May 22nd - Iowa Hunting & Fishing Report

The May 22nd “Iowa Hunting & Fishing Report” provides a seasonal update focused on late May 22nd conditions, fishing opportunities across the state, and a brief personal note on hunting dogs. The host opens by highlighting favorable weather for both fishing and habitat work. With rain largely out of the forecast and a long Memorial Day weekend approaching, landowners are encouraged to finalize food plots, while anglers are advised that conditions are ideal to spend extended time on the water. The host also pauses to recognize Memorial Day as a time to honor fallen service members and spend time with family.  A short recap follows of recent food plot work, including getting three plots planted before a sudden Iowa thunderstorm turned roads into deep mud, leading to a difficult and messy exit and extensive cleanup. Despite the challenges, the planting was largely successful and provided useful footage for future content. The fishing report centers on strong crappie and walleye action. Reports from Casey’s Bait and Tackle in Des Moines indicate excellent crappie fishing on live bait and jigs, with catfish also available though rivers are currently high and muddy and will need a few days to settle. Clear Lake Bait and Tackle in Clear Lake notes that docks are in and crappie fishing is very productive, with the lake offering additional recreational opportunities over the holiday weekend. Hank’s Live Bait and Tackle in Waterloo confirms an outstanding crappie bite on a combination of minnows and jigs, along with eater-sized walleye on nightcrawlers. At Brushy Creek, eater-sized walleye in the 14–17 inch range are being caught in 10–20 feet of water, particularly near shore in the evenings, with a consistent leech bite and occasional trophy fish. The host also introduces Lou, a ten-week-old Small Munsterlander, describing the breed as an affectionate, versatile hunting dog suited for tracking wounded game, upland birds, and waterfowl, and noting that Lou is expected to appear in future hunting content.   Listen to the Previous Hunting and Fishing Reports below! Podcasts - The Iowa Sportsman Below is the link for the episode on Podbean, Give us a Follow! Hunting & Fishing Report May 8 | The Iowa Sportsman Podcast