And if they haven’t already completed the International Bow Hunter Safety Education Course, they must do that as well.

City officials have released the requirements that must be met before anyone can participate in the urban controlled bow hunting season, which will begin Sept. 16 and conclude Jan. 10, 2024.

Assistant City Manager Ryan Maehl said hunters wishing to take part in the urban hunt will face more requirements than they would for hunting in rural areas. He said that will ensure a safe hunt conducted by skilled hunters.

“You are going to get good, serious hunting sportsmen to do this,” he said.

People wishing to participate in the hunt should go to www.fortdodgeiowa.org/urbanbowhunt to complete the application.

If they have not already completed the safety course, prospective hunters must go online to www.bowhunter-ed.com/iowa.

To complete the proficiency test, hunters must contact the Iowa Outdoor Store, 1597 Third Ave. N.W., by calling (515) 955-4868 and asking for Aaron.

The test will consist of shooting 20 arrows at a target. Ten of those arrows will be shot from 15 yards away and 20 will be shot from 20 yards away. An archer must score 80 percent to pass.

The application and proof of completion of the safety course and proficiency test must be submitted by 4:30 p.m. Aug. 25.

Hunters must also attend an informational meeting on Aug. 29 in the Municipal Building, 819 First Ave. S.

The hunting will be conducted entirely on private property and each property that could potentially be hunted on must measure at least 200-by-200 yards. Maehl said hunters will be given maps showing the areas they could hunt in, but they will be responsible for getting permission to hunt in those areas.

Hunters must be at least six feet above the ground when they launch an arrow.

“So if you miss, it doesn’t take off, it goes into the ground,” police Capt. Steve Hanson said.

Only antler-less deer will be hunted. Up to 100 deer tags will be available for this hunt.

Following is a checklist for deer hunters interested in the upcoming hunt in Fort Dodge.

• Complete application found at www.fortdodgeiowa.org/urbanbowhunt.

• Complete International Bow Hunter Safety Education Course at www.bowhunter-ed.com/Iowa.

• Schedule proficiency test by calling Iowa Outdoor Store at (515) 955-4868.