Iowa teal-only hunting season opens September 5

Iowa’s special September teal-only hunting season is scheduled to open for nine days starting September 5. The season offers an opportunity for new hunters to experience duck hunting, as teal are known to respond well to decoys and the September weather is typically favorable.

Wetland conditions across the state are currently varied. Southern Iowa has seen significant rainfall, resulting in water levels in areas that previously remained dry, while northwest and north-central wetlands are beginning to dry out. State waterfowl biologist Orrin Jones of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recommends that hunters scout locations in advance to monitor water levels and bird activity. The DNR expects to release its first wetland condition and seasonal migration reports in late August.