An iterative decoder dynamically controls the number of local iterations of error-correction decoding performed for each global iteration of channel detection. In so doing, the iterative decoder (i) limits the number of local iterations that are performed after error-correction decoding has likely encountered a trapping set and (ii) permits decoding to continue when error-correction decoding is on the path to converging on a valid codeword. To predict whether error-correction decoding is on the path to encountering a trapping set or converging on a valid codeword, a model is generated based on observed numbers of unsatisfied check nodes for a specified number of local iterations. For local iterations following the specified number of local iterations, the observed numbers of unsatisfied check nodes are then compared to the model to determine whether to continue or terminate local iterations of error-correction decoding.