Iowa Hunting

Iowa Hunting Season

Explore the complete guide to Iowa hunting resources, including state regulations, public hunting lands, outfitter directories, and gear recommendations for a successful hunt.

Iowa Hunting Regulations

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) provides an annual Hunting Regulations Guide with detailed rules, bag limits, and season dates for game species like deer, turkey, and upland birds.

IA Hunting Seasons Calendar

Stay informed about Iowa’s hunting seasons, which include:

  • Deer: Archery, shotgun, and late muzzleloader seasons.
  • Turkey: Spring and fall hunting seasons with specific tags required.
  • Waterfowl: Ducks, geese, and other migratory bird seasons.
  • Small Game: Seasons for pheasants, rabbits, and squirrels.

Check the official Iowa DNR Hunting Seasons page for the latest updates.

Iowa Hunting Seasons 2025-2026

Note: The official 2025-2026 hunting seasons in Iowa have not yet been announced. The following information is based on available data for 2025 and the 2024-2025 seasons, which may be similar. Always check the Iowa DNR website for the most up-to-date information.

Big Game

Deer (Based on 2024-2025 Seasons)

  • Archery: October 1 – December 6 and December 23 – January 10
  • Muzzleloader: October 12-20 (residents only) and December 23 – January 10
  • Shotgun: December 7-11 and December 14-22
  • Youth: September 21 – October 6
  • Disabled Hunter: September 21 – October 6
  • Nonresident Holiday Season: December 24 – January 2

Turkey

Spring (2025)

  • Youth (Residents Only): April 11 – 13, 2025
  • Season 1: April 14 – 17, 2025
  • Season 2: April 18 – 22, 2025
  • Season 3: April 23 – 29, 2025
  • Season 4: April 30 – May 18, 2025
  • Resident Archery-Only: April 14 – May 18, 2025

Fall (2025)

  • Residents Only: Gun/Bow: October 14 – December 6; Archery Only: October 1 – December 6 and December 23 – January 10, 2025

Small Game

  • Pheasant: Youth: October 19 – 20; Rooster: October 26 – January 10, 2025
  • Bobwhite Quail: October 26 – January 10, 2025
  • Ruffed Grouse: October 5 – January 31, 2025
  • Gray Partridge: October 12 – January 31, 2025
  • Rabbit (Cottontail Only): August 31 – February 28, 2025
  • Squirrel (Fox and Gray): August 31 – January 31, 2025
  • Crow: October 15 – November 30 and January 14 – March 31, 2025
  • Groundhog: Continuous Open Season
  • Pigeon: Continuous Open Season
  • Coyote: Continuous Open Season

Migratory Birds (Based on 2024-2025 Seasons)

  • Dark Geese & Light Geese (North Zone): December 14 – January 11, 2025
  • Dark Geese & Light Geese (Central Zone): December 21 – January 18, 2025
  • Dark Geese & Light Geese (South Zone): December 28 – January 25, 2025
  • Light Geese Conservation Order: January 26 – May 1, 2025

Important Notes:

  • The above dates are based on available information for 2025 and the 2024-2025 seasons. The official 2025-2026 hunting seasons are not yet available.
  • Hunters should check the Iowa DNR website regularly for updates on season dates, regulations, and licensing requirements.
  • Nonresident spring turkey applications are typically available from January 1 to the last Sunday in January, with the application available in December. Check Nonresident Application for details.

Public and Private Hunting Lands

Public Hunting Lands

Iowa offers diverse public hunting opportunities, including:

  • Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs): Managed areas for wildlife conservation and hunting.
  • State Forests: Stephens State Forest and Loess Hills State Forest are popular destinations.

Explore the DNR’s interactive map to find public hunting areas near you.

Private Land Access Programs

The **Iowa Habitat and Access Program (IHAP)** allows hunters to access private lands enrolled in the program. These lands are marked and open to public hunting.

Hunting Licenses and Permits

Hunters in Iowa must purchase the appropriate licenses and permits through the Iowa DNR licensing system. Options include:

  • Resident and non-resident hunting licenses
  • Deer and turkey tags
  • Waterfowl and upland game permits

Outfitters and Hunting Guides

Iowa has several licensed outfitters specializing in deer, turkey, and waterfowl hunts. While the state does not maintain a public directory, hunters can search online or contact local hunting associations for verified guides.

Gear Recommendations for Iowa Hunts

Prepare for Iowa’s varied landscapes with the right equipment:

  • Clothing: Layered, insulated gear for cold seasons and lightweight gear for early fall.
  • Footwear: Durable boots for wetland areas and upland hunting terrain.
  • Hunting Equipment: Blinds, decoys, and calls for waterfowl; tree stands for deer hunting.

Conservation and Ethical Hunting

Support Iowa’s conservation efforts by adhering to ethical hunting practices and participating in programs like IHAP. Hunting license fees directly support wildlife management and habitat improvement across the state.

Hunting Tips for Iowa

Maximize your success with these tips:

  • Scout public and private hunting areas ahead of the season.
  • Understand species behavior, such as pheasant habitat preferences and turkey roosting patterns.
  • Check weather forecasts and prepare for changing conditions.

Plan Your Next Iowa Hunt

Whether you’re chasing trophy bucks, gobbling turkeys, or flushing upland birds, Iowa has something for every hunter. Stay informed, gear up, and make your hunt unforgettable!