(KIWA Staff Photo)Iowa (RI) — The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is taking public comments on a proposed rule change that would give Iowa residents priority over non-residents during the first week of pheasant season and limit when out-of-state hunters can pursue small game.
The DNR’s Chris Ensminger says the agency has been working on the proposal since 2021.
The change would keep non-residents out of the first week of pheasant season and require them to select limited hunting windows.
The Natural Resource Commission has approved the change for public comment. Commissioners noted that state areas near Iowa’s borders often see heavy out-of-state use. Esminger says most visiting hunters won’t be affected.
Non-residents could buy an additional 14-day license if they want more time, and a five-day license is also available.
Esminger says squirrel hunting has also created concerns in northeast Iowa during the early bow-hunting season.
He says they hope the change will ease pressure on bow hunters. The adjustments do not affect deer or turkey seasons.
The D-N-R is taking comments on the rule change through September 22nd. Written comments may be submitted, and a public hearing will also be held that day. The NRC will vote on final approval after the hearing. The changes would take effect beginning with the 2027 hunting seasons.
