Hunting on your land

Although your property may be crawling with deer, elk, or pheasant, wild animals are considered to be a public resource. This means that you do not have automatic hunting rights on your land. You might be granted a reduced-fee license to go hunt on your own property, but you are still expected to obey all other applicable hunting regulations. This includes not shooting animals out of season and taking all appropriate non-lethal steps to control property damage caused wild animals. If you decide to allow others to hunt on your property, remember that planning and communication are the keys to a safe hunting experience.

Radio Interview Source: Brandon Bergquist, law enforcement officer, Iowa DNR

For additional information about hunting on your land, we suggest the following resources:

• What's at Stake if You Open Your Land to Private Recreation?: Factors to consider before allowing others to hunt on your land.

• Earning Additional Income through Hunt Leases on Private Land: Discover how to turn hunting into a profitable endeavor.

• Fish and Wildlife Management Offices: Learn more about your state's hunting and fishing laws.