The Outfitters

The Outfitters specializes in guided archery whitetail hunts across thousands of acres in Monona County's Loess Hills, just west of Mapleton, Iowa. These windblown sand hills are considered some of the most fertile lands in the world—and they hold some of Iowa's biggest bucks.

• •What sets them apart: Owner Paul Ranft was a hunter before he became an outfitter. He knows the frustration of not trusting your guide, wondering if he's being straight with you, questioning whether you'll actually harvest an animal. That's why The Outfitters operates differently.

• •Season: October through November (archery only)
• •Quality Management: Strict no-harvest policy on anything under 140 inches
• •Stand Setup: Ladder stands or box blinds on platforms (Shadow Hunter blinds or custom builds)
• •Policy: No-wounding guarantee—draw blood and your hunt is over
• •Booking: Booked years in advance; contact immediately if interested
• •Zone: Guided hunts in Zone 3 (Iowa deer permit draw)

The Outfitters also runs guided spring turkey hunts on the same property. Zone 5 hunts take place when birds are active. Many hunters use the spring season as a shed hunting opportunity while filling their turkey tag.

"We have cut a lot of the fat out of the cost of our hunts. We believe in providing you with the best opportunity to harvest an animal. Our accommodations are modest, but clean." – Paul Ranft

This isn't about luxury lodges or five-star meals. Repeat clients come back because they trust Paul and because they produce results.

The Outfitters also operates guided fishing charters out of Turtle Creek at Fenwick Marina near Oak Harbor, Ohio. Day trips depart at 7 AM and return at 3 PM, accommodating up to 6 anglers.

Walleye Fishing: - Spring: Trophy walleye in the 10-pound class during spawning season when 80% of the lake's population concentrates in the Western Basin - Summer: Freezer-stocking action with megapacks of resident walleye; limit catches are routine - Technique: Trolling with planer boards and dipsy divers - Cost: $125 per person (4-person minimum), discounts for consecutive day bookings

Perch Fishing: - Season: Mid to late summer through October (best action in September–October) - Method: "Perch jerking" from anchored positions using spreader rigs - Results: Limit catches (40 fish per angler) common in 2–3 hours - Target: 8–12 inch yellow perch, ideal for families and kids

For several years, The Outfitters has hosted free walleye fishing weekends for wounded military veterans. As a veteran himself, Paul uses this event to say thanks to those who sacrificed. Interested veterans can apply through Walleyes for Wounded Heroes.

Experience, honesty, and integrity aren't buzzwords here—they're the foundation. Paul doesn't oversell accommodations or hide his modest setup. He delivers results. Most clients return year after year. Most harvest an animal. And that's the guarantee.

• •Permit Applications: Apply online or call 800-367-1188
• •Deer (Zone 3): Apply in May
• •Turkey (Zone 5): Apply in January