The Iowa Department of Natural Resources will allow promiscuous fishing to take place in waters bodies left behind from the 2011 Missouri River flood, beginning on Aug. 15. These waters bodies need to be completely isolated from the river, unlikely to be connected to the river during normal flows, did not exist before the flood, and are less than 5 feet in depth if on public land. Anglers will need permission to access water bodies on private land.

Promiscuous fishing regulations for isolated water bodies in Missouri River flood plain in Iowa will remain in effect until on or about November 30, 2011.

Anglers with a valid fishing license will be allowed to harvest any size or number of fish species from these isolated flood waters. Any number of fishing poles, jugs or nets will be allowed. Anglers must remain in sight of these lines at all times, and follow all other fishing regulations and area rules. Trot lines will be allowed (name and address must be attached), however lines may not be set across entire water body and at least one end must be above the water level and visible.

Dynamite, poison, or electric shocking devices, or any stupefying substances will not be allowed. It is illegal to sell fish or stock captured fish into public waters.

If anglers capture a sturgeon fish species the DNR asked that they be returned to the river as quickly as possible. Pallid sturgeon is listed as an endangered species in the Missouri River and is protected under federal law.