Issues
Check Out Our Current Issue!

The Iowa Sportsman October 2025
In this issue of the Iowa Sportsman October 2025
- 5 Easy Mistakes to Make Fly Fishing for Trout in the Fall
- 10 Beginner Tips for Hunting Iowa Geese
- Deer Scents and Lures
- Early October Hunting Strategies
- Training your Dog to Blood-trail Deer
- Planning a Weeklong Pheasant Trip
- Shooting Optics for the Iowa Hunter
- Top 10 Bowhunting Destinations
- Whitetails 365: Mastering Scent Control
Here is Last months Issue of the Iowa Sportsman
Looking for the Cattle/Dairy side of things
Click Here To View This Issue Now!
Previous Issues

The Iowa Sportsman April 2025
In This Issue of The Iowa Sportsman April 2025
- Thriving Bird Habitats in Iowa
- Fishing Iowa – Walleye Tackle & Tricks
- Whitetails 365 – Growing Giant Whitetails
- Maximizing Native Warm Season Grasses
- Turkey Season – Getting Youth Involved
- Equipment for Managing Your Own Acreage
Editor’s Statement – April Issue of The Iowa Sportsman
Thank you for picking up the April issue of The Iowa Sportsman! Spring has officially arrived, and with it comes one of the most exciting times of the year—turkey season. As you hit the timber, we want to remind everyone to put safety first, especially if you’re hunting public land or areas with other hunters. Always be certain of your target—positively identify that tom before you take the shot, and be mindful of what’s beyond your bird. A moment of caution can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and enjoyable hunt for everyone.
We’ve packed this issue with great reads to get you ready for spring! If you’re a dog owner, Back to Basics by Kyle Dana will help sharpen your gun dog’s skills. Anglers will want to check out Walleye Tackle & Tricks by Ben Leal for top-notch spring walleye fishing advice.
For those who love small game, Small Game Cartridges by Kyle Dana dives into small game rounds, with almost a nostalgic feel as we remember grabbing our .22s and .17s pursuing rabbits and squirrels. Deer hunters, don’t miss Whitetails 365: Growing Giant Whitetails by Aaron McKinney, covering minerals and supplements to boost antler growth. Now is the time to provide the deer with minerals and supplemental feeding to get them in the best condition possible to support trophy deer.
Looking for adventure? We explore some hidden gems across the state. Turkey hunters will appreciate Turkey Hunting: Getting Youth Involved by Dave Hoffman, offering tips to keep young hunters engaged in the field. Finally, for conservationists and upland bird hunters, Thriving Bird Habitats in Iowa by Lane Rumelhart explores native grasses and prime pheasant habitat.
From strategies to Iowa adventure recommendations, we’ve packed this issue with content to help you make the most of your time outdoors. We wish you a fun-filled and successful turkey season—may your calls be convincing, your shots be true, and your season be one to remember.
Good luck and stay safe out there!
Next Months issue of the Iowa Sportsman is here
Also check out Last months issue of the Iowa Sportsman – March 2025
Looking for more of dairy of cattle side –
READ ISSUE NOW!
Iowa Sportsman March 2025
In This Issue of the Iowa Sportsman March 2025
- Finding Spring Toms
- Fishing Iowa – What to Target in March
- Whitetails 365 – Prepping for Food Plots
- Leveraging Prairie to Improve Habitat
- Bringing a Pond Back to its Prime
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
Also here is Last month’s Issue
If your looking for our cattle or dairy side here you go
READ ISSUE NOW!

Iowa Sportsman February 2025
In This Issue of The Iowa Sportsman February 2025
- Owning the Night – Night Vision Tips
- Fishing Iowa – Upgrading Rods & Reels
- Whitetails 365 – Planning Your Deer Food Plot
- Shooting Corner – Target Shooting Must Haves!
- County Spotlight – Iowa’s Winter Wonderland Adventures
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
Or if you are looking for last month’s issue, check it out here –
If you are looking for the Cattle/Dairy Side Here you are
READ ISSUE NOW!
Iowa Sportsman January 2025
In This Issue of the Iowa Sportsman January 2o25
- The Growing Threat of Chronic Wasting Disease – What Hunters Need to Know
- Tips for January Coyote Calling
- Plan for Dear Season 2025
- Timer Stand Improvement
- Prescribed Burning
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.
Here is next month’s issue of the Iowa Sportsman: February 2025
Or if you are looking for last month’s check it out
Looking for the Cattle/Dairy side of things?
READ ISSUE NOW!
Iowa Sportsman December 2024
In This Issue of the Iowa Sportsman December 2024
- Snow Pheasant Pursuits
- Stalking the Predator: Red Fox & Coyote
- Waterfowl Strategies: Hunting Pressured Ducks
- Three Tips for a Successful Muzzleloader season
- Ice Fishing Minnesota 10 Reasons to Go
Here is next month’s issue of the Iowa Sportsman – January 2025
Here is last month’s issue of the Iowa Sportsman: November 2024
If you are looking for the Cattle/Dairy side of things
READ ISSUE NOW!
Iowa Sportsman September 2024
In This Issue of the Iowa Sportsman September 2024
- Using Past Trail Cam Data to target this year’s buck
- Trout Fishing in Northeast Iowa
- What to do when Food Plots Fail
- Memories of a Dad
- Getting on Early Season Bucks
- The Art of hunting small parcels of land
- Whitetails 365: Conquering opening day
- Coyote Hunting with Night Rigs
Here is last months issue of the Iowa Sportsman: August 2024
Also here is next months issue October 2024
Or if you are looking for our Cattle/Dairy side of things
READ ISSUE NOW!