Hook & Hunt Clay Shoot @ Yarmouth

Hook & Hunt University is partnering with the Yarmouth Gun Club for an evening of fun and shooting sports! Whether you're gearing up for hunting season or looking to try something new, come join us for a friendly round of clay shooting.

Cost: (Pay at event)

$14 for 25 clays with shells included

$6 for 25 clays if you bring your own shells

We’ll provide firearms, ear protection, and eye protection for anyone who needs them. Open to both adults and kids—beginners welcome!

RSVP by September 16th to secure your spot.

Let’s break some clays and get ready for the season ahead!

For More Information
Contact: Marcus Nack
(319) 753-5808
Nackm@dmcounty.com

Posted by: Conservation

DMCC Ladies Adventure Group Wildflower Hike

Join the Des Moines County Conservation Ladies Adventure Group for a relaxing Wildflower Hike on Wednesday, September 24 from 5:00–6:30 PM at Big Hollow Recreation Area!
We’ll meet at the Observatory parking lot and take a short walk while learning about the beautiful wildflowers that call Iowa home. It’s a fun and easy way to connect with nature and other women who love the outdoors.
This is a FREE event, but pre-registration is required.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water—we’ll provide the wildflowers and good company.

For More Information
Contact: Shania Hansen
(319) 753-5808
hansens@dmcounty.com

Posted by: Conservation

HHU Squirrel Hunt Scramble

HHU Squirrel Hunt Scramble

Hook & Hunt University is hosting the Squirrel Hunt Scramble at Gahn Recreation Area — a location with limited public use, making it a quiet and ideal setting for learning in the field.

Participants will break into small groups led by experienced mentors to hunt squirrels. This event is open to both new and experienced hunters and is designed to provide a supportive environment to build hunting skills, learn about squirrel behavior and habitat, and practice safe firearm handling.

Event Details
Location: Gahn Recreation Area
Date: September 28th
Time: 8:00am-10:00am

Requirements:

Valid small game hunting license

RSVP required

Gear is available for those who need

The Squirrel Hunt Scramble is a great opportunity for HHU mentors and mentees to connect in the field while gaining practical experience.

For more information or to RSVP, Marcus at nackm@dmcounty.com, or call 319-753-5808 

For More Information
Contact: Marcus Nack
(319) 753-5808
Nackm@dmcounty.com

Posted by: Conservation

Big Holloween

Come celebrate Halloween in the Campground! This all-ages public event will feature trick-or-treating among the participating RV's and costume contests at Big Hollow Recreation Area three miles west of Sperry.

You do not have to camp at the park to participate. Everyone is invited to participate in the events and trick-or-treat among the RV's.

4:30 PM - 7:00 PM: Trick or Treating and hayrack rides in the Campground

Costume Contest at 6:00 PM

For More Information
Contact: Des Moines County Conservation
(319) 753-8260
conservation@dmcounty.com

Posted by: Conservation

Hook & HUnt University - Youth Pheasant Hunt

This year, 2025, marks the 100th anniversary of the first official pheasant hunting season in Iowa. To celebrate this centennial, Des Moines County Conservation has partnered with the Aldo Leopold Pheasants Forever Chapter to host a youth pheasant hunt on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Huron Flats.
This event is a fantastic opportunity for young, aspiring hunters to experience the thrill of the hunt in a safe and supportive environment. The day will begin promptly with a mandatory safety meeting at 7:00 AM. Attendance at this meeting is required for all participants.

This event is open to youth hunters who are Iowa residents, 15 years of age or younger. They must be accompanied by a licensed adult who is 18 years of age or older. While the youth hunter does not need a hunting license or stamps, the accompanying adult must have a valid hunting license and habitat stamp if normally required.
Please note: RSVP is a must! Space is limited, so be sure to register in advance to secure your spot.

For More Information
Contact: Marcus Nack
(319) 753-5808
Nackm@dmcounty.com

Posted by: Conservation