Hey,

I too would like some reliable information on public land in Iowa.  I have a buddy who has spent three weeks out there this year, but he leased a section of private land which was pretty expensive.  He missed a 160"+ a couple weeks ago and has passed on numerous 130 class bucks.

They raised the cost of the preference points to $50 a year this year.  The number of points needed will depend on the area you plan on hunting as well as if you are hunting with a bow or firearm.  It will take 1-3 points depending on that criteria.  I have two points right now, but will probably wait one more year before I head there as I want to have a good plan in motion prior to heading out there.  While there is a ton of AG land out there, there are a fair amount of draws, trees, and creek bottoms to hunt as well.  

I want to make that trip as routine as possible though so every 3-4 years would be great unless I can find a good spot that doesn't take as many points.  

I'd love to hear from other out-of-staters who have experience there with DIY hunts.