DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) – Fishing in Iowa has improved significantly over the past three decades thanks to efforts the state and other groups have made. The Des Moines Register reports the improvement is especially noticeable when it comes to the prized game fish of walleye and trout.

Today, 42 streams in Iowa are sustaining trout populations. Thirty years ago only five streams in the state had self-sustaining trout populations. Officials say a variety of efforts by the state Department of Natural Resources, environmental groups and property owners have helped.

For instance, reducing the amount of soil that gets washed into streams and rivers has helped improve the habitat for fish. The improved fishing conditions will likely be popular in Iowa because 46 percent of the state’s residents say they fish.