| Species | General Size | Trophy Potential |
|---|---|---|
| Whitetail Deer | 120"-150" | 180"+ |
High
Low
This large zone lies in the south-central part of the state and boasts some of the largest bucks and most tags found in the state. Situated next to the famous Zone 5, this area boasts some incredible genetics with many record book bucks being killed here. Predominantly, the area is characterized by privately owned agricultural fields, interspersed with extensive stands of mature hardwood trees, and numerous creeks, rivers, reservoirs, and swamps. Private lands compose much of the landscape but there are some great public access opportunities and public land success is totally possible here.
Similar to many other zones across the state, private lands dominate, making public access crucial for the do-it-yourself (DIY) hunter. State lands are sporadically distributed throughout the area, particularly prevalent in the eastern half. Along with the scattered state lands, there are some great access options within wildlife management areas. While private lands offer the best chances for success, hunters willing to dedicate effort and time to exploring public lands can still find a punched tag at the end of their hunt. Oftentimes, the best private lands are generally leased by outfitters. Looking into outfitters can be a great way to drastically increase your odds of success, and your odds of finding a good buck.
Some of the bigger portions of land you might consider for public access:
Des Moines is located in the northeast corner of the unit and provides hunters access to anything they might need. Other large towns and communities are spread throughout the zone and can provide many modern housing options in the form of hotels, motels, and rental properties. Established campgrounds can also be found throughout the area, many of these being right near some of the bigger public land sections found here. Sporting goods can be found throughout the zone with the best selections being found in the larger cities. Groceries and normal amenities can be found in nearly all of the towns and communities.
Some of the larger towns and cities located in the zone:
Roughly 7,999 square miles
2% public land
Saylorville WMA - The Saylorville WMA is found in the northeastern corner of the unit and lies along the Des Moines River. This 11,000 acre piece of land features incredible river bottom country that can be excellent for deer hunting during any season.
Panora - the area around the town of Panora has several smaller WMA's that can all provide great access opportunities for deer hunters
Three Mile Lake WMA - This 2,800 acre piece of land is located is the central portion of this unit and just east of the town of Creston. Three Mile Lake is situated in the middle of this area with some exceptional hardwood stands surrounding it.
Sand Creek WMA - This 3,700 acre WMA is located in the southeast corner of the zone and provides access to some exceptional habitats including prairies, hardwood stamps, and riparian zones.
Dekalb WMA - This 2,100 acre WMA is located just east of the Sand Creek WMA and features some impressive and mature stands of hardwood timber for hunting. Hunters will find plenty of options here
Des Moines - Northeast Corner
Ames - Located just outside of the zone in the northeast corner
Winterset - East central
Osceola - Located just outside of the zone on the eastern edge
Creston - East central
Clarinda - Southwest corner
Red Oak - West central
Atlantic - Northwest corner
Jefferson - North central