Reel in the Excitement
For the first time ever, Council Bluffs will host a stop on the Twisted Cat Outdoors Fishing Series—one of the most competitive and thrilling catfish tournaments in the region! This long-running tournament series is now in its 11th season, drawing both seasoned anglers and enthusiastic newcomers, all chasing the thrill of hooking the big one.
Event Highlights
The regular season event entry fee is $300, featuring a 100% payback to the winners, plus an extra $500 added to the Big Fish Pot courtesy of Castaway Midwest. Nearly 200 anglers are expected to cast their lines, each hoping to reel in the catch of a lifetime.
Friday Night: Captain’s Meeting at Full Fledged Brewing
Kick things off at a non-mandatory Captain’s Meeting Friday, August 22nd from 5 PM to 7 PM at Full Fledged Brewing Co. It will be the perfect chance to register, meet fellow anglers, and enjoy great local food, drinks, and merchandise sales. If participation is strong, a Calcutta auction will add even more excitement to the mix!
Saturday: Tournament Day
The action starts early at Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park with Livewell Check & Registration from 5 AM to 7 AM on August 23rd. Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park offers public access along the Missouri River and hosts community events. It’s the Iowa gateway to the 3,000-foot Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge, featuring stunning river views from 60 feet high. Kids will enjoy Belles' Play Garden, a river-themed playground near the River’s Edge Pavilion event space and the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge.
Tournament hours run from 7 AM to 3 PM! Even if you’re not competing, you won’t want to miss the weigh-ins at 3 PM at River’s Edge Park. It’s your chance to see monster catfish up close and cheer on the anglers as the winners are revealed. This event is more than a fishing competition—it’s a celebration of community, outdoor adventure, and the spirit of competition.
Whether you’re a participant or a spectator, Twisted Cat Outdoors promises a weekend full of excitement, camaraderie, and big catches! Interested in competiting? You can register here. View rules more information at the button below.
