Fishing Guide in Iowa offer everything from ice fishing to whitetail deer guides to African safaris.


The Landing, a Riverfront Inn
At The Landing, we provide lodging rooms and suites in this beautifully renovated warehouse. Along with the Riverfront Inn, we have a gas dock and fishing barge along the Mississippi River.


Fish Okoboji
Fish on the Iowa Great Lakes in Okoboji, Iowa with JTG Expeditions, your professional Okoboji fishing guides.


Central Iowa Charters
Best Time to Catch Channel Catfish
Channel Catfish can be caught year-round in Cascade. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Channel Catfish
The Maquoketa River near Cascade, Iowa, offers solid channel catfish opportunities. While not known for monster cats, the river holds a healthy population of fish in the 2-5 pound range, with larger specimens possible. The best time to target them is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. Focus your efforts in areas with deeper holes, log jams, and rocky structure. These cats love to hide and ambush prey. Traditional catfish baits like nightcrawlers, chicken liver, and stinkbaits are all effective. Fishing near dusk and dawn can increase your chances of success. A good spot to try is below any of the low-head dams on the river, as these areas tend to concentrate catfish. Be aware of the current and use enough weight to keep your bait on the bottom. A sturdy rod and reel are recommended, as even smaller catfish can put up a good fight in the current.
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Cascade.
Channel Catfish Fishing Regulations in Iowa
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Fishing License (unless exempt)
None
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Iowa state wildlife agency before fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the bag limit for Channel Catfish in Iowa?
There is no daily bag limit for Channel Catfish in Iowa. You can catch and keep as many as you like.
Are there any size restrictions for Channel Catfish in Iowa?
No, there is no minimum size limit for Channel Catfish in Iowa.
Do I need a license to fish for Channel Catfish near Cascade?
Yes, you generally need a valid Iowa fishing license to fish for Channel Catfish unless you are exempt under state regulations.
What's the best bait for Channel Catfish around Cascade?
Popular bait choices include nightcrawlers, chicken liver, and stinkbaits. Experiment to see what's working best on a given day.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in Iowa
Other Species to Fish in Cascade
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Cascade?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.
