The first open deer hunting season kicks off today in Iowa.

According to the Department of Natural Resources deer archery season is from October 1st through December 2nd. DNR Deer Research Specialist Jace Elliot said the spring spotlight survey results show a slight increase in the deer population over the last couple of years. There is about four percent more deer from the 2021 survey compared to the 2019 survey. 

DNR officials remind hunters to report their harvest by midnight the day after it is tagged or before taking it to a meat locker or taxidermist. The hunter’s name on the transportation tag is responsible for making the report.