Hunting & Fishing Report May 8

The episode features an in-depth fishing and outdoor report for early May across key destinations in Iowa, delivered from the perspective of an active angler who has been on the water. The conversation begins with a recap of the Iowa Walleye Opener on the Iowa Great Lakes, with particular focus on Spirit Lake. Listeners hear how nighttime proved most productive, with solid numbers of walleye and smallmouth bass coming on jigs and shad-imitating crankbaits. While not described as an all-out frenzy, the bite is characterized as consistently good, especially after dark. The report then shifts to Black Hawk Lake near Lake View, where conditions were more challenging due to a strong north wind. The episode notes an abundance of smaller walleyes in the 10- to 12-inch range, with a few keepers mixed in. Tactics there centered on jigs tipped with leeches or crawlers and some crankbait trolling. Brushy Creek Lake, between Fort Dodge and Webster City, is highlighted as a trophy walleye opportunity, with recent catches including fish in the mid-20-inch range and larger. The host emphasizes that Brushy can be a tough lake to pattern but rewards persistence. Looking ahead, the episode outlines plans to head south to the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers, including a nostalgic stop at the Redfield dam, a longtime personal favorite fishing spot. Additional destinations mentioned include 12 Mile and 3 Mile lakes in Union County, as well as Clear Lake and stretches of the Des Moines River further east, where multi-species action on walleye, sturgeon, catfish, smallmouth bass, and other gamefish is reportedly picking up as river levels stabilize. Safety on moving water is stressed, along with alternative access options such as river barges for those without boats. The episode closes with a short preview of upcoming food plot work in Madison and Adair Counties and a timely reminder about getting youth and families involved in turkey hunting to help sustain the tradition for future generations.