With its prime location on the Mighty Mississippi, Burlington is the perfect landing from which to launch your next river adventure.
The Mississippi River has long been recognized for top catfishing in the Midwest. The wide, winding channel near Burlington is home to healthy populations of flathead, blue, and channel catfish, each capable of growing to trophy-worthy size. Anglers from across the region come to explore its backwaters, wing dams, and river bends, where the fishing can be as thrilling as the scenery is beautiful.
Want to see how the pros do it? Burlington plays host to one of the premier catfishing events on the circuit: Twisted Cat Outdoors. On Saturday, September 6, elite anglers from across the Midwest will converge on the riverfront for a full day of competitive fishing. Teams will launch in the early morning and spend the day working their favorite spots. After hours of casting, the competitors will return to the Port of Burlington for the weigh-in between 4 and 6 PM. Spectators can gather south of the Port to watch as massive catfish are brought to the scales, with plenty of suspense and excitement as the biggest catches of the day are awarded.
Have a little one interested in fishing? The event also makes room for younger anglers to join in the fun. From noon to 3 PM, the Burlington riverfront will feature fishing-related activities for kids. These hands-on experiences help inspire a love of the outdoors in the next generation, while families can grab a bite to eat and enjoy the scenic riverfront.
When the rods are packed away, Burlington offers plenty of ways to round out an angling adventure. From historic downtown shops along Jefferson Street to unique dining spots – many with riverfront views - visitors can unwind and share stories of the day’s biggest catch. Parks and scenic overlooks give guests a chance to enjoy the Mississippi in a different light, including Mosquito Park, which offers the best view of the river in the area.
Greater Burlington is more than a fishing stop, it’s a destination for true river rats. Whether you’re competing in the Twisted Cat Outdoors tournament, cheering from the crowd, or just spending a quiet morning on the water, Burlington makes a perfect base for any catfishing adventure. Grab your rod and reel and plan your trip… the big ones really are out there waiting.
