Outdoor and Sporting Activities in Iowa

Iowa is a hidden gem for sportsmen seeking outdoor adventures. Hunt trophy-worthy whitetail deer in the state’s fertile woodlands or enjoy waterfowl hunting along the Mississippi Flyway. Anglers can reel in bass, walleye, and catfish from Iowa’s rivers and lakes, while hikers and campers explore scenic trails in Loess Hills and Backbone State Park. Whether you’re hunting, fishing, or hiking, Iowa’s natural beauty and abundant wildlife make it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Book your next Iowa outdoor experience right here! This category features guided trips, lodging, and outfitter services across the Hawkeye State, specializing in its world-class hunting and fishing, alongside unique outdoor recreation.

Adventure Travel

Discover guided kayaking/canoeing excursions on scenic rivers, explore trails in state parks like Pikes Peak or the Loess Hills, or plan other recreational outings with local experts.

Guided Fishing Trips

Hire a guide to target Walleye, Crappie, Catfish, Bass, and Panfish on Iowa's natural lakes, reservoirs, or major rivers. Includes specialized trips for Northeast Iowa trout streams.

Guided Wingshooting

Experience Iowa's legendary Pheasant hunts, pursue Bobwhite Quail, target waterfowl along the Mississippi Flyway with experienced guides and dogs, often on prime private land.

Guided Big Game Hunting

Book a hunt for Iowa's trophy Whitetail Deer during archery, shotgun, or muzzleloader seasons, or plan a guided Spring or Fall Turkey hunt with expert local outfitters. Iowa is known in the hunting community for big whitetail deer.  It ranks #2 according to both the Pope and Young and Boone and Crockett records, even though it gives out the least amount of tags of any other state excluding Kansas. Many hunters consider Iowa to be the best state in the Midwest for trophy whitetails.

What You'll Need to Go Hunting in Iowa

  • Hunter safety certificate may be required if born on or after January 1, 1967.
  • Iowa hunters are chosen by a draw system, and they do have preference points.
  • No rifle hunting is allowed in Iowa. This state only allows shotgun, muzzleloader, handgun and archery seasons.
  • The archery hunt is possibly the best in the world, but it has gotten very difficult to draw a tag (but it’s worth the wait).
  • Because it’s become so difficult to draw an archery tag, the gun hunts have been exceptional because some farms go nearly un-hunted until the firearms seasons.

Outdoors International can help you find licensed outfitters, experienced guides, and unique Iowa lodges offering unforgettable hunting, fishing, and adventure experiences.

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Stan Masneri

What an amazing experience!

The lodge was out of this world! Our rooms, the delicious food, the incredible wildlife and the scenery were amazing. Our photo safari guide was truly exceptional and had us on animals almost constantly. We saw over 30 different species and had some incredible up close experiences. Africa is amazing!

Scott Navares

NRA
Grand Slam Ovis Member
SCI First for Hunters
Pope and Young