Fishing Charters in Iowa
Browse fishing charters in Iowa that can help you catch smallmouth bass.


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 Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass can be caught year-round in Anamosa. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Smallmouth Bass
The smallmouth bass fishing around Anamosa, Iowa, centers on the Wapsipinicon River and the Maquoketa River, both offering excellent habitat for these hard-fighting fish. What makes this area special is the rocky structure and clear water of these rivers, perfect for smallmouth ambush points. Summer and early fall are generally the best times, when the water is warmer and the smallies are actively feeding. Look for deeper pools near riffles, submerged rocks, and fallen timber. A great local tip is to use crayfish imitations, as these are a staple in the smallmouth diet here. You can access the rivers at various bridge crossings and public access points, but be aware of water levels, especially after heavy rains. The smallmouth bass in this region are known for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs, making for an exciting fishing experience.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Smallmouth Bass in Anamosa.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing Regulations in Iowa
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
12-inch minimum
License Required
Fishing license
In streams and rivers, all bass must be immediately released. Exceptions exist for specific lakes and impoundments.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Iowa state wildlife agency before fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best spots to catch smallmouth bass near Anamosa?
The Wapsipinicon River near Anamosa is known for its smallmouth bass fishing. Look for rocky areas, deeper pools, and submerged structures, as smallmouth tend to congregate around these features.
What is the daily bag limit for smallmouth bass in Iowa?
In Iowa, you can keep up to 5 smallmouth bass per day.
Is there a size restriction for smallmouth bass I catch in Iowa?
Yes, any smallmouth bass you keep in Iowa must be at least 12 inches long.
What's a good bait to use for smallmouth bass in the Wapsipinicon River?
Popular and effective baits include crankbaits, spinners, and live bait like nightcrawlers or minnows. Focus on lures that mimic the small fish and insects that smallmouth bass feed on.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Iowa
Other Species to Fish in Anamosa
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Anamosa?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.
