Bow Hunting in Iowa

[Code-Man]

Has anyone gone down there? I'm checking out the application and wow what a difference then MN for getting a bow tag. Anyone ever drawn one before? Just wondering what I'm getting into because there only allowing 80 out of state bow tags in the area. Is this normal to have out of state applicant numbers that low? I've never hunted out of the state so just trying to figure out what I'm getting into before hand.

[HuntFishDude]

I starting buying a preference point last year ( in a few states) and will again this year so in 2009 I should be all set to have a better chance at drawing it. I have not tried drawing any tag yet. I believe it was $20. Are planning a DIY hunt? Public land? I was looking at an outfitter down there over $2K for the hunt but they did have some decent luck in the past...

[Code-Man]

I have a buddy who lives down there so I wouldn't be looking for an outfitter since he's already "hired" Why have you been buying preference points and not applying? I'm just hoping to get drawn I looked down in Iowa and saw Bill Jordan, Michael Waddel and another Team Realtree Member got denied...makes ya wonder sometimes. My dad and group of them applied out in WY for the first time for a bull elk tag. The group got drawn first time applying and they got a statewide bull elk tag.

[ChompChomp_YANK]

The more prefrance points you have the better your odds in drawing a tag. Every time you apply for a tag and dont draw, you will get a pref. point for the next years drawing. All states are different some states you can draw a tag every year and some it might take 10 years, it also depends on what species (deer, elk, bear) or how you are going to take the animal (gun, bow, muzzeloader). It also depends on how many tags are available in each area, some have more than others. So if you are appling in a area with only 80 tags it might take awhile. Good luck!!

[fishermn]

I have been considering a DIY hunt down there, as well. I too was thinking of getting a few years worth of preference points saved up to help with getting drawn. I'd be interested in talking more with anyone who is considering this or who has done this. Also am considering several other states, and would like to hear opinions or experiences from others.

[snowgoose]

I don't know that it is harder to get a bow tag than a shotgun season tag but if I were you I would apply for a tag every year. I have been drawn for a tag in Iowa 4 out of 5 years that I have appllied. Once again that is for the shotgun season.

Good Luck in Iowa if you get drawn. I have seen some real beauties down there.

I have a preferance point this year after not getting drawn last year. I sure am looking forward to my return trip.

[Shoot2Kill]

A NR Iowa bow tag is a draw about every 3 years. Not everyone - even those big wigs will get drawn every year unless they are given a "govenors tag" which is total [PoorWordUsage] but a totally different story.

The low numbers of NR bow tags are put in place for a reason and Iowa residents hope like heck they stay that way so more outfitters don't move in, buy or lease up everything they can find, and run the average joe out of his lifelong hunting spots - it's happening all the time.

Apply every year man, you'll get one eventually. Be prepared though....if you go down to Iowa, do your homework, and hunt in the right place you'll be ruined for life and not want to hunt deer anywhere else. It's that good down there for quite a few reasons.....