When is the First Shotgun Season in Iowa?

ByBuffalo Rifles Blog

When Is the First Shotgun Season in Iowa?

The first shotgun season in Iowa is a time-honored tradition for many hunters. It marks the beginning of the fall hunting season and provides an opportunity to bag a variety of gamebirds, including pheasants, quail, and doves.

The first shotgun season in Iowa typically begins in mid-September and runs for a few weeks. The exact dates vary from year to year, so be sure to check the Iowa Department of Natural Resources website for the most up-to-date information.

During the first shotgun season, hunters are allowed to use shotguns to hunt gamebirds on public and private lands. However, there are a number of regulations that hunters must follow, such as bag limits and hunting hours.

For more information on the first shotgun season in Iowa, please visit the Iowa Department of Natural Resources website.

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Date Time Location
September 25, 2022 8:00 AM Deer Creek State Park
September 26, 2022 9:00 AM Wapsipinicon State Park
September 27, 2022 10:00 AM Yellow River State Park

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Shotgun hunting is a popular pastime in Iowa, and for good reason. The state is home to a variety of waterfowl species, including ducks, geese, and doves. Shotgun hunting is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise while also harvesting some delicious game.

This guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about shotgun hunting in Iowa, including season dates, bag limits, and types of shotguns allowed. We’ll also cover where to hunt shotgun in Iowa, and how to stay safe while you’re out in the field.

Shotgun Hunting Seasons in Iowa

The shotgun hunting season in Iowa is divided into two parts: waterfowl season and dove season. Waterfowl season runs from September 1 through January 31, and dove season runs from September 1 through October 31.

The specific dates and bag limits for each species vary, so be sure to check the Iowa DNR website for the latest regulations.

Types of Shotguns Allowed

Any shotgun that is legal for hunting in Iowa is allowed for use during shotgun hunting season. This includes shotguns with a barrel length of at least 18 inches and a maximum of 30 inches.

Shotguns with a magazine capacity of more than three shells are not allowed for waterfowl hunting. However, they are allowed for dove hunting.

Shotgun Safety

Shotgun hunting is a safe activity, but it is important to take precautions to avoid accidents. Here are a few safety tips:

  • Always wear a safety harness when hunting from a tree stand.
  • Never point your shotgun at anything you don’t intend to shoot.
  • Be sure of your target before you pull the trigger.
  • Keep your shotgun unloaded when not in use.

Where to Hunt Shotgun in Iowa

There are a number of public hunting areas in Iowa where you can hunt shotgun. These areas are managed by the Iowa DNR and offer a variety of hunting opportunities.

You can also hunt shotgun on private hunting properties. If you’re not sure where to find a private hunting property, you can contact the Iowa DNR for a list of landowners who allow hunting on their property.

Hunting with a Guide

If you’re new to shotgun hunting, or if you’re just not sure where to start, you may want to consider hiring a guide. A guide can help you find the best hunting spots, and they can also teach you the basics of shotgun hunting.

There are a number of guides who operate in Iowa. You can find a list of guides on the Iowa DNR website.

Shotgun hunting is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise while also harvesting some delicious game. By following the tips in this guide, you can have a safe and successful shotgun hunting season in Iowa.

Additional Resources

  • [Iowa DNR Hunting Regulations](https://www.iowadnr.gov/Hunting/Regulations)
  • [Iowa DNR Shotgun Hunting Guide](https://www.iowadnr.gov/Hunting/Waterfowl/Waterfowl-RegulationsShotguns)
  • [Iowa DNR Public Hunting Areas](https://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/Hunting/Public-Hunting-Areas)
  • [Iowa DNR Private Hunting Properties](https://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/Hunting/Private-Hunting-Properties)
  • [Iowa DNR Hunting with a Guide](https://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/Hunting/Hunting-with-a-Guide)

When Is First Season Shotgun In Iowa?

The first shotgun season in Iowa is for waterfowl and runs from September 25 to November 27. This season is open to all hunters with a valid hunting license.

How to Hunt Shotgun in Iowa

There are a few things you need to do to prepare for a successful shotgun hunt in Iowa.

  • Scout for ducks and geese. This is the most important part of hunting waterfowl. You need to know where the birds are before you can start hunting them. Scouting can be done by looking for signs of waterfowl, such as droppings, feathers, or tracks. You can also use a duck call to attract ducks to your location.
  • Set up your blind. A blind is a structure that you can use to conceal yourself from the ducks. Blinds can be made of a variety of materials, such as natural vegetation, cardboard boxes, or camouflaged fabric.
  • Call ducks and geese. Calling ducks and geese is a great way to attract them to your location. There are a variety of duck calls available, so you can choose one that sounds like the species of duck you are trying to attract.

What to Expect When Hunting Shotgun in Iowa

When hunting shotgun in Iowa, you can expect to encounter a variety of weather conditions. The weather can change quickly in Iowa, so it is important to be prepared for anything.

  • Cold weather. The weather in Iowa can be cold, especially in the early morning and late evening. Make sure you dress in layers so that you can stay warm.
  • Windy weather. The wind can be a challenge when hunting waterfowl. It can make it difficult to see the ducks and geese, and it can also make it difficult to call them in.
  • Rainy weather. Rainy weather can also be a challenge when hunting waterfowl. It can make it difficult to see the ducks and geese, and it can also make it difficult to stay warm.

Safety Tips

When hunting shotgun in Iowa, it is important to follow all safety precautions.

  • Always wear a hunter orange vest or hat. This will help other hunters see you and avoid accidents.
  • Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to other hunters and be careful not to shoot in their direction.
  • Never drink alcohol while hunting. Alcohol impairs your judgment and can make you more likely to have an accident.

Hunting shotgun in Iowa can be a rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of having a successful hunt.

When is the first shotgun season in Iowa?

The first shotgun season in Iowa typically begins on the third Saturday of September and ends on the second Sunday of January. However, specific dates may vary depending on the county. For more information, please visit the Iowa Department of Natural Resources website.

What are the bag limits for the first shotgun season in Iowa?

The bag limits for the first shotgun season in Iowa are as follows:

  • Ducks: 6 per day, 15 in possession
  • Geese: 5 per day, 10 in possession
  • Mourning doves: 15 per day, 30 in possession
  • Quail: 15 per day, 30 in possession
  • Pheasants: 10 per day, 20 in possession
  • Rabbits: 10 per day, 20 in possession
  • Squirrels: 10 per day, 20 in possession

What are the legal hunting hours for the first shotgun season in Iowa?

The legal hunting hours for the first shotgun season in Iowa are from 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset.

What are the safety rules for the first shotgun season in Iowa?

The following safety rules are in effect for the first shotgun season in Iowa:

  • All hunters must wear a hunter orange vest or hat.
  • All hunters must be at least 16 years old.
  • All hunters must have a valid hunting license.
  • All hunters must know the game laws and regulations.
  • All hunters must be aware of their surroundings and be careful not to shoot at anything they do not intend to kill.

Where can I find more information about the first shotgun season in Iowa?

For more information about the first shotgun season in Iowa, please visit the following resources:

  • [Iowa Department of Natural Resources website](https://www.iowadnr.gov/)
  • [Iowa Hunting and Trapping Regulations](https://www.iowadnr.gov/Portals/idnr/uploads/documents/regulations/hunting_trapping_regulations.pdf)

    the first shotgun season in Iowa is a time-honored tradition that allows hunters to enjoy the great outdoors and pursue their passion for hunting. By following the tips in this article, you can ensure that you have a safe and successful season. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy the first shotgun season in Iowa!

Here are some key takeaways from the article:

  • The first shotgun season in Iowa begins on September 25th and runs through January 31st.
  • Hunters must be at least 12 years old to participate in the season.
  • The daily bag limit is two birds per day.
  • Hunters must wear hunter orange during the season.
  • It is important to be aware of the local regulations and to practice safe hunting.

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