Iowa Sportsman July 2025

Iowa Sportsman July 2025

Summer is Here!

It’s hard to believe that we are headed towards July. It feels like just yesterday we were talking about spring turkey hunts and now the dog days of summer are upon us. July in Iowa means long days, warm nights, and endless opportunities to enjoy everything our great state has to offer outdoors.

I hope you’re all making the most of it. Whether you’re casting a line on one of Iowa’s beautiful lakes or rivers, camping at a state park, or just gathering around a bonfire with friends and family, this is the season to make those memories. There’s something truly special about summer nights under the stars after a day spent in nature, right here in Iowa.

In these pages:

This issue of The Iowa Sportsman is packed with content to help you maximize your summer adventures. We’ve got tips for better fishing, advice on working with your gun dog, and stories that’ll get you ready for deer season 2025.

Fishing

Summer in Iowa is an active time. For our fishermen and women, Ben Leal continues to write tips in our “Fishing Iowa” column. This month, he gives us essential pointers as to what is biting and where in July providing the insights you need to make every cast count. If you’re chasing those bigger fish, don’t miss our expert take on Catfish Tips promising thrilling action on the water.

Beyond the fishing holes, we dive deep into preparing for the seasons ahead and refining your skills. Kyle Dana offers invaluable advice to level up your gun dog, so flip to the back portion of our magazine and learn his tips for ensuring your canine companion is at their peak. 

Deer Hunting

For those focused on deer hunting, Aaron McKinney explores the critical role of water holes, and gives us some tips on making one yourself. Lane Rummelhart walks you through “Step-by-Step DIY Kill Plots” that you can work on before deer season gets here. 

Outdoorsmen & Women

We also recognize the importance of the next generation of outdoorsmen and women. Lane Rummelhart shares crucial insights on “Introducing Youth to Shooting Sports,” fostering responsible and safe participation for our future sportsmen. Next, for those moments when you want to explore Iowa’s diverse offerings beyond the hunt and fish, Ben Leal takes us on a delightful Winery & distillery tour highlighting a few unique local experiences in our state. 

Lastly, don’t forget to check out our buyer’s guide for information on purchasing your next blind. As always, this issue is packed with advice, tips, and everything you need to maximize your enjoyment of Iowa’s outdoors. 

From all of us at The Iowa Sportsman, we wish you a truly fantastic summer filled with tight lines, successful scouting and new memories in the great Iowa outdoors.

In This Issue

• Mastering Summer Catfish
• Fishing Iowa: Iowa’s Hot Spots
• Do It Yourself: Iowa Kill Plots
• Introducing Youth: to Shooting Sports
• Whitetails 365: Drought, Deer & The Looming Threat of EHD
• County Spotlight: Iowa Fishing Destinations
• Blind Buyers Guide: Clear Sight Hunting Blinds