The IDNR lists 243 lakes across the state in its Iowa Lake Fishing Guide. A companion publication, Iowa Stream Fishing and Canoe Guide, has detailed maps and access points covering more than 18,000 miles of streams. Both are available online at www.iowadnr.com.

Two other publications that should also be tucked away in your dusty old truck are the DeLorme Map Company's Iowa Atlas & Gazetteer and the Iowa Sportsman's Atlas, which published by the Sportsman's Atlas Company, Box 132, Lytton, IA 50561. Both of these references are available for $20 or less each, and between them you'll find details that are a great boon to success in any hunting or fishing adventure in the Hawkeye State.

Little reference material was available when the water first called my name over 50 years ago. What was available was portable, enjoyable, instructive and all-around wonderful -- and wrapped up in one package called "Dad." If that job title is part of your life resume, know that the most important job you'll ever do is teaching a youngster the passion for the pursuit of Iowa's alpha 'gills.