6 Favorite Fishing Spots Near Elkader, IA

Fishing is a great activity to forget about the day-to-day stress and worries. For a moment, it’s just you and the water. Fishing is a versatile sport that allows you to spend time on your own or bring friends and family with you. There are different fish species and plenty of nature to enjoy at these fantastic fishing spots near Elkader, IA. Remember to research fishing and safety regulations before your visit and get or renew your fishing license.

1. Bloody Run Creek

After a short 26-minute drive from Elkader, you’ll arrive at this beautiful 135-acre park, where you can also set up camp and spend the night. Here, you can fish Rainbow Trout, Northern Pike, and Largemouth Bass. The place is secluded, surrounded by trees, and quiet. The area got its name in the early 19th century because of deer hunting.

2. Whitewater Park

Whitewater Park sits at the banks of the Turkey River. You can catch common carps, Rock and Smallmouth Bass, Channel Catfish, and Golden Redhorse fish in its waters. There’s a large recreational area where your children can have fun while you fish, and there are plenty of other family-friendly recreational activities.

3. Volga Lake

Twenty-five miles away from Elkader, you can find this outstanding, 135-acre wide and 23ft. deep lake. It’s a natural paradise where you can fish green Sunfish, Yellow Perch, and Black Crappie, among other fish species. The park offers camping and picnic areas for a relaxing weekend getaway. There’s also a small playground, and there are restrooms available for visitors.

4. Big Springs Trout Hatchery

Big Springs is the largest coldwater spring in Iowa. As the name states, the main attraction of the place is fishing for trout. They even have a kid’s trout fishing pond specially designed for children under 15. The hatchery produces around 160,00 pounds of fish every year and employs many local fishermen. It raises five different trout species, as well as Chinook Salmon and Kokanee Salmon.

5. Backbone State Park

Located in the shores of Backbone Lake, Backbone State Park is Iowa’s oldest state park, founded in 1920. Here, you can fish for trout at the springwater-fed stream. While you are here, don’t miss the chance to boat in the lake and spend some time relaxing at the beach, where you can find a concession stand selling snacks and beverages.

6. Osborne Pond

Osborne Pond is located at the Osborne Nature Center, 4.5 miles away from Elkader. Here, you can row in your kayak to fish Bluegill and Smallmouth Bass. If you get hungry, approach the dock, and by lunch, it’s served directly to your kayak, so you don’t have to interrupt your fishing day. From the park, you can also access the Volga River.

Pack up all your fishing gear and drive to one of these great places. Don’t own a car yet? Come to Browns Family of Dealerships to check out our inventory and pricing options, and choose one that suits you.