Spring 2026

IOWA BOWHUNTER

Spring 2026

Highlights of Spring Banquet 2026

Highlights of Spring Banquet 2026

SKIP THE WAIT! Join or Renew Membership Today!

This maybe the BEST DESIGNED

Ladder Stand!

OLDEST CONTINUOUS BOWHUNTER IN IOWA?

By Dave Weekley My first experience with a stick and string was at a Boy Scouts Camp in the Cedar Rapids area. In 1956 I was seventeen and had gotten my first driver’s license and my first set of wheels. It was also the year I purchased my first deer tag. In 1953 the Iowa Conservation Commission established Iowa’s first archery deer season. I believe two hunters received tags, good for a short one-week season. The first few years I did more duck hunting than deer hunting. In 1961 I moved from Cedar Rapids to Cedar Falls. Cedar Falls had a decent deer population and my duck hunting

career was over. The deer herd around Cedar Falls, was around what we now call George Wyth State Park. In 1963 I harvested my first deer, a mature doe. I have bought deer tags every year since 1956, except for my time in the military. I still hunt with my recurve and I’m still in love with shooting it and bowhunting. I have hunted five Midwest states and two western states. The pictures below are the buck I took last year and receiving an Expert Bowhunter Award at the IBA Spring Banquet. The award was for harvesting two bucks and a doe in a three-year period.

knappstand.com

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FEATURES Sponsor Pages

IMPORTANT: UPDATE YOUR EMAIL CONTACT WITH IBA

If you are receiving The Iowa Bowhunter and not receiving IBA email updates from your board, please contact Dexter Yaddof at d.yaddof@gmail.com for legislative updates https://iowabowhunters.org/advocacy/ use the signup tab IOWA BOWHUNTER ELECTRONIC DELIVERY We need each one of our members help As we try to find more efficient ways to deliver value to our members we recently began sending two of the yearly quarterly Iowa Bowhunter magazines by “flip book.” This electronic delivery of the Iowa Bowhunter is experiencing some problems and our board is working to resolve these issues. As always with electronic data, when there is one character incorrect, the whole thing is incorrect. Our first goal is to have current and accurate email and mailing addresses for all our members. Without accurate and current information, neither the electronic version or the paper version will be delivered accurately. So we need EVERY MEMBER to send their current email address and also their mailing address to Ben Low. If any membership issues contact Ben Low ONLY if there are changes. Send to Ben by email at ibatreasurer@gmail.com or by US mail at 1501 N 23rd St., Clear Lake, IA 50428. Make sure all information is accurate. If your email or address ever changes, you MUST send Ben an update. Please confirm this information as soon as possible. Anyone can always find the current newsletter, as well as past editions on our website by going to the home page, then select news, then select newsletter, then find the current pdf or simply click on the flip-book link.

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Skip the Wait

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Oldest Continuous Bowhunter in Iowa

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Editor’s Corner

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Presidents Message BONKER’S World Featured 100% Club

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DNR

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State NASP Shoot Bowhunters Page For Your Information Youth Bowhunter Deer Harvest Update IBA Related Information IBA Spring Banquet Awards Application

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IOWA BOWHUNTERS ASSOCIATION

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EDITORS CORNER

NEWSLETTER July is when the next Iowa Bowhunter newsletter is due for distribution, so please get your articles, pictures, stories, and advertisements to me no later than June 15.

TO ALL AREA REPS (AND ALL MEMBERS)

Our membership needs to be more informed on what is happening in all areas of the state of Iowa, as well as surrounding states. As an area rep, it is expected of you to supply information about your particular area to the rest of the membership. This is accomplished though articles in the Bowhunter. Please submit an article for each Bowhunter issue (four total) to the Bowhunter editor. Deadlines are shown in the editors corner of each issue. We’ll look forward to your input. If you have questions about your membership please use this address Ben Low, Treasurer 1501 N 23rd St. Clear Lake, IA 50428 ibatreasurer@gmail.com Any other questions or problems please contact any board member.

Thanks for all the photos already sent in and keep up the good work. There’s always room on the Gut Pile page. Also, if you have a good picture for the front cover, feel free to send that to me and mark it to be used for the front cover. Please include a short caption of information with each picture. Pictures are not returned. Randy Taylor

SPONSORS 9965 Shrine Street Reasnor, IA 50232 641-521-1050 tayphoto1950@gmail.com

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SPONSORS

Nipigon River Bear Hunt

nipigonriverbearhunt.com bbearman@shaw.ca Moose, Bear, and Wolf Hunting ~ Fishing ~ Scenery and Wildlife ~ Photo Opportunities

Bob Bearman ~ 807-887-3801 or 807-887-2813 Box 400 ~ Nipigon, ON, Canada ~ POT 2JO

100 years of Sporting Tradition Since 1901, Boyt has provided rugged and dependable equipment, accessories, and clothing for all hunting and shooting enthusiasts. www.boytharnesscompany.com Outdoors with Outdoors Dan Show 7 - 9 AM: Saturdays on 1350 ESPN Des Moines, Iowa www.outdoorsdan.com For Podcasts or to listen online just click to https://espndesmoines.com/outdoors-with-outdoors-dan/

www.scheels.com The Midwest’s largest selection of sports, sportswear, and footwear. Set your sights on the BEST GEAR this season. ~ Jordan Creek Town Center, West Des Moines - 515-727-4065 ~ Southern Hills Mall, Sioux City - 712-252-1551 ~ Viking Plaza, Cedar Falls - 319-277-3033 ~ Coral Ridge Mall, Iowa City - 319-625-9959

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SPONSORS

BUCK HOLLOW SPORTS Archery Pro Shop ~ www.buckhollowsports.com Large selection of archery supplies, guns, ammo, optics, trail cameras, muzzleloaders, and lots more for all your hunting and sporting needs. Boyd L Mathes ~ 641-628-4586 ~ Archery Field & Sports Outdoor & Sporting Goods Company- Archery Range-Paintball Center Our professional staff has years of archery experience as well as certified training to provide the best learning experience possible. www.archeryfield.com 515-265-6500 3725 NE 56th St, Altoona, Iowa

Hours vary, so please call ahead. 776 190th Ave ~ Pella, IA 50219

Heritage 1865 Outfitters www.heritage1865.com We specialize in upland bird hunts; but also have deer, turkey, and waterfowl hunts available. Travis Ewing ~ 641-344-1120 Russel, IA ~ email-barney@heritage1865.com

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Hello to all. By the time you read this you probably be turkey hunting. Hopefully you have had a safe and successful season. Several of you are going bear hunting and hope you have a great hunt. We just finished our Spring Banquet and everyone in attendance I think had a great time. I think everyone enjoyed Billy the Mountain Man. I would like to thank our sponsors and all that donate. If not for all of you that donate this would not be successful. I would like to thank everyone who did seminars. I would like to thank Randy Taylor for being the chairman and all of our board members. They all contribute immensely while they have their own jobs and families. Lot of time it takes to make it a success. Thank you to Bob Haney for being the MC. He does a great job and keeps it moving forward. Finally thank you to each and every one of you for attending. It doesn't happen if it wasn't for all you attending and bidding on items. We are always looking for volunteers and ideas to make it bigger and better. By the time you read this the legislation session should be over. As of this time I think it is going well. Thanks to Eric Goranson our lobbyist and for our legislation team that goes to the Capitol. It can be a short notice

but they have responded quickly. A lot of communication goes on and really appreciate that they do. Also appreciate all the other organizations that go to the Capitol. Most of all everyone that has contacted their legislators have really made a difference. Strength is in numbers and you all should be applauded. You didn't sit on the sidelines and it makes a huge difference On a final note, next year will be our 60th year of the IBA. I want to thank the original thirteen that had the vision to start this great organization. Thanks to all that have served over the years. And to all members for if it wasn't for all throughout the years it would not be this great organization. We would like for all of you to reach to the ones that might not realize it is going to be 60 years and invite them. I think it would be really cool to meet the ones from the earlier years and throughout the years. It is already listed on the IBA page. All the details. Thank you to each and every one for making the IBA a great organization. Hope to see you all at the FALL FESTIVAL and bring your family and friends. Sincerely, Loren

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SPONSORS

(Our sponsors support and believe in the IBA, please support our sponsors)

DIAMOND ($10,000 and up) GSM Outdoors PLATINUM ($5,000 - $9,999)

Infinito Safaris Archery Field & Sports

Matlabas Game Hunters

GOLD ($1,000 - $4,999)

Boyt Harness Company Buck Hollow Sports Diamond Jo Casino DK Custom Taxidermy Good Shot Heritage 1865 Outfitters

Mankazana Safaris Raymond Bowhunters Riverside Casino & Golf Resort Ted Nugent Kamp for Kids Thaddeus Lake Lodge

SILVER ($500 - $999)

C&D Outfitters David Bennett HyVee Distribution Mike Robertson

Racks and Tracks Taxidermy Rockytop Ranch Scheels Tim Quinn

BRONZE (up to $499)

Bluff Creek Archery Clayton County Archers Dakota Ranch Outfitters Dan Krettek Denny Bradley Eyad Yehyawi Fin and Feather Ike Lind Jerry Dowell Jill German Creations JP Plumbing Mid Iowa Archers

Pj1Custom Woodworking Palo Outdoors Pine Lake Archers Pottawattamie Bowhunters Raw Metal Works Roger Bowen Scott Rolffs South Central Bowhunters of Iowa Stellar Sparks Candle Company Tammy’s Handbags and Apparel Taylor Photography Wapello Chiefs

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BONKER’S WORLD The day was ending just as it had begun, calm and quiet with sunlight muted by smoke hanging in the air. At times during the day they could actually smell the pungent aroma of the fires burning not too many miles away. The time between then and now had been filled with tension, turbulence and trouble. All caused by human nature, the very thing that makes humans who and what they are had caused a great competition. A competition that would secure the championship for only one of them. The reward of winning the championship was unimaginably high. The cost of losing the championship was unimaginably harsh and insufferable. The winner would be exalted and carried on the shoulders of lesser men who would shout “huzzah.” The loser would be condemned to an existence worse than that of a scullery rat. The competition had taken place in a foreign land on a remote body of water surrounded by boreal forest. Only the combatants, their squires, along with the creatures of the forest, the water and the air would bear witness to the tectonic contest. The competition between the two exceptional individuals possessed of superior intellect and skill had been simmering for the past year. It was only a year ago when the competition had been called a draw, but only when both combatants had laid bloodied and exhausted on the wharf. It was time, the competition had boiled over. The combatants and their squires launched their corvettes, but only after the squires had interceded in the most recent escalation of the conflict. The remote lake was as smooth as glass and the corvettes rode easily on their planes. The competitors arrived at their first agreed upon area of combat. Their weapons had not yet been decided upon, they wanted to judge for themselves what tools of the combat at hand would function the best at the given time. Their weapons chosen, the combat proceeded. Sir Winterkill was the first to strike a blow followed closely by Sir Bonker’s counter thrust. Thus the combat continued, both knights striking, parrying, striking and parrying with all their skill and guile. No quarter asked and none given. The contest had reached its allotted time limit at the first agreed upon area of combat. It was time to move onto the second area of combat. Once again the corvettes rode easily on their planes. The smoke diminished sun still glistened and danced on the fine ripples of the clear water.

They arrived at the second agreed upon area of combat. Once again both knights chose the weapons best suited for the area, and once again Sir Winterkill struck the first blow. He struck with a mighty blow that would have smote a lesser man than Sir Bonker. Sir Bonker gathered himself and recovered by striking a massive blow of his own. Sir Winterkill was shaken, but summoned that courage that lives deep within champions to fight on. After a time of ineffectual striking the combatants took heed of their squires and agreed to a short suspension of the battle. The corvettes quickly delivered the bellicose men to an area of respite. The squires waded through the shallows and pulled the vessels onto the shore. The tired knights stepped out onto the dry shore and could be seen in repose while the squires prepared a repast that was followed by the knights partaking in a postprandial nap. With renewed energy the battle was rejoined. From one field of combat to another, the blows rained down. At times the great knights were each staggered by the hammer like blows but their courage and endurance saw them through. Finally, as the haze covered sun was well past its zenith and the exhausted combatants could combat no more it was time to retire from these waters of valor and for the squires to negotiate an equitable truce. Discussions were held, terms agreed upon and accords were struck between the great knights. Once again peace was upon the land, the eagles soared, the moose watched from the weed filled shallows, the bears continued to forage along the shores and the loons continued with their haunting cries. So was the tale of the Battle of Black Birch Lake. What was at stake in this battle of the skill to win, the will to win, and the passion to see one’s competitor beaten into submission? It was the greater glory of the knight who caught the bigger fish. Oh, not to be scoffed at, great pride was at stake. These knights have been joined in this battle every year in recent memory. Granted, the weapons were only the tools of fishing along with taunts and words of derision. The only blows struck were by a bigger fish than the other knight caught, and the only pain caused was by a particularly mean and nasty taunt, but the energy to carry on a full day of catching fish after fish and deriding and taunting each other’s skills and prowess as anglers takes an enormous toll. As to which knight won the battle? They aren’t saying, but the Battles of Black Birch Lake will be refought several times over the coming months only to be renewed again next summer.

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I don’t believe I have shared this past spring’s turkey season. It’s funny how it works, this year I was a year older and therefore a year slower. Last year, if you recall, I spent just less than an hour in the blind before a turkey was flopping in the decoys and my season was over. This year however, it was closer to an hour and a half before turkeys showed up and instead of flopping close to the blind he was staggering off necessitating a follow up shot. So thirtyish minutes longer, two shots and further from the blind. It’s hell getting old. My Personal Guide has banned me from that spot. I think he wants to hunt there. I don’t know what he’ll do for the rest of the season when it’s over by noon on the first day. Well, probably something silly like plant his crops. Labor Day is in the rearview mirror. That can only mean one thing, and that one thing is ice fishing is just around the corner. Oh yeah, and I’m not sure, but I think deer season happens sometime soon as well. Actually it means two things. Thing two is the Cubs may have a chance at the playoffs this year. As I write this I don’t think the Cubs will win the division, the Brewers have been playing out of their

minds during the second half of the season. Remember when the Cards were the Cubs number one enemy? That seems to have fallen by the wayside to be replaced by a bitter rivalry with the Brewers. As you read this I hope to be basking in the glow of at least one Cubs playoff win. I don’t ask for much, just make the playoffs and win a game, or several. Please? Why, I’d even go so far as to let Sir Winterkill win the big fish contest next year if the Cubs could win the World Series. Have a safe and successful deer season and don’t fall through the ice. I wrote this true and believable story around Labor Day 2025. Somehow it got lost in the ether. Either that or I forgot to send it. The Cubs did win at least one game in the playoffs, in fact they won four and I was, and still am, basking like a hound dog laying on the front porch in the warm spring sun. The Cubs did not win the World Series so it looks like I’ll need to let Sir Winterkill win the big fish contest again this summer. Turkey season is just around the corner and it remains to be seen if I can continue my streak or if this is the year that I get my comeuppance…. Stay tuned, I’m sure there will be more to the story.

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The gear you need from the brands you trust. Home to brands such as Stealth Cam, Walkers, Cold Steel, Muddy, HME, Wild Game, Ameristep, Tenzing, Avain, Big Game, Flextone, NAP, and many more. www.gsmoutdoors.com Ph. 877-269-8490 email info@gsmorg.com

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IOWA BOWHUNTERS ASSOCIATION 100% CLUBS AND AFFILIATE CLUBS

Iowa Bowhunters Association 100% Clubs are archery clubs across the state in which every member is also a member of the IBA. These clubs receive special recognition and support from the IBA, including the following benefits: Benefits for IBA 100% Clubs • Discounted IBA memberships • Full rights and privileges of IBA membership for all club members • Opportunity to host the Iowa Games 3D Shoot • 3D shoot schedule posted on the IBA website • Recognition and a special attendance award at the Spring Banquet • Club recognition on the IBA website and in the Bowhunter newsletter

• Dedicated section in the Bowhunter newsletter • Eligible for IBA grants to purchase new targets IBA Affiliate Clubs are clubs whose members are not all IBA members, but who actively encourage their members to join the IBA. In turn, the IBA promotes these clubs to its membership, supporting growth at the local level. Benefits for IBA Affiliate Clubs • Discounted IBA memberships • 3D shoot schedule posted on the IBA website • Club recognition on the IBA website and in the Bowhunter newsletter

Clayton County Archers Elkader, Iowa Hickory Ridge Bowhunters Pella, Iowa Pottawattamie Bowhunters Council Bluffs, Iowa Blackhawk Archers Waterloo, Iowa Raymond Bowhunters Raymond, Iowa Pine Lake Archers Eldora, Iowa Wapello Chief Bowmen

Ottumwa, Iowa Atlantic Archers Atlantic, Iowa Mid-Iowa Archers Indianola, Iowa South Central Bowhunters Chariton, Iowa Echo Valley Archers West Union, IA Riceville Archery Club Riceville, IA

Your IBA board has been contemplating what else we can do for the 100% clubs. Along with reduced member rates, member coupons, IBA Shootout participant, Iowa Games host, and individual newsletter section, we have decided to also include at no cost a shoot schedule for your club (no larger than one half page). Just get your schedule to the editor by the newsletter deadline and it will be included in the next issue of the Iowa Bowhunter.

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DNR Well, we are in the midst of the spring turn over. Geese are flying north, turkeys are gobbling and deer are shedding the 2025 antlers. Next thing you know I’ll behind on my lawn mower service and garden planting. What this all really means is that the wheel keeps spinning. It has been an eventful few months for the DNR. The 2025 deer season ended with good harvest numbers, (check your local area) but also continues to add additional questions to the future of deer in Iowa. We will tackle a couple of topics in this article. It is always good to hear what people are seeing and what they are thinking about when it comes to Iowa’s wildlife. The DNR just wrapped up its annual hunter listening sessions from around the State. If you had a chance to participate, Thank you. If you could not participate please reach out and let us know your opinions on how rules are impacting the way you hunt your favorite species. What we have learned from past meetings is that Iowan’s are heavily in favor of the removal of trail cameras from public land. This is very likely a rule change that will be addressed this year and potentially in place by this upcoming fall season. Rule changes take time and there is a process, we will do our best to keep you informed. The second big thing to be aware of is the rezoning of Iowa’s deer season. If this is news to you then listen up. Through a series of meetings across western Iowa over the last two year’s the public has expressed a deep concern for the low deer numbers in that part of the State. This fall a new deer zone will be created “Zone” B that will have different rules than in the past. Instead of one general deer zone for the whole State we will have 2 zones ( A and B). Zone A will see little change, other than some western counties will have the

first season gun restricted to bucks only. Zone B will however be buck only for all seasons, with a few exceptions for youth, disabled and landowners. Sounds radical to some, but this is no different than how we used to manage deer back in the 70’s and early 80’s. I know I am aging myself and hence when I started the article we were talking about the wheel spinning or making a full circle (if you catch my analogy). With this rule change we would expect to see the deer population start to rebound in the western counties in the next few years. Remember this is like turning a ship, slow and paced gets us to our destination. We are also continuing to track the spread of chronic wasting disease. Through the 2025-2026 season we have detected CWD in 40 of Iowa’s 99 counties. If you are interested in more details I would refer you to the DNR webpage for updated maps. Epizootic hemorrhagic disease reports were very low across the State this year. That information can also be located on the DNR deer health webpage. The take home message is we are all in this circle together to manage the resources we all cherish. Do your best to keep us informed and we will do the same for you.Let’s have great conversations about the future of Iowa’s deer plan and keep this circle rolling for a long time. I always enjoy talking about Iowa’s forest wildlife species. I am available for your questions anytime. Contact me at james.coffey@dnr.iowa.gov or send your questions to the IBA editor and I will do my best to answer them.

Percent Change in 5 Year Average Buck Harvest Percent Change < -20%

-20% to -10% -10% to -5% -5% to +5% +5% to +10% > +10%

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STATE NASP SHOOT MEDIA CONTACT: Zach Benttine, Iowa DNR Archery Education & Outreach Coordinator , at 515-205-8709 or Zach.Benttine@dnr.iowa.gov DES MOINES - Nearly 2700 students from more than 146 schools from across Iowa competed at the 19th Annual National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) State Tournament at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines from March 27-29. This is the largest youth archery tournament in Iowa. Archers competed in both Bullseye and 3D competitions at the Varied Industries Building and the Richard O. Jacobson Exhibition Center at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. This year, the bullseye competition moved to the Varied Industries building for extra space, allowing up to 150 competitors to shoot at the same time. 48 targets were set up for the 3D competition, allowing for up to 98 participants at a time. Iowa student participation in the National Archery in the Schools Program has grown each year beginning from scratch in 2006 to now more than 5,200 participants in 2026. The program promotes student education and lifelong participation in the sport of archery. It aims to provide international-style target archery training in physical education classes for grades 4-12. "As one of Iowa's finest youth sports programs, the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) is about more than just competition. It’s about teaching discipline and perseverance, empowering students of all skill levels, and fostering the confidence and personal development necessary for them to succeed," said Zach Benttine, archery coordinator for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Archers participating in the Iowa Archery in the Schools Program can earn money for college. More than $30,000 will be awarded in college scholarships based on performance at the state tournament. Top individuals and teams will advance to the national tournament held in Louisville, Kentucky from May 7-9. To learn more about the program, watch our 2026 Archery in the Schools Tournament recap on the Iowa DNR's YouTube channel. Complete tournament results are available online: Bullseye Results 3D Results

The St. James Elementary Archery team, Washington IA would like to thank the Iowa Bowhunters Association for helping fund our 3D target purchase. Thank you Zach Benttine for your assistance in filing the grants. IOWA ARCHERY IN THE SCHOOLS - NASP 2026 Iowa Archery in the schools State Championship Highlights Iowa Bowhunter's Associatio "Cal Stuchen Memorial" Senior Scholarship Recipients (Performance Based) $500 - Bullseye Top Senior Boy Tate Kuehn , Prairie High School (Cedar Rapids) 291 $500 - Bullseye Top Senior Girl Mia Ferring , Valley High School 289 $500 - 3D Top Senior Boy Timm Chandonia , South Tama 288 (not pictured) $500 - 3D Top Senior Girl Mia Ferring , Valley High School 284 Congratulations Archers!

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BOWHUNTER PAGES YOUTH AWARDS

Asher Loftus 1st Place Youth Big Buck

Lincoln Steege 1st Deer with a Bow

Emma Low 1st Deer with a Bow

Ella Wilson 1st Place Big Turkey Award

MEN BIG BUCK

1st Place Leonard Grimes

2nd Place Jordan Pleima

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BOWHUNTER PAGE

IBA President Loren Wakeman presenting Terry Koppes the President Award

IBA President Loren Wakeman presenting Travis Graves the IBA/TIP Officer of the Year Award

Randy Weber being presented the IBA NASP Coach of the Year Award

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BOWHUNTER PAGES

If you are an archery shop or a 100% Club and would like to hang this 24" x 36" banner in your shop or club please contact us at: lorenwakeman1981@gmail.com or tayphoto1950@gmail.com

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SPONSORS

Infinito Safaris and Double Lung Archery, Inc. www.doublelungarcheryinc.com

Join the “Hunt With Double Lung” group every June, or book you own hunt dates. Dave and Charl at Infinito Safaris make your dream hunt happen. LaPorte City, IA 319-342-4550 dave.stueve@gmail.com

MATLABAS GAME HUNTERS

www.matlabas.co.za Matlabas Game Hunters is committed to conservation and our strict management policies keep game populations at healthy numbers. We cater to all bow hunters, whether you shoot traditional, compound, or crossbow. Your adventure will not just simply be a visit to Africa, but

Africa will become a part of you forever! Ph - (27) 878080861 or (27) 829000227 (27) 829000227 email - info@matlabas.co.za

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FOR YOUR INFORMATION Membership Expiration Many people do not know when their IBA membership expires. To alleviate this a bit, the last time you renewed is shown following your name in the address section on the back of the particular issue.

LIFE MEMBERS

We have life member pins available upon request at no charge to you. We do not mail them out, but you can contact any board member and make arrangements to get one. It would be best to just come to a board meeting

(dates listed in the Iowa Bowhunter) and pick it up, but another arrangement would be fine also, it is shaped in a arrowhead and has IBA LIFE MEMBER printed on it.

Looking for a Few Good Men or Women

Are you at that stage in life that you have some time that you would like to volunteer and give back. Your kids have left the nest and you don’t have grandkids yet. Are you a dedicated Bowhunter that cares enough about our sport that you are willing to give up five days a year? The IBA is looking for a few good men or women to run for the board of directors. As in any organization, we need new people to introduce new ideas and stay current with the times to be successful, and also to continually improve the IBA organization. Your involvement helps to ensure that the hunting opportunities we enjoy now will continue for generations to come. The board meets five times a year and never during an archery season; after all we are bowhunters. Three of the meetings are held separately in Des Moines, one is in Des Moines during the SPRING Banquet, and one is in Eldora during the Fall Festival. If you would like more information please contact one of the people to the right. Terry Koppes 641-858-7182 tmkoppes@heartofiowa.net Randy Taylor 641-521-1050 tayphoto1950@gmail.com Denny Bradley 641-226-2584 bowhunterdb@gmail.com

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NASP & YOUTH BOWHUNTER Youth Scholarship Essay Contest The IBA will be offering a five hundred dollar scholarship to a youth, graduating senior of current year that is a member of the IBA. To earn this scholarship, you must write an essay not more than 500 words on at least two of the following topics, and include a photo of yourself. 1. What Bowhunting has taught me 2. What the IBA means to me 3. My most memorable experience with a bow These essays must be in the hands of your IBA President no later than July 5. Members of the IBA Board of Directors will judge them. This scholarship cannot be given to the same person more than once; and will be announced at the Fall Festival. This scholarship will be given when notice of college enrollment is provided to the IBA Treasurer; and the check will be written to the college. This essay must be in your own readable handwriting and not an electronic document. See the Board Member section of Bowhunter or the Website for your IBA President’s contact and address information. I would like to publish some of our youth’s stories, but haven’t received any for quite some time. Please send your stories to the editor (see page 2). They can be anything from hunting to NASP to helping put in a food

plot to anything you want. IBA Board of Directors

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YOUTH BOWHUNTER KAMP FOR KIDS

The Iowa Bowhunters Association has been the main supporter of the Iowa Ted Nugent Kamp For Kids since 2011. The TNKFK Iowa started in 2011, with the support of many local and statewide volunteers and supporters with the intention of getting kids involved in outdoor adventure activities. The day-long camp includes the staple events of archery, air guns, and fishing. We also alternate other courses of wrist rockets, wildlife identification, compass navigation, aerial archery, trapping, muzzle loading, and more depending on the year. It takes a lot to put the Iowa TNKFK on for 100 kids at the one day event. 30 to 40 volunteers are needed as session instructors, as mentors for the 6 different groups of kids, for checking in the kids, and for cooking and serving over 300 hot dogs for lunch. The Park staff at Arrowhead Park in Neola play a very integral part in the event. Park Ranger Dave Fischer and crew spend the week of TNKFK mowing and preparing the park in advance of the kamp. On the day of the kamp, Dave and his crew perform a number of tasks, including keeping ice water buckets full, hauling trash and recyclables, and clean ing the bathrooms. Since 2011, there have been over 1400 kids through the TNKFK one-day event. Several volunteers for the event have been previous kamp participants, which demonstrates the impact the kamp has on participants. The Iowa Bowhunters can be very proud that they help provide these kids an opportunity to participate in a variety of events that get them involved in outdoor adventure activities.

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DEER HARVEST UPDATE: Regular Season Summary

Deer Research Program, IOWA DNR During the 2025-26 regular deer seasons, approximately 99,500 deer harvests have been reported statewide ( +1% to prior season & -4% to 5-year average). Below is a figure depicting these harvest comparisons at the wildlife management unit (WMU) and wildlife region district scale, as well as a table showing harvest totals by county (attached). Please keep in mind that these harvest totals are summarized for regular seasons only and do not include harvest from special January seasons. Over the last few years, we've seen changes emerge in our harvest data that suggest a stable/increasing deer population in the eastern region (Maquoketa, Upper Iowa, Cedar-Wapsi, Iowa River, Odessa WMUs) and reduced deer numbers throughout much of the rest of the state. The most severe harvest declines are evident in Sugema, Saylorville, Rathbun, Nishnabotna, Missouri River, Blackhawk and Grand River WMUs—

which corresponds to the regions most impacted by the 2023 & 2024 hemorrhagic disease outbreaks. These divergent population trajectories highlight why Iowa's deer populations are best discussed regionally, since important dynamics are often lost in the statewide summaries. Many of you are hearing from members of the public who may be upset that January antlerless seasons are being held despite what they're perceiving as a serious population decline. It's important for these folks to understand that the Excess Tag season is established in Iowa Code to be held unconditionally in any county with excess antlerless tags. On the other hand, our department does annually establish a list of counties eligible for the concurrent Population Management season, which will be revisited in the coming months using all available data. As we begin our process of exploring deer regulations for the 2026-27 season and beyond, please continue to be a voice for the hunters, landowners, and the deer resource in your counties during the District Deer Meetings next month.

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The IBA completes this purpose through the following:  By improving and increasing the opportunities for bowhunting.  By cooperating with and supporting federal and state agencies, sportsmen’s associations, and conservation organizations, which are insuring the propagation and preservation of game animals in their natural habitat.  By encouraging and conducting educational programs designed to acquaint the public and the archer with the safe and ethical use of bowhunting as an effective method of hunting legal game.  By supporting youth involvement in bowhunting through our continued support of the Iowa Archery in Schools Program. More information on our organization can be found at www.iowabowhunters.org or on Facebook at Iowa Bowhunters Association. Please consider joining our organization, and help us continue to protect, defend, and promote bowhunting and all our natural resources in this great state of Iowa for generations to come. WHAT IS THE I.B.A? The I.B.A. is a statewide association made up of bowhunters. Its purpose is to protect, defend, and promote bowhunting in the state of Iowa. HOW OLD IS THE I.B.A? The Iowa Bowhunters Association was organized in 1967 by a group of thirteen dedicated bowhunters from the state. This group, the original board of directors, had over fifty years of bowhunting experience. In addition, this group had many years of hunting big game and small game with firearms. IOWA BOWHUNTERS ASSOCIATION RELATED INFORMATION

The Iowa Bowhunters Association Mission Statement. The IBA is a statewide

association made up of bowhunters. Its purpose is to protect, defend, and promote the sport of archery and bowhunting for all legal game in Iowa using long bow, recurve, and compound bow equipment.

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IOWA BOWHUNTERS ASSOCIATION RELATED INFORMATION

IBA MEMBERSHIP DUES!!! $25.00 regular member 100% club members receive discounts for membership dues as long as all members belong - $23.00 (Now available - 1, 2 or 3 year memberships) Check Your Address Label For Membership Expiration Mail to: Ben Low, 1501 N 23rd St., Clear Lake, IA 50428, blow@fivestarcoop.com IBA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION Name ____________________________________ Date_________________________ Address_ ______________________________________________________________ City _ ____________________________________State _ ______ Zip______________ Phone _ __________________E-mail_ ______________________________________ If current member, is this an address change?_ _______________ New Member_________ Renewal __________ Help keep the tradition of bowhunting healthy for today and tomorrow.

 1 year membership ($25)  2 year membership ($46)  3 year membership ($69)  Lifetime membership ($400)

ALL ARE SINGLE/FAMILY MEMBERSHIPS

Total Amount Due_ _________________ Payment Method:  Cash  Check  Money Order You can pay by credit card on our website.

Please detach form and send your dues to: IBA Treasurer , 1501 N 23rd St., Clear Lake, IA 50428

YOU CAN ALSO VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND USE OUR CONVENIENT ONLINE APPLICATION FEATURING

IBA Kiko Tovar Lifetime Achievement Award Past Recipients

Laverne Woock (one of founding fathers) Cal Struchen Grant Poindexter

Erv Wagner Ron Steege Craig Eckhardt Randy Taylor

Jim Coles Bill Stonebraker Travis Glidden

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LIFE MEMBERS IOWA BOWHUNTERS ASSOCIATION RELATED INFORMATION

Robert Roach Evansdale, IA Laverne Woock Waterloo, IA Richard Eldridge Booklyn, IA Richard Harris LaPorte City, IA Dennis (Whitey) Johnson Waterloo, IA Leroy Matthias Waterloo, IA Gene Winter Waterloo, IA Craig Eckhardt Hampton, IA Terry Schulz Duncombe, IA David MacDonald Waverly, IA David Willis Lake City, IA Matt B. Koenig Ankeny, IA Dave Holt Lakewood, CO Michael Heaser Minneiska, MN Murray Stewart Kearny, MO Don Brazelton Ankeny, IA Mark Armstrong Council Bluffs, IA Mick Brown Council Bluffs, IA Larry Stewart Martelle, IA Bill Behrens Cedar Falls, IA Doug Clayton Council Bluffs, IA Nathan Dirks Spirit Lake, IA John Carlson Lake Mills, IA John Koschmeder Riceville, IA Robert Rust Webb, IA Tom Oldfather Elk Run Heights, IA Todd Lehigh Omaha, NE Rayneal McKim Altoona, IA Gary Rieck Waverly, IA Richard Kelly Missouri Valley, IA Hampton, IA Larry Zach

Randy Cooling Dexter, MI Patrick Sullivan Cedar Rapids, IA Chris Barton Farragut, IA Don Eggleston Waverly, IA Dana Rogers Box Elder, SD Bill Branderhorst Newton, IA Paul (Buck) Farni Durango, IA Steven Mosnik Marion, IA Ed Ulicki Lehigh, IA Donnie Morris Sully, IA Roger Bowen Council Bluffs, IA Robert Seger Ft. Dodge, IA Tim Friday Union, IA Ron Shrout Gillett, PA Douglas Beckman Carroll, IA Mike Blanchard Muscatine, IA Shawn Ryan Davenport, IA John Keenan Tama, IA Harvey Dirks Cedar Rapids, IA Richard Schmitz, Jr. Clinton, IA Lynn Hoch Indianola, IA Tom (Fishbonker) Toycen Mount Vernon, IA Randy Taylor Reasnor, IA Jason Guisinger Clive, IA Kent E. Halstead Donnellson, IA Daryl Landsguard Saint Olaf, IA Kelly White Saylorville, IA Des Moines, IA John Haberl Carroll, IA Gary Liebsch Glenwood, IA Daniel Loftus Douds, IA David Lent Marion, IA Paul Fults

Timothy Callahan Primgar, IA Daniel Young Des Moines, IA Robert T. Buckley Waterloo, IA Charles Masko Swisher, IA Steven Sears Council Bluffs, IA Brian Wessel Keokuk, IA Barry Smith Wheatridge, CO Grant Pointdexter Indianola, IA Hunter White Saylorville, IA Charles Rehor Rehoboth, MA Michael Mealey Indianola, IA Jim Kieler Raymond, IA Matthew Kieler Bill & Mary Stonebraker Eldora, IA Terry Tremmel Indianola, IA Joshua Carter Nichols, IA Reed E. Burres Humboldt, IA Jeff Inlow Orient, IA Clark Schmitz Brunsville, IA Terry Konchalski Des Moines, IA Troy Powell Stuart, IA Shann Poindexter Melrose, IA Kelly Kendall Eldora, IA John Dudley Indianola, IA Tom Litchfield Chariton, IA Brian Poindexter Indianola, IA Boyd Mathes Pella, IA Raymond, IA Jacob Kieler Raymond, IA Jeff Manzer Story City, IA Mike Zoellner Shelby, IA Bob & Karen Branchcomb Milo, IA

Troy Westrum Stratford, IA Mathew Jessen Altoona, IA Jon Christensen Mount Ayr, IA Robin Klemme Merrill, IA Dray Walter Blockton, IA Jim Colwell Knoxville, IA Denny Bradley Ottumwa, IA Cory Wolf North Liberty, IA David Nennig Osceola, IA Mathew Andrews Tunkhannock, PA Bob Haney Donnie Acheson W. Des Moines, IA Tammy Kent New Market, IA Nick Wetjen New Hartford, IA Ted Boos Johnston, IA Dave Hugen Hamilton, IA Dennis Evans Humboldt, IA David Holder Winterset, IA Randy Knight Murry, IA Adam Dodds Ames, IA Wyatt Westberg Adel, IA Jeff Westberg Woodward, IA Travis Glidden Garner, IA Jeff Dodds Ames, IA Ryan Helgerson Eagle River, AK Joel Helgerson Eagle River, AK Ty Glidden Garner, IA Jordan Feller Logan, IA William Crary Cedar Rapids, IA Bill Winke Albia, IA Thomas McMahon Fairfield, IA Des Moines, IA Travis Haney Des Moines, IA Scott Rolffs Lynville, IA

Matt Andrews Tunkhannock, PA Don Mealey Norwalk, IA Nathan and Jessica Graham New Virginia, IA Brenda Haney Norwalk, IA Chase McDonald Chariton, IA Dan Krettek Elkhart, IA Dan Folkman Bondurant, IA Rick Cerwick Waukee, IA Gary Rankin Waterloo, IA Brian Skellenger Greenfield, IA Kevin Nolan Van Horne, IA Randy Mcpherren Unionville, IA Taaffe Caligiuri Osceola, IA Charles Sligh Urbandale, IA Kevin Anderson Huxley, IA Dennis Bailey Mason City, IA Chris Dunkin Hamilton, IA Roger and Susan Parker Story City, IA Randy Nessler West Branch, IA Dustin and Richele Loftus Indianola, IA Paul Kostelecky Lineville, IA Derek Dolan Mc Gregor, IA John Fletcher Goldfield, IA Ron Steege Harpers Ferry, IA James Bartlett Des Moines, IA Jordan Schwark Nora Springs, IA Loren Wakeman Centerville, IA Joe Kingsbury Cale Perry Waukee, IA Keith Beam Sauk City, WI

Garry Brandenburg Albion, IA Benjamin Adams Chariton, IA Chelsea Wilder Newton, IA Branden Knight Shenandoah, IA David Hoffman Clear Lake Christian Thurnau Nora Springs Nick Williams Waukee Randy DeVries Pella Jake Steede Oskaloosa Ben Adams Chariton, IA Matt Doxtater Bloomfield, IA Matt Koenig Hampton, IA Jeremy Swan Prairie City, IA Nick Williams Waukee, IA Zac Binder St Charles, IA Wyatt Hollander Indianola, IA Heath Martin Osceola, IA Tor Pointdexter Indianola, IA Jake Riley Lewisburg, TN Warren Rush Prole, IA Marty Edwards

Kellerton IA Dan Mork Sac City, IA Scott Helms Decorah, IA Bill Manske Algona. IA.

Greg Hraha Indianola IA Robert Cappelli

Weatherford TX Joshua Brink Waukon, IA Dennis Bartch Foristell, MO Daniel Hawthorne Winterset, IA Christian Overholtzer Granger, IA

Mike Nichols Van Meter, IA Brent Wykert North Liberty,IA

Souix City, IA Lucas Hinke Bondurant, IA

Ritch Stolpe Sioux City, IA

Randy Nessler West Branch, IA

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IOWA BOWHUNTERS ASSOCIATION RELATED INFORMATION BOARD MEMBERS Loren Wakeman, President 2021 S 15th Street Centerville, IA 52544 712-441-2873 Lorenwaken1981@gmail.com Larry Krohn Solon, IA 52333 319-360-1707 lwkrohn11@gmail.com John LaBar West Des Moines Denny Bradley Ottumwa, IA 52501

JD McDonald Chariton, IA 50049 641-203-1029 jdmcdonald67@gmail.com Jon Christensen Mount Ayr, IA 50854 319-325-3389 jonchristensen53@gmail.com Randy McPherren Unionville, IA 52594 641-895-4242 rpmcpherren@iowatelecom.net

Randy Taylor, Vice President, Editor 9965 Shrine Street Reasnor, IA 50232 641-793-2736 tayphoto@netins.net

Christopher Erickson Des Moines, IA 50310 christopherserickson@gmail.com

Dave Hoffman Clear Lake, IA 50428 641-231-1914 cell dhoffman1008@gmail.com

Terry Koppes, Secretary Eldora, IA 50627 641-858-7182 Tmkoppes@heartofiowa.net Ben Low, Treasurer 1501 N 23rd St Clear Lake, IA 50428 641-858-6208 ibatreasurer@gmail.com

Chase McDonald Newton, IA Mike Fairchild Runnells, IA Larry Rosauer La Porte City, IA

Dexter Yaddof Mediapolis, IA 50257 563-528-4296 d.yaddof@yahoo.com

Becoming a junior area representative is not a free ride so to speak, but does include some expectations and responsibilities. New ideas are always welcome and hopefully these youngsters will be able to provide some to our organization. Providing feedback by means of the Iowa Bowhunter newsletter is one way of keeping in touch and relaying information to other young members of the IBA. Providing pictures, writing an article, and helping out at events are all ways to get involved. An example would be to write about an experience at an NASP tournament, or the Fall Festival, or one of your hunting excursions. As always, you don’t have to be a junior area rep to provide articles, pictures, or other information.That is welcome from all members. Congratulations to these young people and welcome to the junior area rep venture. JUNIOR AREA REPRESENTATIVES RELATED INFORMATION

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IOWA BOWHUNTERS ASSOCIATION RELATED INFORMATION

Name_________________________________ Age_____________ Address________________________________________________ Phone_________________________________________________ All entries must be postmarked by February 28th

1. You must be a member, in good standing, at the time you harvest your entry. 2. All game must be taken within the rules of fair chase. 3. All entries must he postmarked by Feb. 28th. 4. All P&Y entries must be on P&Y or B&C score sheet and signed by an official scorer. 5. All entries must he accompanied with photo. Information must he written on back of photo. (Name, address, award). 6. All applicants must be at FALL Banquet to receive an award.

7. All age restrictions are at time of harvest. 8. All late season animals that require drying time for entry will qualify for next years banquet. 9. Entrant must submit this application with photo. 10. Entries for Photo Contest must be delivered prior to Banquet date. Unless other arrangements made NOTE: • Acceptance of awards application will require the following of all rules (No Exceptions) • I.B.A. is not responsible for entries lost in the mail.

BIG BUCK AWARDS a. Men’s Division b.

BIG GAME (Certificate) a. For the FIRST big game animals of a species 16 YEARS AND UNDER AWARD (Certificate) a. Awards given for any Iowa Whitetails or Turkeys MASTER BOWHUNTER (Certificate) a. Five different species of big game animals (no turkeys) Deer must be forked or better EXPERT BOWHUNTER (Certificate) a. Iowa Whitetail deer only b. Must accumulate 8 points in a 3 year period c. Points are earned as follows: 4 points for a P&Y buck 3 points for a forked buck or better 1 point for doe May use 1 doe per award P&Y SCORE PTS., WEIGHT TOM/ HEN OR ANY OTHER INFO b.

BIG FISH AWARDS (Certificate) a. First place men’s division b. First place women’s division c. First place youth division (17 years & under) d. All entries must be weighed on scales legal for trade and signed by a witness.

Women’s Division Youth Division

c. d. e.

Minimum of 125 P&Y points Printable photograph Awards-given-for-Typical & Non-Typical in each Division Only top 3 places in each division receive plaques.

f.

PHOTO CONTEST a.

g.

Wildlife division (Certificate) Still life division (Certificate) Hunting scene (Certificate) Trail Camera Division Best in show (Plaque) All photos must be 8x10 inches

BIG GAME AWARDS (Certificate) a. All big game animals must meet P&Y minimum scores

b. c. d. e.

BIG TURKEY AWARDS a. 1st place plaque b.

f.

All others receive cert.

c.

Must be weighed and measured the same as IDNR rules. Send copy of form.

DATE MONTH

LOCATION COUNTY, STATE

WITNESS

Type of award or animal

MAIL ENTRIES TO: IBA Awards, c/o Randy Taylor; 9965 Shrine St; Reasnor, IA. 50232 Photos for awards are to be mailed to Randy Taylor at same address as above or email tayphoto1950@gmail.com.

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IOWA BOWHUNTERS ASSOCIATION RELATED INFORMATION

AREA REPRESENTATIVES

ADVISORS

LEGISLATIVE Randy McPherren 314 W. Union Street Unionville, IA 52594 641-895-4242 rpmcpherren@iowatelecom.net

IBA LOBBYIST Eric Goranson

IBA WEBMASTER Novel Designs 800-700-1350 INFO@thenoveldesigns.com PUBLICATIONS EDITOR Randy Taylor 9965 Shrine Street Reasnor, IA 50232 641-521-1050 tayphoto1950@gmail.com

Randy Taylor 9965 Shrine Street Reasnor, IA 50232 641-793-2736 tayphoto@netins.net IBEF STATE COORDINATOR Zachary Benttine

NORTHWEST Robin Klemme 22001 Kestrel Ave. Merrill, IA 51038 712-541-8426

NORTHEAST Daryl Landsgard 17613 Gunder Rd. St. Olaf, IA 52072 563-783-2451 maplelawn@netins.net SOUTHEAST

SOUTH CENTRAL Tammy McDonald 1626 Roland Chariton, IA 50049 641-774-4241 jdtam@iowatelecom.net Doyle Kincy 7304 Monroe Ct Urbandale, IA 50322 515-710-4752 dwkincy@msn.com Andrew Jackson 6155 Cedar Crest Dr. Apt. #103 Johnston, IA 50131 515-238-1332 jacksona2@central.edu

Al Coblentz 706 13th St. Kalona, IA 52247 319-530-4610

aktt@mchsi.com Mike Robertson 2129 12th St. Camanche, IA 52730 mcrobertson@mchsi.com Brian Wessel 36 Prices Creek Rd. Keokuk, IA 52632 319-313-9251 brianwessel@ymail.com

ADVERTISING RATES (Must be an IBA member) (Send ads to the editor)

4-Newsletters: Full Page Ad.....................................1 Issue.......................................$ 100.00 1 Year.............................................375.00 Half Page Ad....................................1 Issue.............................................60.00 1 Year.............................................220.00

Quarter Page Ad...........................1 Issue.............................................40.00 1 Year..............................................140.00 Business Card Ad.........................1 Issue.............................................25.00 1 Year...............................................80.00

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