Shotgun season kicks off on Saturday for deer hunters in the state of Iowa. 

The season will start from Saturday, December 2nd until Wednesday, December 6th, which will then be followed by shotgun second season from December 9th-17th. Marion County is one of the most populous deer hunting counties in Iowa, and according to the Iowa DNR, as of 2022, Marion County had the 15th most deer harvested out of the 99 counties, totaling 1,950. To hunt deer you need to have completed an approved hunter safety course, have a valid hunting license and habitat fee, and be able to physically operate a firearm or bow in a safe manner. Local DNR Officer Eric Hoffman says   Marion County is fortunate to have access to the types of hunting and fishing that we do.

“We’re extremely fortunate in our backyard to have some of the best resources in the state of Iowa as far as fishing and hunting. If you live around Knoxville, Pella, Pleasantville, or just in Marion County, you have some amazing resources right out your back door.”

Deer hunting hours are half an hour before sun up and half an hour after sun down. With so many hunters active this time of year, it is crucial to always be dressed in some blaze orange clothing so others can spot you. For a complete list of Iowa deer hunting regulations you can follow this link.