Javelina hunting is a unique and exciting experience, but it’s important to be prepared before heading out. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what you need to know before javelina hunting in Iowa. We’ll cover topics such as the best time to hunt, what equipment you’ll need, and where to find javelinas. We’ll also touch on the regulations that govern javelina hunting in Iowa. So read on for everything you need to know about javelina hunting in Iowa!
Javelina Hunting Laws in Iowa
Iowa is one of the few states where javelina hunting is allowed. The laws governing javelina hunting in Iowa are as follows:
- Javelina may only be hunted during the open season, which runs from October 1st to March 31st.
- A hunting license is required to hunt javelina in Iowa. The cost of a license depends on the hunter’s age and residency status. Non-residents must also purchase a non-resident wildlife permit, which costs $131.50.
- There is a limit of two javelinas per hunter per season.
- Javelinas may only be taken with firearms or archery equipment. It is illegal to use dogs, traps, or poison to hunt javelina.
- All javelinas must be checked in with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources within 24 hours of being harvested. The animal must be presented whole, and the head and proof of sex must be attached to the carcass.
Related: Alligator Hunting in Iowa
Do you need a license to hunt Javelina in Iowa?
In Iowa, you need a license to hunt javelina if you want to take the animal for food or sport. If you are planning to hunt javelina for their fur, you do not need a license as long as you follow the guidelines set by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
Javelina Hunting Seasons in Iowa
The Iowa javelina hunting season typically runs from mid-October through early February. However, the exact dates can vary from year to year, so it’s important to check the Iowa Department of Natural Resources website for updated information. Javelinas can only be hunted with a valid Iowa hunting license and a permit from the DNR.
During the javelina hunting season, hunters are allowed to take two animals per day. The bag limit for the entire season is four animals. All javelinas must be checked in with the DNR within 24 hours of being killed. The carcasses must be presented whole at an approved check station.
Javelinas are most active at dawn and dusk, so these are the best times to hunt them. They tend to travel in small herds, so if you see one javelina, there are likely others nearby. When stalking javelinas, be sure to approach downwind so they don’t catch your scent and spook away.
Once you’ve made your kill, you’ll need to properly dress and transport the carcass. Javelinas must be field dressed as soon as possible after being killed. The entrails and internal organs should be removed from the body cavity and discarded in an appropriate location. The carcass can then be quartered or deboned for easy transport back to your vehicle or campsite.
Can you hunt Javelina at night in Iowa?
Hunting javelina at night is not allowed in Iowa. Javelinas are nocturnal animals, so they are most active at night. If you want to hunt javelina, you’ll need to do it during the day.
Bag limits for hunting Javelina in Iowa
The bag limit for javelina in Iowa is two per day. Hunters are required to have a valid hunting license and a javelina permit to hunt these animals. Javelina may only be taken during the open season, which runs from December 1st through the last day of February. Javelina may not be hunted with dogs, and all hunters must use shotguns or rifles when hunting these animals.
Legal ways to hunt Javelina in Iowa
There are many ways to legally hunt Javelina in Iowa. The most common method is to use a shotgun or a rifle. Another popular method is to use a crossbow.
If you are using a shotgun, you will need to make sure that you are using shells that are no larger than the number six shot. You will also need to make sure that your shotgun is properly licensed. If you are using a rifle, you will need to make sure that it is properly licensed as well.
If you are using a crossbow, you will need to make sure that it is properly licensed and that you have the proper permit from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
Can you use dogs to hunt Javelina in Iowa?
Yes, dogs can be used to hunt Javelina in Iowa. There are a few things to keep in mind when using dogs to hunt Javelina, however. First, Javelina is very adept at running and climbing, so a dog that is not in good shape may have difficulty keeping up. Second, Javelina has sharp tusks that they use for defense, so a dog that is not properly trained and socialized around these animals may be injured. Finally, because Javelina is wild animals, they can be unpredictable and dangerous, so it is important to use caution when hunting them with dogs.
Can you hunt Javelina from a vehicle in Iowa?
In Iowa, you can only hunt javelina from a vehicle if you are disabled. If you are not disabled, you must be out of the vehicle and within 150 feet of it to shoot a javelina.
Final Thoughts
After a successful javelina hunt in Iowa, hunters should take some time to process their game. This includes field dressing the animal as soon as possible after killing it and then transporting it to a place where it can be properly refrigerated or frozen.
Once the animal is processed, hunters can enjoy their hard-earned feast! When cooking javelina, it is important to remember that the meat is lean and tough. As such, it should be cooked slowly over low heat to prevent it from drying out. There are many great recipes available online for javelina dishes, so get creative and enjoy!
