The Hook 'n' Paddle Passport, launched last summer by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, has been brought back, in a new and improved form, for a second year of fun.

Credit: Iowa DNR
Credit: Iowa DNR
loading...

Explore more than 90 spots across Iowa this summer with the Hook n’ Paddle Passport. In-pass mapping makes it easy to find locations near you. Some check-in locations offer kayak/canoe rentals. Follow that link for a fill list of participating waterways and locations.

Credit: FamVeld
Credit: FamVeld
loading...

Get your 2023 passport and start collecting those points. Each check-in through August 31st rewards you with 100 points. By building up your points you can redeem them for great prizes, for example:

  • 300 pointsFish Iowa! water bottle or Fish Iowa! hat
  • 300 points - one entry into a grand prize sweepstake drawing with a chance to win a grand prize of a kayak, paddle, life jacket and dry bag
  • 600 points - dry bag or stocked mini tackle box
  • 1000 points - Zebco triggerspin telescoping rod or Zebco 33 spincast dock combo [42-inch rod]
A young caucasian fisherman proudly holds up his first walleye of the day
Credit: Willard
loading...

The Iowa DNR has added 45 additional sites this year for a total of more than 90 easy and safe paddling spots across the state of Iowa. Local and regional spots and their water trail maps can be found here. By the way, you can check into the same location more than once, just make sure you wait two weeks in between check-ins to guarantee your points.

Credit: Yobro10
Credit: Yobro10
loading...

Remember, the Iowa DNR wants you to be safe while fishing from a kayak and to be conservation conscious when it comes to your craft.

  • Be a confident paddler.
  • Leave your packed tackle box home. Bring only basic tackle for the specific fish species you are trying to catch.
  • Check water levels and weather conditions
  • Be Safe. Fish with a buddy and let someone know where you're going. Wear a properly-fitted life jacket and have first-aid handy. Carry a cell phone in a watertight dry-bag for emergencies.
  • Tie down items/paddles
  • Bring Water to Drink
  • Stay away from low-head damns. Be careful paddling around obstructions such as snags, log jams, submerged logs and other debris.
fisher
Credit: Natali Garyachaya
loading...

After enjoying the water:

  • Clean it! Inspect your watercraft to make sure there are no plants, mud or debris on or in it, the paddles, equipment, or trailer. If you find anything, remove it and dispose of it in the trash or on dry land away from water before moving to a new location.
  • Drain It! Make sure there is no standing water in your kayak. Make sure your bait buckets and internal compartments are clean and dry as well. Never transport or release bait fish unless they are native to the area.
  • DRY It! Use a rag or towel to dry your vessel including all compartments, live-wells, bait buckets, and your anchor. Dry everything for five or more days if possible. This is the best way to prevent the spread of most aquatic invasive species, since they can only survive in wet conditions.
bass fishing with Bass Pro Shops Crayfish
Credit: stammphoto
loading...

Most importantly have fun and enjoy the FREE Hook 'n' Paddle Passport from the Iowa DNR. Get your free passport here today!

    • Explore our beautiful fishing and paddling locations
    • Mobile exclusive
    • Instantly delivered via text and email
    • No apps to download
    • Collect points for check-ins and attending sponsored events (Now - August 31)
    • Win prizes along the way!

Hiking Trails and Nature near Dubuque, Iowa

Nature and hiking areas around the Dubuque, IA area.

Photos: Palisades-Kepler State Park

Take a hike through Palisades-Kepler State Park, just outside of Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

More From Eagle 102.3