Iowa offers a magnificent hunting experience in the northern region of the Midwestern United States. Iowa archery season includes options for wildlife like deer, pheasant, turkey, pheasant, and small game. You can purchase your license through an agent, online, or over the phone.
Permits and licenses are available for residents and non-residents, varying in price. After your successful hunt, register your game with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
Iowa (IA) Archery Season, 2022-2023
Iowa offers hunters several beneficial programs. The Habitat and Access Program (IHAP) requests private landowners open their property to the public for hunting opportunities. Hunters can access these locations between September 1 and May 31.
Plan your next trip with The State Hunting Atlas. Its interactive map displays over 600,000 acres of public land suitable for your hunting excursion. Wildlife Management Areas (WMA) include over 360,000 acres for trapping and hunting.
When does Archery Season Start in IA?
Iowa Deer Seasons
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Youth Season September 17-October 2
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Disabled Hunter Season September 17-October 2
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Archery Oct. 1-December 2 / December. 19-January 10
Deer hunters must purchase permits for every deer collected. In 2023, Iowa will host an Excess Tag January Antlerless season and Population Management January Antlerless season from January 11-22, 2023, with access by permit only.
Iowa Turkey Seasons
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Fall Archery October. 1-December 2 / December. 19-January 10
Iowa Small Game Seasons
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Youth Rooster Pheasant October 22-23
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Rooster Pheasant October 29-January 10
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Bobwhite Quail October 29-January 31
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Ruffed Grouse October 1-January 31
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Cottontail Rabbit September 3-February 28
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Fox/Gray Squirrel September 3-January 31
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Crow October. 15-November 30 / January 14-March 31
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Pigeon Open season
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Groundhog Open season
Please note: Special seasons, bag limits, and hunting regulations vary on animals and seasons.
What are the legal hunting hours in Iowa?
Hunting activities are permitted between 8 am to 4:30 pm only.
Hunting Licenses and Permits in IA
Hunters may have to complete a “Hunter Education Certificate” to legally obtain a permit or license. Visit the Iowa Department of Natural Resources for more information.
Iowa Resident
Residents have lived in Iowa for at least 90 days. Active-duty military personnel and non-resident full-time students attending educational institutions in Iowa are considered residents. All residents aged 16 or older must purchase a resident hunting license and pay the Wildlife Habitat Fee. Additional permits or licenses may be required.
Non-residents
Non-residents must purchase a non-resident license and pay the Wildlife Habitat Fee. Additional permits and licenses may be required.
Youth Hunting License
Residents under 16 do not need a license and don’t have to pay the Wildlife Habitat Fee. Youth hunters must be accompanied by an adult. Non-resident youth hunters must have a non-resident youth hunting license and pay the Wildlife Habitat Fee.
Senior Hunting License
Residents aged 65 and older with household incomes below federal poverty guidelines can apply for a free senior hunting license. The same applies to disabled residents.
Veteran and Military License
Active-duty military members stationed in Iowa may acquire a resident hunting license. Resident veterans with service-connected disabilities are eligible for the Veteran Lifetime Hunting and Fishing License.
Migratory Waterfowl Requirements
Hunters 16 or older must obtain a Federal Duck Stamp for hunting migratory waterfowl. They must also pay the Iowa Migratory Game Bird Fee. Hunters must have proof of participation in the Harvest Information Program (HIP).
License Expiration
Hunting licenses are available from January 1, 2023, and expire on January 10, 2024.
Check out our guide 30+ Hunting Rules to Keep You Safe while bowhunting in the wild.
