Fishing is not only a great way to spend time outdoors, but it is also a way to social distance yourself from others. During this  COVID-19 pandemic, people are encouraged to practice social distancing, which can be done while enjoying the outdoors and specifically fishing. Iowa Department of Natural Resources Fisheries Biologist Chad Dolan enjoys fishing around Washington County and tells KCII News how the fish population is holding up, “The fish population in my district looks fantastic, to be honest. That’s really a testament to the anglers. Most anglers are compliant with any laws and regulations., and those are set to keep fish in place like largemouth bass. We want to make sure they’re there, they have a chance to reproduce, and ultimately they’re controlling the populations. We’re successful because people in the general public are cooperative and follow the regulations we set.”

Dolan warns anglers that the waters are still colder than normal and recommends those operating boats and kayaks to pack an extra set of clothes. He also says catching limits and possession limits are set to control overharvesting. Per day catching limits are set at 25 bluegills and crappies, three bass, and eight catfish, and anglers can have a maximum of six bass, 30 catfish, and unlimited bluegills and crappies in their possession at one time. Bass must also be a minimum of 15 inches before they can be harvested.