Are you ready for some hunting? Iowa's most popular hunting seasons are just around the corner! Here are tips and resources to help you get ready:
1. Still time for a hunter education class – If you, a family member or a friend still need to take a hunter safety course, you have options! Look at courses being offered across the state, or sign up for an online course at www.iowadnr.gov/huntered.
2. Or consider the NEW apprentice license – Know someone who has never hunted but wants to give it a try? Anyone aged 16 and older can hunt without taking a hunter safety class when they purchase the new apprentice license. For $30, this license can be purchased annually up to two years. The apprentice hunter must be under the direct supervision of an experienced, licensed adult hunter. Get more details.
3. Practice your skills at an Iowa gun range – The DNR manages several gun ranges across Iowa, as do several County Conservation Boards. Check out what is close to your local area and in surrounding counties.
4. Add an antlerless deer license – Extend your deer season by picking up a few more antlerless deer licenses – the first antlerless license is regular price, but each one after is only $13.00. Buy online or from your nearest vendor. And don't forget to register your harvest as required by law.
5. Scout it out – Whether hunting deer or ducks, knowing travel lanes, bedding areas, where they feed and when they fly will improve your chance for success. Time spent scouting pays dividends. Explore the Iowa Hunting Atlas to discover Iowa's public hunting areas.
6. Help protect wildlife and people – If you see illegal activity such as poaching or someone hunting near a residence, please report it quickly. You can help save lives and protect the resource. Timeliness of reporting is important - the 24-hour TIP phone number is (800) 532-2020, or go online to www.iowadnr.gov/tip. Tips can be anonymous!
7. Know the seasons – here's what's coming in October:
For a complete list of seasons, visit the DNR hunting seasons web page.
Deer & Turkery Archery: Open Oct. 1
Fall Turkey Gun: Open Oct. 16
Deer Early Muzzleloader: Open Oct. 14-22
Pheasant & Quail: Open Oct. 28
North Zone Duck & Goose: Open Oct. 14
South Zone Duck & Goose: Open Oct. 21
Missouri River Duck & Goose: Open Oct. 21