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The Iowa Sportsman September 2025

In this Issue of The Iowa Sportsman September 2025:

Here is our Editor’s Statement for this month

Greetings Sportsmen and Sportswomen,

The time of year that all hunters and fishermen eagerly await is almost here! Shorter days and colder evenings can only mean one thing: fall is nearly upon us here in Iowa.

For all you bowhunters, I hope your broadheads are tuned, food plots are planted, and your tree stands and shooting lanes are checked and ready. Waterfowl hunters will be out on September 6th chasing teal, and dove hunters will be set up on the edge of sunflower fields September 1st, shooting passing doves. These early seasons are a fantastic way to enjoy hunting migrating birds without freezing and to get your lead dialed in for the other bird hunting seasons when they open. Don’t miss this month’s articles on dove hunting by Jessica Graham, waterfowl hunting Iowa by Shannon Rivers, and tree-stand safety by Jacob Dean. These editorials offer valuable insights and tips to help you kick off these early fall seasons.

As we head into fall, it’s worth noting that this is arguably the best time of year to fish in Iowa! Fish are actively feeding before the water cools and ice begins to form. Smallmouth and walleye, along with many other species, can be particularly active as water temperatures drop. Essentially, whatever you like to fish for will be on the bite. For some great tips to help you hook more fish this fall, be sure to check out Scott Reed’s smallmouth editorial and Ben Leal’s fall fishing Iowa editorial in the September issue of The Iowa Sportsman.

Last month, I mentioned opportunities available to Iowans during the late summer months. I took my own advice and headed to Northeast Iowa to fish while waiting for a client meeting. Even though the streams were clouded from the rain and conditions weren’t optimal, I wasn’t deterred. As the saying goes, “A day of bad fishing is still better than a good day at work,” and I had a great time. I caught four rainbows in a couple of hours and waded through some beautiful country in the Driftless Region of Iowa. Afterward, I stopped by the Iowa State Trout Hatchery in Decorah. I highly recommend visiting if you have a few minutes; seeing the huge broodstock is very entertaining. I highly recommend heading up to NE Iowa if you have a free day or weekend. It’s a great area with a lot of friendly people. There are many streams up in this area, so do a little research before you go. If you would like to try fly fishing while trout fishing up in the Driftless Region, Ben Leal has a great editorial this month on fly fishing for trout.

So, as we start to slide into early fall, make sure you are prepared for whatever outdoor activity you enjoy doing. Remember you owe it to any animal you hunt to be as ethically proficient as possible with your weapon of choice. Enjoy your time in the field or on the water this fall and get as many involved in our great Iowa outdoors as you can.

Make sure to check out this month’s trophy room salute to whitetail and don’t forget to look for the missing antler in this issue of THE IOWA SPORTSMAN!!!!!

Till next time, be kind and always pay it forward!!!!

God Bless.

Aaron

Here is last month’s issue check it out!

The Iowa Sportsman August 2025

Or if you are looking for our Cattle/Dairy side of things

Home – American Cattlemen

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Previous Issues

Iowa Sportsman March 2025

In This Issue of the Iowa Sportsman March 2025

Here is our Editor’s Statement of the month

Thanks for picking up The March issue of The Iowa Sportsman.

Learn the secrets of shed hunting on public ground from Kent Boucher. Kent is an avid hunter and one of the best shed hunters we’ve found. He tells us some of his secrets to finding and collecting several shed antlers. Later, Kent explores how leveraging prairie can significantly enhance wildlife habitat, benefiting both hunters and the environment.

In our Gundog Corner, Kyle Dana dives deep into the nutritional breakdown for your four-legged hunting companion. He also has another article where he shares his insights on proper range etiquette for both gun and archery enthusiasts, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

For the deer hunters, Aaron McKinney gives us some tips on clearing the ground and getting the first steps done for your spring food plots. Aaron McKinney shares his expert advice on planting spring food plots.

For those of us just waiting to get out turkey hunting, Nolan Rolston provides some tips he’s learned throughout the years for targeting spring turkeys. Nolan Rolston offers expert strategies for finding early toms.

Ben Leal guides you on what to target this March for fishing opportunities. Ben spends as much time as he can on the water and passes on some advice to us every month.

Writer Lane Rummelhart provides valuable tips on restoring your pond back to its prime, creating a sustainable pond that can be enjoyed for years to come.

Plus, don’t miss our comprehensive New Gear for 2025 section, featuring the latest and greatest in hunting and fishing equipment showcased at the recent ATA and Shot Show. Finally, get ready for the Deer Classic! Our guide will help you navigate the show floor and find the best deals. We’ll be there with a booth, so come visit us and say hello!

Here is Next Month’s Issue of the Iowa Sportsman

The Iowa Sportsman April 2025

Also here is Last month’s Issue

Iowa Sportsman February 2025

If your looking for our cattle or dairy side here you go

Home – American Dairymen

Home – American Cattlemen

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Iowa Sportsman February 2025

In This Issue of The Iowa Sportsman February 2025

Here is our Editor’s Statement for this issue

Thank you for picking up the February issue of “The Iowa Sportsman”. We are closing the door on winter and starting to focus on spring. This month, we explore the many opportunities this time of year offers, whether you’re enjoying the outdoors, honing your skills, or preparing for the seasons ahead.

In this month’s feature article, “Iowa Winter Wonderland”, we showcase the thrills of skiing, snowshoeing, winter camping, hiking, and sledding. From serene snow-covered trails to adrenaline-pumping slopes, Iowa transforms into a playground for outdoor enthusiasts during the colder months. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or a beginner looking for new activities, this piece will inspire you to embrace winter’s magic.

For the hunters among us, preparation doesn’t stop when hunting seasons close. Kyle Dana brings us a helpful guide on training your dog to shed hunt. If you’ve ever wanted to turn your loyal companion into a partner for finding shed antlers, this article is a must-read. Kyle shares practical advice for building your dog’s skills and confidence in this rewarding off-season pursuit. Speaking of sheds, Kent Boucher’s article, about finding shed antlers, dives into the art of locating and finding those antlers. Shed hunting is more than just a hobby; it’s a chance to find out which bucks made it through the season and learn about deer patterns.

For those already dreaming of spring and summer projects, Aaron McKinney’s comprehensive three-page feature on food plot planning will help you start your preparations now. He shares actionable tips on choosing the right seeds, designing plots for maximum impact, and creating the perfect habitat to attract and sustain wildlife throughout the year. This in-depth guide is perfect for anyone ready to enhance their hunting property.

Anglers will want to check out Ben Leal’s article, Upgrading Your Fishing Rods & Reels. Now is the perfect time to evaluate your gear and make upgrades for a successful fishing season. Ben’s advice will help you understand what to look for in your next setup, whether you’re replacing worn-out equipment or stepping up your game.

Kyle Dana has another article in our shooting corner. “Target Shooting Must-Haves” is packed with essential gear and tips for making the most of your time at the range.

Kent Boucher also brings us another delicious installment of wild game cooking. His recipes and techniques make it easy to turn your harvest into mouthwatering meals that your family and friends will love.

Finally, Donnie Acheson’s insightful comparison of thermal and infrared optics explores the advantages and limitations of each technology from a practical stand-point. He also offers some advice about getting your first night-coyote hunting optics.

We hope this issue of The Iowa Sportsman inspires you to make the most of Iowa’s winter season and prepare for the adventures ahead. Thank you for joining us!

Here is next month’s Issue of the Iowa Sportsman: March 2025

The Iowa Sportsman March 2025

Or if you are looking for last month’s issue, check it out here –

Iowa Sportsman January 2025

If you are looking for the Cattle/Dairy Side Here you are

Home – American Cattlemen

Home – American Dairymen

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Iowa Sportsman January 2025

In This Issue of the Iowa Sportsman January 2o25

Here is our Editors statement for this issue

Happy New Year Iowa sportsmen and women! As we close out the 2024 hunting season, we pause a moment to reflect on the past hunting seasons that are winding up. We hope these final weeks bring you rewarding moments in the field, and hang on to those memories made. For those of you that are just getting started, like our ice fishers and predator hunters, good luck! We wish you a safe, fun-filled season ahead. Iowa’s frozen lakes and rivers offer unmatched experiences, and we look forward to hearing tales of your winter catches. Share pictures of your hunts, fishing, and outdoor adventures with us.

This month, we’re excited to bring you articles to enhance every aspect of your outdoor pursuits. Dive into “Family Friendly Ice Destinations,” perfect for planning outings with loved ones, and take on the snow with Kyle Dana’s Gundog Corner where he shares “Tips for Hunting in the Snow.” For those already looking forward to next deer season, Aaron McKinney has put together a comprehensive planning guide for 2025. It’s easy to fall behind, so get your plan together now. Ben Leal covers must-try “January Ice Tactics,” while Shannon Rivers explores predator hunting in the depths of winter.

Other highlights include an update on CWD from Catherine Cummings, expert advice on muzzleloader loads from Ryan Graden, and practical tips on timber stand improvement from Lane Rumelhart. Plus, if you’re considering habitat work, our article on prescribed burning will walk you through its benefits for native warm-season grasses (NWSG). Our staff, have selected some of their favorite picks for this month’s Buyer’s Guide on processing equipment.

Here’s to a great start to 2025 and to making memories in the great outdoors.