Jacob Hart - ALC

Iowa stands tall among hunting states nationwide. The state leads America in trophy whitetail records, ranks in the top five for turkey harvests, and sits along the Mississippi Flyway for outstanding waterfowl action. With 7.7 million acres open to hunting, Iowa offers incredible opportunities for serious hunters. Finding private hunting land makes a huge difference in Iowa, where 70% of huntable ground remains privately owned. High Point Land Company specializes in matching hunters with properties that fit their specific game interests, whether deer timber, pheasant fields, or duck marshes. Species Overview Iowa offers diverse hunting for many species throughout the year. While exact dates shift annually, the general timeline stays consistent for planning purposes. Always check the official Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website before heading out, as regulations can change.   Species Season Timeline Prime Zones Preferred Habitat Key Info Deer Youth: Sep 20–Oct 5 Archery: Oct 1–Dec 5, Dec 22–Jan 10 Shotgun: Dec 6–10, Dec 13–21 Muzzleloader: Dec 22–Jan 10 Northeast (Allamakee County) Timber, field edges, food plots, marshes, standing corn Bag: 1 antlered, antlerless varies; archery, shotgun, muzzleloader seasons Turkey Gun/Bow: Oct 13–Dec 5 Archery: Oct 1–Dec 5, Dec. 22–Jan 10 Youth: April 10–12 Southern Iowa (Decatur County) Oak forests, field edges, forested ridges Spring: 2 bearded birds Fall: 1 bird, zones vary Residents only for fall Ducks/Geese Teal: Sep 6–14 Ducks: Sep 27 –Oct 3 Geese: Sep 20–Oct 5 North Zone, Missouri River Wetlands, river bottoms, grain fields, flooded woods Ducks: 6 daily, species limits Geese: 5 daily; federal duck Stamp required Pheasant/Quail Pheasant: Oct 25–Jan 10 Quail: Oct 25–Jan 31 Northwest (Plymouth County) CRP fields, fencerows, grasslands, shrubby habitats Pheasant: 3 roosters daily Quail: 8 daily Roosters only for pheasant Squirrel/Rabbit Squirrel: Aug 30–Jan 31 Rabbit: CLOSED Statewide Timber, brushy creek bottoms Squirrel: 6 daily Rabbit: 2 daily No permit for residents under 16 Coyote Year-round Statewide Open farm country, timber edges No bag limit Night hunting allowed Exotic Year-round Private ranches Varies by species No DNR rules Private ranch regulations Deer Hunting in Iowa Iowa deer hunting enjoys worldwide fame for good reason. The state consistently produces trophy bucks with genetics, habitat, and management practices that grow massive antlers. Most hunters focus on the rut period in November when mature bucks move during daylight hours. Look for properties with a mix of timber blocks, crop fields, and hidden bedding areas. Getting Iowa deer tags takes planning for non-residents, as the state uses a preference point system that might require several years to draw prime zones. Turkey Hunting in Iowa Iowa turkey hunting delivers a uniquely challenging and deeply rewarding pursuit. In spring, echoing gobbles roll across oak-covered ridges and creek bottoms as toms respond to well-timed calls. The fall season demands a different strategy, requiring hunters to track flock patterns between roosts and feeding grounds. Southern Iowa boasts the state’s densest turkey populations, especially along the Missouri border, where mature hardwoods create ideal habitat. Turkeys in eastern Iowa respond best to subtle calling techniques rather than aggressive approaches. Hunting Waterfowl Iowa waterfowl hunting benefits from the state's position along the Mississippi Flyway. Migrating ducks and geese follow river systems through Iowa, creating excellent hunting in marshes, backwaters, and flooded timber areas. The state divides into hunting zones with different season dates to match migration patterns. Early seasons target teal and local birds, while later hunts focus on mallards and Canada geese. Freezing conditions push birds toward remaining open water, concentrating them for late-season opportunities. Finding Upland Birds Iowa pheasant hunting carries on a proud tradition dating back generations. The northwestern counties consistently produce the highest bird numbers thanks to a mix of agricultural fields, CRP grasslands, and appropriate winter cover. A good hunting dog makes all the difference when pursuing these colorful birds through thick cover. Quail populations concentrate in southern counties where brushy fencerows and early successional habitats remain. Both bird species benefit from mild winters and dry nesting seasons, so populations fluctuate year to year. Chasing Small Game Small game hunting offers extended seasons and liberal bag limits throughout Iowa. Squirrels thrive in oak and hickory forests statewide, providing fast action for beginners and experts alike. Cottontail rabbits prefer brushy cover and field edges where they can find both food and escape cover. These modest pursuits require minimal gear but deliver maximum enjoyment, especially on pleasant fall days. Many hunters start younger family members on squirrels or rabbits before advancing to larger game. Trying Exotic Hunts Iowa offers unique opportunities for exotic species on private ranches throughout the state. These operations typically maintain populations of elk, fallow deer, or even more unusual species like aoudad sheep. Unlike native game with strict seasonal limits, these hunts often run year-round with guaranteed opportunity. Some ranches operate as guided outfitters, while others sell land to hunters wanting their own exotic game ranch. These properties require specific fencing and management practices to maintain healthy herds. High Point Land Company occasionally lists established exotic game ranches ready for new owners. Licenses and Rules Iowa hunting requires proper licensing and adherence to state regulations. Residents enjoy simpler access to tags at lower prices, while non-residents face draws or lotteries for limited permits. All licenses can be purchased through the GoOutdoorsIowa.com portal or from local vendors throughout the state. Species License Type Bag Limits Blaze Orange Requirement Deer Resident: $33.00 (Any-Sex Tag) Non-resident: $348.50 (Buck Tag) 1 antlered, antlerless varies by county Yes, 1 solid blaze orange garment (vest, jacket, etc.) Turkey Resident: $28.50 Non-resident: $119.00 Spring: 1 bearded bird per license; Fall: 1 bird No for spring, Yes for fall (1 solid blaze orange garment) Migratory Birds Resident: $11.50 + Federal Duck Stamp Non-resident: $11.50 + Federal Duck Stamp Varies by species No Small Game Resident: $22.00 (Basic Hunting) Non-resident: $144.00 (Hunting/Habitat) Pheasant: 3 daily; Quail: 8 daily; Squirrel: 6 daily; Rabbit: 10 daily No, recommended for safety Coyote Resident: $22.00 (Basic Hunting) Non-resident: $144.00 (Hunting/Habitat) No limit No   Owning Your Hunting Land Buying hunting land in Iowa provides freedom from public land crowds and permission hassles. Private ownership lets you manage habitat specifically for your target species, whether that means food plots for deer, wetland restoration for ducks, or edge habitat for pheasants. Many properties offer additional income through farming leases, timber sales, or CRP payments to offset ownership costs. High Point Land Company specializes in Iowa hunting land for sale that matches your specific goals, budget, and preferred game species. Unlike leasing, land ownership builds equity while creating a legacy for future generations of hunters in your family. FAQs When is Iowa hunting season? Most seasons run September through January with specific dates varying by species. Deer seasons span September to January, pheasant runs late October through January, while turkey happens in spring and fall. How do I get Iowa hunting licenses? Purchase licenses online at GoOutdoorsIowa.com or through local vendors. Resident licenses cost $25-$131 while non-resident licenses run $152-$644 depending on species. Where is Iowa's best hunting? Northeast Iowa produces trophy deer, northwest counties lead in pheasant numbers, and southern counties offer excellent turkey hunting. High Point Land Company can help find property in your preferred region. Can I hunt private Iowa land? You must obtain written permission from landowners before hunting private property. Alternatively, buying your own hunting land through High Point ensures lifetime access without permission concerns.

Missouri attracts hunters from across the country, thanks to its expansive variety of game, generous season lengths, and a wealth of hunting opportunities on both public and private lands. From the rugged hills of the Ozarks to the rolling prairies of the north, the state offers ample hunting for deer, turkey, elk, bear, birds, small game, and more. Buying your own Missouri hunting land for sale means no more asking permission, better hunting success, and a solid investment. High Point Land Company specializes in helping hunters secure land tailored to their hunting passions and long-term goals. Deer Hunting in Missouri Missouri offers one of the most hunter-friendly deer seasons in the country. Bowhunters enjoy a nearly four-month window, while firearms hunters get multiple opportunities throughout the fall and winter. Deer populations are closely managed to balance quality and quantity—creating consistent, productive seasons year after year. November gun season: 11 days (November 15–25) Bow season: 4 months (September 15–November 14, November 26–January 15) CWD hunts: November 26–30 in CWD zones (special regulations apply) Youth weekends: November 1–2, November 28–30 Muzzleloader season: December 27–January 6 Extra doe tags: Varies by county Turkey Seasons in Missouri Missouri is home to some of the largest Eastern wild turkeys in the U.S., and spring hunting here is nothing short of legendary. The gobblers are vocal, the action is fast, and the scenery is stunning. Fall brings a different challenge—pursuing silent flocks through oak stands and farm country. Spring season: 21 days (April 21–May 11) Youth weekend: April 12–13 Fall gun season: October 1–31 in open counties Fall bow season: September 15–November 14, November 26–January 15 Spring limit: Two birds, one per day Spring hours: All day private land, stops 1:00 PM public land Fall limit: Two birds, any sex Elk Hunting in Missouri Elk are back in Missouri, thanks to a successful reintroduction in the Ozark region, particularly around Peck Ranch.This hunt is among the most exclusive in the Midwest. Thousands apply, but fewer than 10 hunters get tags each year through a random drawing. Tags: Five per year Bow Season: October 18–26 Gun Season: December 13–21 Location: Carter, Reynolds, and Shannon counties, excluding the Peck Ranch Conservation Area refuge. Applicants: Missouri residents only Apply: May 1–31 Limit: One bull elk Bear Season and Regulations Black bear hunting is still in its early stages in Missouri and is managed carefully to ensure sustainable populations. The hunt takes place in October, during the peak of the bears’ pre-hibernation feeding period. Hunts are limited to specific zones in southern Missouri and are strictly monitored with a season quota. Season: October 20–30 or until quota filled Areas: Bear Management Zones 1, 2, 3 Permits: Varies per zone, based on bear population Reporting: Within 24 hours Restrictions: No baiting, dogs, or electronic calls Quota: Varies per zone, based on bear population Upland Game & Small Game Seasons Chasing rabbits, squirrels, quail, and pheasants is a Missouri tradition. These hunts are great for newcomers and seasoned hunters alike, offering long seasons and high daily limits. Northern Missouri boasts the best pheasant habitat, while quail thrive statewide in quality grasslands and crop fields. Quail, pheasant: November 1–January 15 Rabbit: October 1–February 15 Squirrel: May 24–February 15 Daily limits: 8 quail, 4 roosters, 6 rabbits, 10 squirrels Hours: Sunrise to sunset, longer on private land Public areas: Some stock extra pheasants Waterfowl and Migratory Birds Missouri sits in the Mississippi Flyway where millions of ducks and geese migrate. The state is split into North, Middle, and South zones, and season dates vary as birds move south. Early seasons start with teal and doves in September, then regular duck season runs between November and January. Zones: North: November 8–December 28; Middle: November 15–January 4: South: November 27–January 25 Duck season: 60 days (November 8–January 18, by zone) Duck limit: 6 per day, specific limits by type Goose season: November 11–February 6 Teal season: September 13–28 Dove season: September 1–November 29 Permits: State permit, federal duck stamp Furbearers and Predator Hunting Predator hunting in Missouri provides year-round action, protecting game bird populations and keeping predator numbers in balance. Coyote hunting stays open all year with no limits. Other furbearers like bobcats, foxes, and raccoons have regulated seasons and offer excellent sport during the winter lull. Bobcat, otter: Need special tags Coyote: Open all year, day or night, no limit Night hunting: Lights, thermal scopes legal Raccoon, opossum: October 15–February 28 Trapping: November 15–January 31 Electronic calls: Great for predators Benefit: Hunt when other seasons close Hunting Licenses and Regulations Before heading afield, hunters must ensure they’re licensed and compliant with all state regulations. Missouri keeps resident fees affordable while offering clear guidance through the Department of Conservation. Most permits can be purchased online or at retail vendors. You need the right permits to hunt in Missouri. Residents pay much less than out-of-state hunters. If you were born after January 1967, you need to take a hunter safety course first. The Missouri Department of Conservation handles all hunting rules and sells permits online or through vendors. Hunter Education: Required for anyone born after Jan 1, 1967 Deer permit: $17 residents, $295 non-residents Small game permit: $11 residents Turkey permit: $17 residents Light goose: Special permit for conservation season Reporting: Deer, turkey via Telecheck Blaze Orange: Hat, vest during gun deer season Local rules: May vary—check your hunting area Where to Hunt in Missouri Missouri boasts over 1,000 public conservation areas, plus 1.5 million acres in the Mark Twain National Forest, giving hunters access to a wide range of terrain. However, public lands can become crowded during peak times. The Ozarks are rich with deer and turkey, while the river bottoms of the Missouri and Mississippi draw migrating ducks each fall. Serious hunters often turn to land ownership for better game control, less pressure, and improved outcomes. High Point Land Company offers Missouri land for sale that fits various budgets and goals. Many hunters start with smaller tracts near public land, then upgrade as their passion grows. The best hunting properties combine timber, water, and food sources that keep game on your land year-round.

The Top 5 Things to Consider When Buying Farmland By Jacob Hart, High Point Land Company When it comes to investing in farmland, there are several critical factors to consider. Whether you're looking to diversify your investment portfolio, reconnect with your agricultural roots, or take advantage of a 1031 exchange, buying farmland requires careful planning and due diligence. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the top five things to consider when buying farmland, ensuring you make an informed and strategic decision. Before we dive in, here’s an important disclaimer: I’m not a financial advisor, accountant, CPA, or attorney—I’m a real estate broker in several states. My advice is based on our experience in the real estate market, and it’s essential to consult with your financial and legal professionals before making any decisions. 1. Define Your Goal The first and most important step in buying farmland is to define your goal. Are you looking to diversify your investment portfolio? Do you want to transition from other types of real estate investments into farmland? Or perhaps you grew up on a farm and want to get back to those roots. Defining your goal will help shape your search and inform your decisions. For instance, if you’re interested in a 1031 exchange, you’ll want to understand the timeline and financial requirements. If you’re looking to own farmland yourself, as opposed to fractional ownership through a fund, that decision will guide your approach and focus. Having a clear goal allows you to narrow down your search area, determine your budget, and set realistic expectations for your investment. 2. Due Diligence Once you’ve defined your goal, the next crucial step is due diligence. Hiring a professional—such as an experienced land real estate agent or farm manager—is invaluable. A professional who specializes in farmland will have the knowledge and experience necessary to guide you through the complexities of the transaction. They can provide detailed maps showing tile systems, wetlands, soil quality, and future development plans. Additionally, understanding the local market is vital. Who are the tenants in the area? What are the typical rental rates, and what crops are being grown? Are these crops sustainable and profitable? Due diligence is more than just running numbers; it’s about understanding the long-term viability of the land you’re purchasing. 3. Evaluate the Crops When considering a farmland purchase, it’s essential to evaluate the types of crops being grown and their market stability. Crops like corn, soybeans, and wheat have been staples in agricultural markets for decades, with strong import and export ties globally. These crops are typically more reliable and provide a steady income stream. However, be cautious about investing in farmland solely because it offers a high return on investment (ROI) from a new or niche crop. While these crops might promise high returns initially, they may not have the same long-term market stability. It’s essential to consider the sustainability of the crop market and whether it aligns with your long-term investment goals. 4. Assess the Tenants The quality and stability of tenants can significantly impact your farmland investment. Large, efficient operators often bring stability, but you need to consider their financial health and operational sustainability. What happens if a key tenant faces financial difficulties or goes out of business? Understanding the risks associated with your tenants will help you make informed decisions about the long-term viability of your investment. Farmland is often seen as a stable asset in an investment portfolio. However, if you rely on high rental rates from tenants, it’s crucial to assess whether those rates are sustainable. Look at the long-term financial health of your tenants and their ability to continue farming profitably. 5. Look for Growth Opportunities Finally, consider the potential for growth and improvement on the farmland. Are there opportunities to expand the farm, add irrigation, or implement tile drainage systems? These improvements can not only increase the farm’s productivity and yield but also provide tax benefits. Additionally, consider whether the land is suitable for introducing new crops or tenants, which could enhance your ROI. Growth opportunities are key to maximizing the value of your farmland investment. Farms that need a little work or have room for expansion can offer significant returns over time, making them attractive options for savvy investors. Final Thoughts Investing in farmland can be a rewarding and stable addition to your portfolio, but it requires careful planning and due diligence. By defining your goals, conducting thorough research, and understanding the market dynamics, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your financial objectives. So remember these five things to consider when buying farmland. If you found this content valuable, don’t forget to follow, like, and share our YouTube video on this topic. Dive deeper into the details and stay connected for more insights. Watch now: