Small Game Seasons Begin Soon Across Iowa

As summer transitions into fall, hunters across Iowa are gearing up for the start of the small game hunting season. With abundant populations of rabbits, squirrels, and mourning doves, the season promises excitement and ample opportunities for both seasoned hunters and newcomers alike. My vote for aspiring, first-time hunters and kids is definitely squirrels. It's how I got my start hunting. They're abundant, and quite tasty when slow cooked in cream of mushroom soup. YUM!

The cottontail rabbit season kicks off statewide on August 31st and runs through February 28th, 2025. With a daily bag limit of 10 rabbits and a possession limit of 20, hunters can expect a fruitful season, especially in the southern half of the state, where rabbit populations are particularly strong.

Hunting rabbits is an excellent way for novice hunters to develop essential skills. The most popular method involves walking through brushy areas near crop fields with a shotgun during the early morning or evening. Hunting rabbit can be a mixed bag. In some instances, rabbits will sit completely still and make filling your quota easy, and in other instances they will take off like a shot. A moving rabbit can be a very tough thing to hit. While blaze orange clothing is not required, it is recommended for safety during any hunting sessions. Shooting hours for rabbits runs from sunrise to sunset.

On the same day, squirrel season opens, allowing hunters to pursue both fox and gray squirrels until January 31st, 2025. Squirrel hunting is my vote for easy laid back hunting and fun. It offers a great opportunity to practice and refine developing hunting skills. The daily bag limit for squirrels is six, with a possession limit of 12. Squirrels are commonly found in areas rich with hickory trees, oaks, and walnuts. Hunters can enjoy the flexibility of pursuing squirrels throughout the day. Early morning hunts are most productive, as squirrels are most active before the heat sets in. Even better, young hunters and children can get their start here with a higher-power styled bb or pellet gun. It's a great way for kids to learn proper firearm safety and use. I bagged my first squirrel at just 8 years old.

Mourning dove season begins on September 1st and runs through November 29th. With a daily bag limit of 15 and a possession limit of 45, dove hunting is a fast-paced, accessible activity that appeals to hunters of all skill levels. Shooting hours for doves start half an hour before sunrise and continue until sunset. Iowa’s sunflower and wheat fields are prime locations for dove hunting, with many public hunting areas available across the state. Hunters are always advised to scout fields and plan hunts ahead of time. Doves are an abundant food source across the state.

For those seeking public hunting areas, Iowa offers an online hunting atlas that provides detailed information on over 600,000 acres of land open to hunting. Additionally, the Iowa Habitat and Access Program (IHAP) grants hunters access to private land from September 1st to May 31st, expanding the opportunities available.

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It's important for hunters to be aware of regulations, such as the requirement for dove hunters to use a shotgun that holds no more than three shells. Non-toxic shot is required for hunting all game in Iowa (except deer & turkey). All dove hunters must also register with the Harvest Information Program (HIP) before heading out into the field.

As Iowa's small game season begins, hunters can look forward to the challenges and rewards of the hunt. Whether pursuing rabbits, squirrels, or mourning doves, this season offers something for everyone. For those planning to hunt pheasant, the statewide season will open on October 26th, adding even more excitement to the hunting calendar.

With a variety of game and extensive public access, Iowa continues to be a prime destination for small game hunting, and I'm looking forward to walking Ringneck Ridge soon.