Waterloo, Iowa

Waterloo, nestled along the Cedar River and framed by rolling Iowa countryside, offers anglers an inviting mix of urban riverfront access and nearby lakes brimming with fish. The city’s revitalized riverwalk and parks make for easy wade or bank fishing for species like bass, catfish, and panfish right in town. Just beyond the city limits, reservoirs and conservation ponds deliver suburban serenity and productive fishing for crappie, bluegill, and walleye. Seasonal insect hatches along the Cedar River create exciting dry-fly opportunities, while evening catfish runs in deeper holes keep anglers busy at dusk. With well-maintained access points, boat ramps, and family-friendly parks, Waterloo is a hidden gem in Iowa’s freshwater fishing scene.

Cedar River (Riverfront Park to Linnwood Park)

Flowing through downtown Waterloo, this stretch of the Cedar River is known for smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and occasional freshwater drum. Anglers can wade near stone embankments or fish from shaded banks using soft plastics, inline spinners, and cut bait. Spring brings prolific mayfly hatches that entice rising trout and smallmouth to the surface, while summer evenings see catfish moving into deeper pools. Multiple public access points and paved trails make it simple to hop between productive runs and riffles.

George Wyth Lake

Located just north of town in George Wyth State Park, this 1,200-acre lake is a hotspot for largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. Anglers troll spoons and crankbaits in open water or pitch jigs and plastic worms along submerged timber and rocky points. Early morning topwater action for bass is legendary in spring, while fall sees crappie schooling around brush piles near the shore. The park’s boat ramps and fishing piers provide easy boat and shore access for anglers of all skill levels.

Ernst Island Access (Cedar River)

A quieter backwater channel off the main Cedar River, Ernst Island offers stealthy fishing for panfish, smallmouth bass, and bowfin in slow, snag-filled runs. Bank anglers navigate narrow trails to shaded eddies where fish hide under fallen logs and root wads. Light tackle with live bait or small jigs produces steady action throughout the day, especially in spring and early summer. Birdsong and gentle currents enhance the secluded, natural atmosphere just minutes from the city center.

Rieman Gardens Pond

Tucked inside the expansive Rieman Gardens complex, this ornamental pond is stocked seasonally with rainbow trout and supports bluegill and bass during warmer months. Its clear, calm waters invite ultralight spinning gear and small spinners under a bobber for relaxed, family-friendly fishing. Spring trout stockings ensure reliable action, while midsummer sees bluegill schooling along lily pad edges at dawn. Paved walkways and bench seating make it perfect for anglers seeking convenience and beauty in one spot.