The Guide to the Iowa Hunting Seasons 2025

You'll also find plenty of waterfowl, upland bird, and turkey hunting opportunities in Iowa. So, if you hunt different types of wild game throughout the year, you're in the right place to hunt in this state.

Ready to plan your hunting year for the Iowa hunting seasons? This guide will help you plan around season dates, bag limits, hunting licenses, and more. We'll also help you find the best public or private land for a challenging and fun hunt.

Why Do Hunters Hunt in Iowa?

Whitetail, whitetail, whitetail.

Not only does Iowa have a large deer population, but the state has hundreds of thousands of acres of land to keep them well-fed. There are also ample opportunities to hunt other types of wild game, including birds and coyotes.

So, whether you live in the state and plan a deer hunt every year or travelling to Iowa for an out-of-state hunt is on your to-do list this year, getting out with your bow or firearm is sure to be rewarding.

Where Should I Hunt?

Iowa provides plenty of public land and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) for hunting. Additionally, more than 32,000 acres are accessible through the Iowa Habitat and Access Program. This program provides funding to private landowners for improvements to their habitats and access to public land through their properties. 

You'll experience rolling hills or flat plains, depending on where you hunt.

With the HuntWise app, you can scout the land and identify boundaries to find the best places (and permissions) for your hunt. Our 3-D maps help you visualize the terrain so you're prepared no matter the animals you hunt or where you trek to tag out.

When Can I Hunt?

The Iowa hunting seasons are not complicated, making it simple to plan your hunt schedule throughout the year for what you want to hunt.

Note that the hunting information we provide in this guide is the latest available from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (Iowa DNR). We'll update this guide with the latest season information as new details become available.

We also recommend checking official resources for the latest hunting season dates as you plan your hunts, as information can change.
 

What Do I Need to Know About Regulations for Hunting Season in Iowa?

All hunters born after January 1, 1972, must pass a hunter education course before getting a hunting license. Then, depending on the game you plan to hunt, you'll need the corresponding license.

Some licenses require an application, so be sure you know the dates to submit your application for your best chance of getting a license for the game you want to hunt. If you're hunting in Iowa from out of state, make sure you know when and what you can hunt with a nonresident license.

When you're ready to get your license, you can purchase online or through a local retailer.  

What are the Bag Limits?

How many whitetail, turkey, or pheasants can you bring home this year? To comply with the laws for the Iowa hunting seasons, make sure you know the bag limits for every animal you plan to hunt. 

Here's an overview of the state's bag limits.

What Else Do I Need Before I Can Hunt?

Whether you're excited about spring turkey season in Iowa or you wait patiently for deer season, you need the right gear!

Successful hunts require a sharp hunting knife, good binoculars, the right clothing (depending on the season), and a good rifle for firearm seasons.

Remember: You can save money by getting geared up as a HuntWise app user! Use exclusive gear discounts through our app partners to save hundreds on gear.

Tag Out During the Iowa Hunting Seasons with HuntWise

We hope this guide helps you plan your hunts in Iowa this year — but don't forget to check official resources for the latest details when finalizing your plans.

What else do you need for success? The HuntWise hunting app! Our 3-D maps and layers give you an advantage over other hunters and increase your chances of a successful day in the field.

Plus, Elite subscribers have access to more tools in the app, including up to 15 days of animal activity and weather forecasting.

Download the app and start your free trial. You'll be ahead of the game (and other hunters) for opening day!