By Andi Anderson
Iowa gears up for its popular deer hunting seasons, drawing over 100,000 hunters clad in blaze orange to pursue Iowa deer. The first deer gun season runs from December 2-6, followed by the second season from December 9-17.
State deer biologist Jace Elliott notes the significance of these seasons in managing the deer herd, with over half the total harvest usually occurring during these 14 days in December. The state's deer population remains stable to slightly increasing, except in parts of northwest, west central, and southwest Iowa.
In 2022, hunters reported 109,600 deer harvested, and this year, more than 25,000 deer have already been harvested, indicating a trend similar to the past two years.
Elliott expects a consistent harvest this year based on population surveys, suggesting ample opportunities for deer hunting across most Iowa regions, despite the impact of weather conditions on hunting success.
The gun seasons have evolved in terms of allowable firearms, now including rifles with specific bullet criteria. Iowa's hunting regulations list allowable cartridges, reflecting hunters' interest and inquiries.
The preferred method of hunting during gun seasons is evenly split between drive hunting and stationary hunting, as revealed by a recent deer hunter survey.
Notable changes include adjustments in antlerless deer quotas and new reporting requirements for harvested antlered deer, focusing on the length of the main antler beam.
Hunters are encouraged to utilize Iowa's online hunting atlas, showcasing public hunting lands, and participate in programs like Help Us Stop Hunger, facilitating deer donation for the Food Bank of Iowa.
With Iowa's anticipated deer hunting seasons approaching, hunters are reminded of reporting requirements and the state's efforts to ensure a sustainable deer herd while addressing hunger in local communities.
Photo Credit: pexels-jim-fawns
Categories: Iowa, Rural Lifestyle