Sitting in the deer blind this morning I had a lot of wood ducks swimming by and started wondering-found several references to it being legal in other states on google, can't find anything listed for IA. All I can find listed is nontoxic shot required, and the typical specific items you're not allowed to use-shotgun over 10 gauge, trap, punt gun etc. it didn't say you CAN"T shoot them with a bow, but it didn't say you can either.

I have had gotten quick responses from e mailing the IDNR

You will get an even quicker one if you give your local CO a call.  My experience is that they have been very helpful.

http://www.iowadnr.gov/Portals/idnr/uploads/Law%20Enforcement/dnrlemap.pdf

I'll probably end up doing that-they were back again this morning-if I get a deer tomorrow I'll just go to the same place with my shotgun the next day.

ETA-I'm a dumbass, forgot about duck season being split. Got to wait til the 15th now.

Just got a response from DNR. All other things being legal(in season, duck stamps, etc) it IS legal to use a bow for ducks. It is not legal to use a crossbow.

Check out Tim Wells Duck Hunts on you tube