Early teal hunting season looks promising for Iowa hunters since a wet summer has kept Iowa's wetland areas filled with water. Now, according to DNR waterfowl biologists, it's up to weather and migration.
Here are tips for a successful hunt:
- Teal are the smallest migratory waterfowl and tend to fly erratically. Take time to properly identify birds with this helpful teal guide; remember, teal are the only bird that can be harvested in this special season.
- Scout before you go. Teal prefer shallow water so it's important to look beforehand for good habitat. Explore the DNR hunting atlas for public wetland areas.
- Take a kid with you. Teal are a great bird to hunt with kids or novices because there tends to be lots of action and the weather is still nice. Check out Iowa's migratory game bird regulations, and enjoy your time in the field!
NEW season dates for 2016:
North & South Zones -- Sept. 3-11
Missouri River Zone -- Sept. 3-18
Shooting hours: Sunrise to sunset (this is different than duck season hours, which start a 1/2 hour before sunrise)
Shot: Nontoxic shot required
Bag Limits: Daily limit of 6, possession limit of 18
Licenses/fees: Small game license and habitat fee, migratory gamebird fee, federal duck stamp if required
More information: www.iowadnr.gov/teal