Iowa Sportsman

Exploring Iowa's Waterways Overlooked Fishing Destinations in Iowa

Exploring Iowa’s Waterways

Exploring Iowa’s Waterways Iowa, the “land of rolling hills and friendly smiles,” also boasts a hidden gem – a network of water trails waiting to be explored. These marked and maintained routes navigate rivers, lakes, and canals, offering paddlers, canoers, and other boaters a unique perspective on the state’s natural beauty and history. Whether you’re […]

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Habitat for the Birds Comparing Pheasant Hunting Opportunities: South Dakota Public or Iowa Private

Habitat for the Birds

Habitat for the Birds How was your pheasant and quail season? Great, mediocre, disappointing? If you were disappointed, I’m guessing, it’s because you only flushed a few birds or because you should’ve dusted off your wingshooting skills a little better before the season. Practicing with some clays in the offseason is up to you, but […]

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Catching Early Crappies

Catching Early Crappies

Catching Early Crappies The ice is long gone, the grass is turning green, and the birds are singing, all of these are signs for anglers to get out and go fishing. Walleyes, bass, catfish, and pike are fish that really come alive in early spring, but as we flip the calendars to April, panfish, especially […]

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Preparing for Turkey Season Providing Hope Through the Outdoors

Prepping for Turkey Season

Prepping for Turkey Season Few things on this earth compare to hearing the gobble of a tom in the early morning as the sun begins to rise. The air tingles with anticipation, the woods hushed in the pre-dawn light. Soon, the forest will erupt with the thunderous gobbles of a strutting tom, his challenge echoing […]

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The Value of Quality Turkey Gear

The Value of Quality Turkey Gear

The Value of Quality Turkey Gear Choosing quality gear isn’t just about bragging rights; it’s about investing in your hunting experience and ensuring success. It means less frustration, more comfort, and ultimately, a better chance of ethical harvests and lasting memories. By prioritizing quality materials, construction, and performance, you equip yourself with the tools needed […]

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Owning a Pointer

Owning a Pointer: From Field to Family

Owning a Pointer: From Field to Family I did something I thought I’d never do. Seven years ago, I called a friend and asked him to tell me more about his hunting dog. I was watching him grow up on Facebook and watched him become successful in the field. He went on to say a […]

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Exploring the Iowa Walleye Challenge

Exploring the Iowa Walleye Challenge: In Pursuit of the Prize

Exploring the Iowa Walleye Challenge: In Pursuit of the Prize The previous two spring fishing seasons, anglers across the state of Iowa have participated in a citizen science project known as the Iowa Walleye Challenge. The IWC is a virtual fishing tournament through the MyCatch app. What started as an app to record a diary […]

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Essential Tools for the Home Gunshop

Essential Tools for the Home Gunshop

Essential Tools for the Home Gunshop It’s always fun to modify your gun, or add new parts. It’s even more fulfilling when you can do it yourself. Currently, there are some gunsmithing classes which offer a wealth of knowledge for those interested in getting an in-depth knowledge and training on how to work on firearms. […]

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Decoding Flushing Dogs

Decoding what Makes a Flushing Dog

Decoding what Makes a Flushing Dog Aren’t retrievers, flushers? The simple answer is, yes. They are kind of one in the same, but there are three reasons why these distinct categories of hunting dogs exist. First, some hunting dog breeds are primarily for waterfowl hunting, so they aren’t pointing or flushing anything. Second, retrieving dogs […]

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Calling all Iowa Sportsman!

Calling all Iowa Sportsman! Tired of the same old hunting and fishing stories? Want to get the inside scoop on the latest gear, techniques, and local hotspots? Then, you need to tune in to The Iowa Sportsman Podcast. You can expect up-to-date hunting and fishing reports. Get the lowdown on what’s biting and where to […]

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