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 Elk Horn. Right now in February, activity is Poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
If you're looking for a smallmouth bass adventure off the beaten path, Elk Horn, Iowa, offers some surprisingly good opportunities. The Nishnabotna River, though smaller than some of Iowa's better-known bass fisheries, holds a healthy population of smallies. Spring and fall are prime times, as the bass are more active with the cooler water temperatures. Focus on areas with rocky structure, fallen timber, and current breaks. A local tip: wading the river can be very effective, but be mindful of water levels after rainfall. Public access can be limited, so research county road crossings and bridge access points beforehand. These smallmouths may not be giants, but their scrappy fight in the clear, flowing water makes for an enjoyable experience. Remember to check the Iowa DNR regulations for size and possession limits.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Smallmouth Bass in Elk Horn.
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's the minimum length for Smallmouth Bass I can keep in Iowa?
The minimum size limit for Smallmouth Bass is 12 inches in Iowa.
How many Smallmouth Bass can I keep per day in Elk Horn, Iowa?
The daily bag limit for Smallmouth Bass is 5 fish.
What's a good lure to use for Smallmouth Bass in Elk Horn, Iowa?
Smallmouth Bass often respond well to crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and tube jigs. Look for rocky areas and submerged structures.
Do I need a license to fish for Smallmouth Bass in Iowa?
Yes, you will need a valid Iowa fishing license to fish for Smallmouth Bass.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Iowa
Other Species to Fish in Elk Horn
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Elk Horn?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.