Southeast Iowa anglers can look forward to one of the season’s favorite traditions as the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) begins its fall community trout stockings on October 23. Several local lakes will soon be stocked with 1,000 to 2,000 rainbow trout each, giving families and fishing enthusiasts the chance to enjoy trout fishing close to home.
The DNR’s cool-weather trout program brings the popular fish to lakes that can’t support them during the summer, creating unique fishing opportunities throughout the region. The fall stockings are also a great way to introduce kids to fishing—just a small hook with a nightcrawler or corn under a bobber, or a simple spinner such as a Panther Martin or Mepps, is all that’s needed to catch trout.
Community events are often held alongside the stockings, helping new anglers learn and enjoy the experience together.
Southeast Iowa trout stocking schedule:
- Oct. 23: Ottumwa Park Pond, Ottumwa – 11 a.m.
- Oct. 25: East Lake Park Pond, Mount Pleasant – 10 a.m.
- Oct. 25: Wilson Lake, Donnellson – Noon
The trout program is supported by the sale of trout fees, which are required along with a valid Iowa fishing license. The daily limit is five trout per licensed angler, with a possession limit of 10. Children 15 and under can fish with a licensed adult and share the limit, or purchase their own trout fee to keep a full daily catch.
For more information and tips on trout fishing in community lakes, visit the Iowa DNR’s Community Trout Stocking Schedule and trout fishing webpage at iowadnr.gov