Iowa Approves Hike in Hunting and Fishing Fees

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The Iowa Natural Resources Commission has approved a proposal to increase the fees for hunting and fishing licenses in the state. The changes include raising the cost of an annual fishing license by $1 to $21, a three-year fishing license going up $3 to $63, and a hunting license increasing $1 to $21. The commission chair says the fee hike is long overdue and needed.

Why it matters

The fee increases are intended to provide more funding for conservation efforts and wildlife management programs in Iowa, which have faced budget constraints in recent years. Hunting and fishing are popular recreational activities in the state, so the higher license costs will impact many residents and visitors.

The details

The Iowa Natural Resources Commission approved the proposal to raise hunting and fishing fees at its meeting yesterday. Commission chair Tom Prickett expressed elation that the issue was finally moving forward, stating 'I know we've had a lot of good discussion and comments from the public about that. I think it is well overdue and needed.' The fees have not been raised since 2019, and commissioners have pushed for several years to get the increase approved.

• The Iowa Natural Resources Commission approved the fee increases at its meeting yesterday (February 12, 2026).
• The last time hunting and fishing fees were raised in Iowa was in 2019.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The fee increases must now go through a public hearing process before receiving final approval.