While many are out hunting for turkeys until May 18th, there is something else that can be hunted now and without a license.

Iowa Department of Natural Resources Conservation Officer Jeremy King says that morel mushrooms are in season. He mentions that a tip he’s heard from those who find them frequently is to check around dead and dying elm trees. King tells Raccoon Valley Radio that those going out to look for morels, to be aware of any turkey hunters out there as well.

“Also, if you’re our mushroom hunting, would strongly encourage you to wear maybe some clothing with some brighter colors on it, something that’s not supernatural out there in the outdoor so that people would see you if they are recreational hunting. And there’s a chance that, you know, somebody could be turkey hunting that came in from a different route or different, from a different point. And you didn’t know each other was out there. So just be cognizant of that and think about that sort of thing.”

King mentions that morel hunters should also be aware of false morels, as they look just like their namesake, but can be harmful when eaten. He explains that a good way to check if you’ve found a morel or fake morel is to cut it in half from top to bottom, as a true morel will be hollow inside, while a fake one will be solid.

King adds that useful tool that individuals can use is the “Seek” application for smart phones. He shares that while it isn’t always 100 percent accurate, he uses it frequently if he has questions on plant and wildlife, and all you need to do is take a picture.