Iowa resident early muzzleloader deer season started last Saturday and will last until Sunday, October 22nd.

This season runs concurrently with the early bow season which started on October 1st, and will last until December 1st. 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. 

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. 

2023/2024 Iowa Muzzleloader Rules

Iowa Muzzleloader rules are as follows (2023/2024)

Only muzzleloading rifles, muzzleloading muskets, muzzleloading pistols, and muzzleloading revolvers between .44 and .775 of an inch shooting a single projectile. Muzzleloaders equipped with electronic ignition are not allowed. In-line and disk-type muzzleloaders are allowed. Rifle-scopes may also be used.

Source: Page 38