Iowans can buy 2024 resident hunting, fishing and other licenses on Dec. 15. Licenses purchased for 2023 expire on Jan. 10.
The menu of license options includes the popular Outdoor Combo annual resident hunting/fishing/habitat combo license for $55; the Angler’s Special three-year fishing license for $62; and the Hunter’s Special three-year hunting license with habitat included for $101.
Also available is the Bonus Line option for $14 letting resident and nonresident anglers to fish with one more line in addition to the two lines allowed with the regular fishing license.
pgrade your paper license to a durable hard card with custom art from Iowa artists for only $6.
Download the GoOutdoorsIowa mobile app for iPhone and Android devices to buy and access your license information, no matter where you are. Sync your hunting and fishing licenses on the app to show in the field. You may download multiple customer licenses to offer one secure digital license document location for families, groups, and more.
Licenses are available at 650 locations across the state, and on the DNR website at www.iowadnr.gov/GoOutdoorsIowa.
Iowa hunters donate
4,500 deer hides
Hunters donated more than 4,500 deer hides to Elks Lodges across Iowa last year, which was an increase of nearly 600 hides from the 2022 season. The deer hides are used by the Veterans Leather Program to make professionally-crafted leather gloves for veterans in wheelchairs and also turned into leather used for therapy programs for recovering veterans.
The Veterans Leather Program relies on the charity of hunters to donate their deer hides. Hunters willing to donate their hides are encouraged to contact the local Elks Lodge for drop off locations or visit www.elks.org/lodges to find the nearest lodge. The therapeutic kits and gloves are distributed at no cost to the veterans. Contact Lisa Widick at 208-360-6294 or ozzywidick@gmail.com for more information.
DNR advises best winter paddling tips
Winter paddling can provide solitude, exercise and an opportunity to see amazing winter beauty. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recommends that paddlers be prepared to paddle in cold weather.
“Many paddlers, especially those just starting out, don’t realize how cold the water really is. The water is still dangerously cold, and cold-water shock and hypothermia can set in quickly,” said Todd Robertson, Iowa DNR River Programs Water Trails coordinator.
“Dress for the water temperature, not the air and expect to go into the water,” Robertson said. “A wet or dry suit and a life jacket are crucial to remain safe.”
Review these simple safety tips before you head out on the water this winter.
Don’t paddle alone. Especially in winter, use a buddy system.
Always wear a life jacket.
Choose a shorter paddling trip so you can adjust for any issues, like low water and falling temperatures.
Check water levels to make sure you won’t need to get in and out of your boat and drag it.
Make sure the entire water trail route and water body you are paddling is open on both rivers and lakes. Ice jams can form and water freeze as temperatures drop throughout the day.
Stay away from wood/branch piles and debris, usually found on the outside of river bends, that can pull you underwater and hold you there with little chance of escape.
Paddle with a group who is experienced in cold water paddling.
Wear a dry suit or wet suit, along with layers, to help avoid hypothermia or cold-water shock. Do not wear cotton. Dress for the water temperature, not the air.
Bring along a dry bag with a set of extra clothes you can change into if you get wet, a first-aid kit and a protected cell phone or weather radio.
Let a friend or loved one know where you are going and when you are expected to return. It will be easier to find you if you need help.