Iowa Tag- outfit or lease?

[jjohnsonElknewbie]

Do you happen to know of a good outfitter in Iowa? Don’t mind waiting for a spot or even paying more to go with a reputable one.

Or does anyone know of a reputable outfitter?

Iowa Drop Tine Outfitters out of Guthrie Center if they're still operating.

 

[TreeDux]

Do general sentiments on outfitter v lease v public swing very much when we stop talking archery and focus entirely on later season gun hunts? Feed near bedding would be my focus at that time and I know how land is farmed around here. Lucking into some standing field crops adjacent to public land in the late season feels like a lot to ask. Full disclosure, drive across the state every few years, never hunted there.

 

[PA 5-0]

I've been chasin in Iowa for 20 yrs. Out there every year, multiple times a year, with or without a tag. 3 of the biggest bucks I have ever seen, 190+ category, were on public. Don't write it off. All the "pro hunters'" bucks can simply run across the dirt road and walk under your stand. From what I've seen, the big public pieces usually get hit more in gun seasons. Walk more than 200yds into it in bow season and you'll find solitude. Most of the public pieces are farmed and standing crop fields in Nov are always a magnet. On leases, because of the long draw periods for nonres, good pieces can be found and produce great hunts. Hit the Iowa hunting pages on FB and put up a post. Guys will respond. Most farmers don't care about deer and are glad to take some of your money for a week long hunt. My biggest Booner was killed on a $300 trespass fee. Best of luck. PS. I drew a bow tag this year. I'll keep you'all posted.