Hunting in Iowa: 3 Animals to Hunt in the Spring

Iowa offers a wide variety of opportunities to those who wish to go hunting in the spring. Although there are not as many game animals to hunt in the springs as there are in the fall, spring hunts still give hunters the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors and take part in this exciting activity.

Here are a few examples of animals that are possible for hunters to pursue in the spring, according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

1. Spring Turkey Hunt
The spring turkey season starts in April and covers two weekends. It is an Iowa youth only season that gives those younger than 16 an opportunity to hunt upon buying a turkey license. The purpose of this turkey hunt is to give youth a chance to develop their skills with a mentor.

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The mentor must possess a valid turkey license for a spring season, be at least 18 years of age, and be with the youth at all times. The adult must not have more than one youth under supervision at any given time and the adult may not carry a firearm or bow.

Those who enjoy hunting in Iowa during the spring can take advantage of various turkey hunts. Iowa has four regular seasons which run April 13-16, April 17-21, April 22-28, and April 29 to May 17 respectively. Season dates are subject to change yearly. An archery only license is valid from April 13 to May 17. Hunters may purchase two spring turkey licenses with one being for Season 4. Hunting hours start one-half hour before sunrise and end at sunset.

2. Light Goose Conservation Order
This season begins on Jan. 17 and ends on April 15, giving people an extra opportunity to hunt in the spring. This hunt is good for white and blue phase snow geese, as well as Ross’ geese. Resident and nonresident hunters must possess a valid hunting license and pay the Iowa wildlife habitat and migratory game bird fee. It is not necessary to buy a federal duck stamp for this hunt. Shooting hours begin one-half hour before sunrise and end one-half hour after sunset. There is no daily bag or possession limits and hunters use of electronic callers as well as unplugged shotguns is allowed. General information on other topics can be found on the Iowa.gov website.

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3. Coyote, Groundhog, Pigeon
Coyote, groundhog, and pigeon hunting are popular in the spring, especially among young hunters. These animals can be hunted at any time during the year. There are no restrictions on shooting hours, daily possession, or total possession limits.

This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.

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