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 Decorah. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Channel Catfish
If you're after channel catfish near Decorah, the Upper Iowa River is your best bet. This scenic river offers plenty of classic catfish habitat, including deep holes, log jams, and rocky runs. The best time to target catfish is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. Fish the deeper holes during the day and move to shallower areas near structure in the evening. A local tip is to use stink baits or cut bait fished on a slip sinker rig. Worms and nightcrawlers also work well. Public access is available at several points along the river, including the Decorah Fish Hatchery and various county road crossings. Be aware of water levels, as the river can fluctuate significantly. Catfish in the Upper Iowa River tend to be opportunistic feeders and can grow to a respectable size.
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Decorah.
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
Is there a limit on how many Channel Catfish I can catch near Decorah?
No, there is no daily bag limit for Channel Catfish in Iowa.
Do I need a license to fish for Channel Catfish in Iowa?
Yes, you need a valid Iowa fishing license unless you are exempt under state regulations.
Are there any size restrictions on Channel Catfish in Iowa?
No, there is no minimum or maximum size limit for Channel Catfish in Iowa.
What's a good bait to use for Channel Catfish near Decorah?
Popular baits include nightcrawlers, chicken liver, stink baits, and cut bait. Experiment to see what the catfish are biting on that day.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in Iowa
Other Species to Fish in Decorah
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Decorah?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.