While social distancing measures remain in effect, area residents are still taking advantage of the nice weather to get out to local recreation areas for fishing. According to Chad Dolan, Iowa DNR Fisheries Biologist stationed at Lake Darling State Park, Iowa’s ponds, rivers and streams are all open for fishing and all regulations and license options remain unchanged, but it is also important to adhere to distance guidelines in relation to COVID-19. Dolan gives these tips to local anglers to stay safe this season, “try a new fishing spot. If your regular spot is popular and busy, try out a new one where less people are fishing. A list of locations is available online at www.iowadnr.gov/fishlocal. Once you find a spot keep a distance of at least six feet between you and other groups. Keep groups to fewer than 10 people. Bring lures from home instead of buying bait to minimize interaction with others. Buy your fishing license online. Bring your hand sanitizer and wash your hands frequently. If you are unable to go out and fish, do some fishing activities from home like organizing your tackle box, so when the time comes to go out, you are ready.”

You can purchase your fishing license online at iowadnr.gov.