Thousands of Iowa hunters are expected to hit the fields, timber, and tree stands this weekend with the inception of the gun deer season. Season one runs from Saturday, December 2 to Wednesday, December 6.

In 2022, hunters in Iowa reported harvesting 109,600 deer, with a similar harvest anticipated this season. Washington County reported more than 1,800 deer last year, and 407 have already reported in 2023 through the youth, disabled hunter, and archery seasons.

The gun season has expanded over the years from shotgun-only, to also include muzzleloaders, handguns, and rifles. In addition to the usual safety precautions, hunters are also reminded that the use of cell-phones, radios, and social media to assist with the hunt is prohibited. New this year, anyone who harvests a buck must report whether the main beam antler length is above or below 14 inches.

Successful hunters can report their harvest by texting the registration number to 1-800-771-4692, using the Go Outdoors Iowa App, calling the number listed on the tag, or through a license vendor. For more information on the first gun deer season, visit the Iowa Department of Natural Resources website.