Approved: Archery Controlled Deer Hunt at Scott County Park

Scott County is holding a special archery-only deer hunt in Scott County Park to help reduce the deer population. Too many deer can damage plants and disrupt the natural ecosystem, so the county uses controlled hunts to keep the population at a healthy level.

"The Scott County Conservation Board has approved a special deer hunt for archery hunters only from October 1, 2026, through January 10, 2027, at Scott County Park. This hunt is only for residents of Iowa. Applications are now available and need to be returned no later than Friday, July 31st, by 4:30 pm. For additional information, please visit the link below." -Scott County Conservation Board

Quick Info?

Only 15 hunters will be selected.
You must be an Iowa resident.
The hunt runs October 1, 2026, through January 10, 2027.
Only antlerless deer (does) can be harvested with these special permits.
2026 Hunt Information and Application

The Selection Process

During the first week of August, Scott County will randomly select 15 hunters for the special deer hunt. Everyone who applies will be notified whether they were selected or not.

The county may give priority to returning successful hunters, youth hunters, and hunters with disabilities.

A youth hunter is an Iowa resident who is 12–15 years old, has completed a hunter education course, meets all Iowa hunting license requirements, and hunts under the direct supervision of a parent, guardian, or another approved adult. Hunters needing special assistance should note it on their application so the county can contact them if they are selected.

The Hunter Safety Session and shooting proficiency tests will be required for ALL
SELECTED participants.