Pheasant season kicks off in Iowa today, with hunters optimistic following an encouraging August roadside survey. 

The survey found Iowa’s statewide pheasant population to be nearly 23 birds per route, a 15 percent increase over 2022. Based on these numbers, the anticipated harvest is between 300,000 to 400,000 roosters. This is similar to the past two years, when the harvest was the highest in more than a decade. 

As more than 50,000 hunters are expected to be out this weekend, they are reminded that the daily bag limit is three roosters, with a possession limit of 12. Hunters must also wear a minimum of one article of external clothing with at least 50 percent of its surface area solid blaze orange. Pheasant season continues through January 10, 2024. For more information, including regulations, education or safety courses, and an interactive hunting atlas, click here.