Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HF832

Introduced
3/7/25  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to noodling licenses.(Formerly HF 505.)

Impact

The bill sets forth important restrictions to safeguard fish populations; for example, it stipulates that noodling can only occur during daylight hours, and that no more than three catfish can be harvested per license, with each fish requiring a minimum length of ten inches. Additional provisions include a prohibition on the use of special equipment, which aims to preserve the traditional method of noodling and ensure fair practice among fishermen. This regulatory approach not only aligns with conservation efforts but also reflects the importance of sustainable fishing practices.

Summary

House File 832 pertains to the introduction of noodling licenses, a requirement for individuals who wish to fish for catfish using the traditional method known as noodling, which involves catching fish with bare hands or feet. The bill outlines specific guidelines that govern the practice, ensuring that it is both regulated and monitored by state authorities. One of the key aspects of the bill is that it mandates the purchase of a noodling license before engaging in this form of fishing, thus establishing a framework for management and conservation of catfish populations within Iowa's waters.

Contention

Although the bill seeks to create a controlled environment for noodling, it could lead to debates regarding the rights of anglers and the potential impacts on local fishing traditions. Stakeholders may express concerns about the fees established by the natural resource commission, which will determine the cost and tenure of the noodling license. The imposition of such a regulatory framework might be viewed by some as restrictive or unnecessary, particularly among traditional anglers who may argue against the formal licensing of a time-honored practice. Overall, the reception of HF832 will likely depend on the perspectives of conservationists versus traditionalists within Iowa's fishing community.

Companion Bills

IA HF505

Similar To A bill for an act relating to noodling licenses.(See HF 832.)

Previously Filed As

IA SF2242

A bill for an act relating to special landowner deer hunting licenses.(Formerly SF 2043.)

IA HF2665

A bill for an act relating to fur-bearing animals, including the establishment of a raccoon bounty program and fund and the assessment of fur dealer license fees, making appropriations, and providing penalties.(Formerly HF 2481, HSB 636.)

IA HF2481

A bill for an act relating to fur-bearing animals, including the establishment of a raccoon bounty program and fund and the assessment of fur dealer license fees, making appropriations, and providing penalties.(Formerly HSB 636; See HF 2665.)

IA HF175

A bill for an act relating to the taking of black bears, and making penalties applicable.(Formerly HF 89.)

IA HF2484

A bill for an act relating to the use of deer depredation licenses.(Formerly HF 2014.)

IA HF582

A bill for an act relating to hunting by persons with disabilities arising from military service.(Formerly HSB 205.)

IA HSB636

A bill for an act relating to fur-bearing animals, including the establishment of a raccoon bounty program and fund and the assessment of fur dealer license fees, making appropriations, and providing penalties.(See HF 2481, HF 2665.)

IA HF494

A bill for an act establishing the professional counselors licensure compact.(Formerly HF 90; See HF 671.)

IA SF553

A bill for an act relating to special deer hunting licenses available to nonresident family members.(Formerly SF 363, SF 277.)

IA SF363

A bill for an act relating to special deer hunting licenses available to nonresident family members.(Formerly SF 277; See SF 553.)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.