A delay of spring weather also means a delay for trout stocking.
According to the Iowa DNR, some northeast Iowa streams will have to wait to be stocked with trout due to poor road conditions and snow piles blocking some locations.
As conditions improve, trout hatcheries will adjust their stocking plans.
“We want to provide some opportunity for trout fishing even if we can’t provide a full stocking for the stream at each pool,” said Dan Kirby, fisheries biologist at the Manchester Trout Hatchery.
Catchable stockings will be at the following streams the first week of April: Turkey River, Little Paint, Bailey’s Ford, Swiss Valley, Coldwater, West Canoe, Bigalk, Bohemian, Spring, Turtle, Twin Springs, and Trout Run.
During the first week of April, North and South Bear will receive an unannounced stocking.
Another issue trout hatcheries at Decorah and Big Spring face is the potential for snowmelt runoff and rain making spring water muddy.
For the most updated information call the trout stocking hotline at 563-927-5736.
It is advised that anglers call before heading to the stream.
