Discover Small Game

Iowa offers both in person and virtual learning opportunities, as well as a host of video and print resources. These events and resources will aid you as you learn not only about the different small game species in Iowa, but different hunting tactics, as well as how to scout and find suitable hunting land. Events are being planned and will be posted as they are available. In the meantime, please utilize the online hunting videos found below.

In-Person Events

Statewide Classes & Events Online Hunting Videos

Learn to Hunt Iowa Video Series

Iowa law requires that anyone born after January 1, 1972 must be certified in hunter education before they are eligible to purchase an Iowa hunting license. Iowa recognizes hunter education certificates issued by another state and some foreign nations.

There are three ways to complete hunter education. The first option is to take a traditional course. These in-person classes are typically taught March 1 - November 15 each year by volunteer instructors. The in-person class are often 8-10 hours of instruction and demonstration focused on safe firearm use, hunter ethics, game identification, and conservation management, followed by a multiple choice test.

The second option is a hybrid format. This option is traditionally attended by persons under 18 or individuals with busy schedules. The student completes all course work online at www.hunter-ed.com/iowa. When the online work is completed, the student will print off a voucher and then attend a 4 hour in-person field day. During the field day, students recap their learning, have hands-on instruction, learn about Iowa laws and complete a multiple choice test. To find upcoming field day classes, visit gooutdoorsiowa.com

The third option is completed 100% online. This options is designed for persons over the age of 18. Students register and pay for the course at www.hunter-ed.com/iowa.

Apprentice Hunting License

Looking to go hunting with another licensed adult mentor? The apprentice hunting license allows hunters age 16 and older to bypass the hunter education requirement for purchasing a hunting license while they hunt under the direct supervision of a licensed hunter. You may purchase the apprentice hunting license up to two times without having completed hunter education.

Apprentice Hunting License Info

Iowa DNR Hunting Atlas
The Iowa DNR created a hunting atlas for you to view public hunting locations across the state. This interactive map shows all lands (wildlife management areas, state forests, county conservation board management areas, Army Corps of Engineers, habitat and access program and some U.S. Fish and Wildlife refuges) open to public hunting in Iowa, totaling over 721,806 acres. The hunting atlas also gives basic information about those areas such as: acres, general habitat description, expected species and links to more information and maps, if available. It will also tell a user what hunting zones any area of the state falls into. Check it out to help you plan your next hunt!

Iowa Habitat and Access Program
The Iowa Habitat and Access Program has grown to nearly 32,000 acres, significantly increasing the amount of land available to hunters in Iowa. These opportunities are thanks to landowners who participate in the Iowa Habitat and Access (IHAP) program. Landowners receive funding and expertise for habitat improvements when they enroll in the program, and in turn allow public access to their land for hunting.

Iowa DNR Wildlife Management Areas
Public hunting and wildlife management area maps for additional hunting areas.

Iowa DNR Shooting Ranges
The DNR offers several public shooting ranges across the state which offer hunters a place to practice shooting safely and conveniently.