Cedar River - Cedar Falls - Washington
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
Cedar River – Cedar Falls - Water Flow Chart
Cedar River – Cedar Falls - Weather report & radar
Cedar River – Cedar Falls - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Midge Hatch | Afternoon | #18 – #22 | Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge |
| February | Midge Hatch | Afternoon | #18 – #22 | Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge |
| March | Blue Winged Olive | Afternoon | #16 – #20 | Adams, Parachute BWO |
| April | Caddis, Mayflies | Morning and Afternoon | #14 – #18 | Elk Hair Caddis, Pheasant Tail Nymph |
| May | Caddis, Mayflies | Morning and Afternoon | #14 – #18 | Elk Hair Caddis, Pheasant Tail Nymph |
| June | Stoneflies, Caddis | Morning and Afternoon | #10 – #16 | Stimulator, Hares Ear Nymph |
| July | Terrestrial, Caddis | Morning and Evening | #10 – #16 | Ants, Hoppers, Elk Hair Caddis |
| August | Terrestrial, Caddis | Morning and Evening | #10 – #16 | Ants, Hoppers, Elk Hair Caddis |
| September | Blue Winged Olive | Morning and Afternoon | #16 – #20 | Adams, Parachute BWO |
| October | Blue Winged Olive | Morning and Afternoon | #16 – #20 | Adams, Parachute BWO |
| November | Midge Hatch | Afternoon | #18 – #22 | Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge |
| December | Midge Hatch | Afternoon | #18 – #22 | Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge |
Cedar River – Cedar Falls Access Points
- George Wyth State Park: Located on the Cedar River, this park provides a plethora of opportunities for fly fishing while enjoying beautiful scenery.
- Island Park: A popular spot located downtown Cedar Rapids. This spot is known for its fishing deck where you can catch multiple species of fish.
- Palmer’s Landing: Near Waterloo, the river here offers great opportunities to catch rainbow trout.
Cedar River – Cedar Falls Fishing Spots
The Cedar River in Cedar Falls is teeming with fly fishing spots ideal for both the novice and seasoned angler. Below are the top spots:
- Black Hawk Park: It offers quiet sections of the river laden with smallmouth bass and catfish.
- Island Park: Situated in the city center, this park is known for walleyes, especially near the dam.
- George Wyth State Park: It is famed for its shallow areas known to house pike and panfish.
- Anderson Canoe Access: This secluded spot is ideal for catching bass and pike.
In addition to these spots, there are several lesser-known locations along the riverbanks. Always ensure to check local regulations for fishing and remember to practice catch and release to maintain the fish population locally.
Cedar River – Cedar Falls Local Fish Species
- Brook Trout: Known for their stunning coloration, these fish are loved by both fly fishers and photographers.
- Rainbow Trout: They are renowned for their fighting spirit and aerial acrobatics when hooked.
- Brown Trout: Notoriously wily, these fish are a challenge for any fly fisher to catch.
- Smallmouth Bass: They reside in the more rocky area of the river, presenting a thrilling fishing experience.
- Largemouth Bass: These are strong fighters that can make for an exciting catch.
- Northern Pike: Giant, aggressive, and difficult to catch — these fish are a bucket-list item for many fly fishers.
- Walleye: They are spooky and challenging but rewarding to catch.
- Muskellunge: Often called “the fish of ten thousand casts,” these are one of the most difficult fish for fly anglers to catch, making them a coveted prize.
About the Cedar River – Cedar Falls
The Cedar River holds a unique position in the heart of Cedar Falls. Originating in Dodge County, Minnesota, the river flows 338 miles before merging with the Iowa River. Cedar Falls owes its development to the river’s power used to run the sawmills and gristmills in the 1840s.
Throughout the years, the Cedar River has been both a lifeline and a challenge for locals. It has powered industries, provided leisure opportunities, and at times, caused significant flooding. A few key highlights include:
- In 1845, William Sturgis and family built the first dam for industrial use.
- The 1890s saw the use of the river’s power for electricity generation.
- In 1932, the Ice House Museum, an iconic structure powered by the river, was constructed.
- Significant flooding in 2008 prompted the construction of innovative flood control measures.
Today, the Cedar River continues to be a vibrant part of Cedar Falls, offering a home for wildlife, recreational opportunities, and a reminder of the town’s historical beginnings.
Community Contributions
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