Do Active Duty Military Need a Fishing License in Iowa?

As a resident of Iowa, you may be wondering if active duty military personnel stationed outside the state are required to have a fishing license when visiting home. The good news is that active duty military members with legal residency in Iowa can fish without a license while on authorized leave from their duty station located outside the state.

New Veteran Hunting and Fishing Licenses in Iowa

In addition to the exemption for active duty military, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) now offers special hunting and fishing licenses for veterans who are residents of Iowa and have served in the U.S. Armed Forces on federal active duty. These new licenses, available starting April 12, 2024, provide significant discounts for veterans:

The new annual fishing license or hunting and fishing combo license costs just $5, plus a $2 processing fee.
To qualify, veterans must submit a one-time application for the Iowa Hunting/Fishing License for Resident Armed Forces Veteran, along with a copy of their DD214 showing an honorable or general discharge.
Once approved, veterans can purchase the discounted licenses anywhere Iowa hunting and fishing licenses are sold.

The Iowa DNR also offers a lifetime hunting and fishing license for veterans who have a service-connected disability or were prisoners of war (POWs).

Other Iowa Hunting and Fishing License Options

In addition to the special veteran licenses, the Iowa DNR provides several other options for residents looking to hunt, fish, or get involved in conservation efforts:

Free annual hunting and fishing licenses for permanently disabled Iowa residents with household incomes below the federal poverty guidelines, or for those 65 and older with low incomes.
Lifetime trout licenses for Iowa residents with a 100% service-connected disability or who qualify for the Disabled Veterans Homestead Credit.
Licenses for non-ambulatory deer hunting and severely disabled deer hunting.
Permits for using a motor vehicle in game management areas, state parks, or preserves for those with disabilities that make ambulation impossible without a vehicle.

To learn more about these options or get answers to any questions, visit the Iowa DNR website or contact their Customer Service Center at 515-725-8200.

The Iowa DNR plays a vital role in managing the state’s fish and wildlife programs, ensuring the health of forests and prairies, and providing recreational opportunities in state parks. They also enforce laws that protect Iowa’s air, land, and water through technical assistance, permitting, and compliance programs.

So whether you’re an active duty military member, a veteran, or an Iowa resident looking to enjoy the great outdoors, the Iowa DNR has options available to make fishing and hunting more accessible and affordable. Take advantage of these opportunities to connect with nature and create lasting memories in the beautiful state of Iowa.