Kip’s Comments - October 28, 2026

This Week Is It (For Trout Stocking)

After I had packed up my fishing tackle from along one of my preferred trout streams a truck from the Iowa DNR drove up. Having seen the truck before, I knew it meant the stream was about to be stocked with rainbow trout again. As the trout were leaving the net and entering the stream, I asked the DNR official what the stocking schedule looked like beyond today. He explained what streams would be stocked through the end of the week and then added that Friday will be the end of trout stocking for this season.

Rainbow Trout in Net for Stocking - Image 1167672

Even though trout stocking will be paused, there will still be trout to catch. Anglers will need to work a bit harder for them, but there will be fish out there in some of Iowa’s most beautiful locations.

Rainbow Trout in Hand - Image 1167633

For those wondering, the trout that were stocked appeared to have been well-fed before being released. The trout would swim up to look at my offerings, but were not interested in clamping down. I moved from the stocked area to a hike-in section of stream where the trout were bigger and some were hungry (these fish had been "wild" for some time). We will be enjoying a meal of trout again in the near future!

Rainbow Trout in Hand - Image 1167659

Although I would be disappointed if I caught no fish, my trout fishing outings often seem to include meeting interesting people along the streams or nearby - a side benefit for my efforts. Today I met a fellow from Black Hawk County and three athletic guys who graduated together a number of years ago. If I remember correctly, all were in their mid-70’s and were taking care of themselves on the trail in the park. We had a great conversation before I headed home.