Ruffed Grouse

IA Ruffed Grouse Hunting Guide

IAUpland
Bonasa umbellusIowaUpland

Also known as: Partridge, Ruffie

The ruffed grouse is a medium-sized grouse occurring in forests from the Appalachian Mountains across Canada to Alaska. It is the most widely distributed game bird in North America. It is not migratory. It is the only species in the genus Bonasa. The ruffed grouse is sometimes incorrectly referred to as a "partridge", an unrelated phasianid, and occasionally confused with the grey partridge, a bird of open areas rather than woodlands.

Hunting Season

Oct 4, 2025 - Jan 31, 2026.

Bag Limit: Check current Iowa regulations booklet for daily and possession limits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Regulations for hunting Ruffed Grouse in Iowa

Ruffed grouse hunting in Iowa is available in suitable forested habitat, primarily in northeastern and eastern Iowa. Blaze orange is required. Non-toxic shot is required on selected public areas. Grouse populations fluctuate with habitat conditions.

When is Ruffed Grouse hunting season in Iowa?

Oct 4, 2025 - Jan 31, 2026.

What is the bag limit for Ruffed Grouse in Iowa?

Check current Iowa regulations booklet for daily and possession limits.

What is another name for Ruffed Grouse?

Ruffed Grouse is also known as Partridge, Ruffie in Iowa.

References

State Category Directory Subcategory Content Source
Iowa Hunting Regulations Season Dates Oct 4, 2025 - Jan 31, 2026. Link
Iowa Hunting Regulations Regulations Ruffed grouse hunting in Iowa is available in suitable forested habitat, primarily in northeastern and eastern Iowa. Bla Link