If you’re planning a hunt in the Show-Me State, one of your first questions is likely, when is deer hunting season in Missouri? The answer depends on the specific type of deer hunting you want to do, as Missouri offers a long and varied series of seasons. This guide breaks down all the dates, regulations, and strategies you need for a successful and legal hunt this year.
Missouri is a top destination for whitetail hunters, with a healthy population and a management approach that provides multiple opportunities. From archery to firearms, and from youth seasons to special antlerless portions, there’s a season for almost every hunter. Knowing the exact dates and zone-specific rules is your first step to filling your tag.
When Is Deer Hunting Season In Missouri
Missouri’s deer hunting season isn’t just one date range. It’s a collection of seasons that run from mid-September through mid-January. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) sets these dates, and they can shift slightly from year to year. Always double-check the official MDC regulations before you head out, as they are the final authority. Below, we’ll outline the typical season framework you can expect.
Missouri Archery Deer Season
The archery season is the longest deer season in Missouri. It traditionally opens in mid-September and runs continuously through mid-January, with a break during the November firearms portion.
– Typical Dates: September 15 to January 15 (excluding the November Firearms Season).
– Equipment: Longbows, compound bows, recurve bows, and crossbows are permitted. Broadheads must have at least two sharp edges.
– Permits: You need an Archery Deer Hunting Permit. This permit allows you to take antlered deer and antlerless deer, but you must follow the county-specific antlerless restrictions.
This long season gives you the chance to hunt during the early season, the pre-rut, the post-rut, and the late season. Each phase requires different tactics and stand locations.
Missouri Firearms Deer Season
The November Firearms Season is the most popular and well-known hunting period. It’s a time-honored tradition for thousands of Missouri families.
– Typical Dates: Runs for 11 days in mid-November. Often the second Saturday through the third Tuesday.
– Equipment: Centerfire rifles, shotguns with slugs, muzzleloading rifles, and handguns meeting specific caliber requirements are allowed.
– Permits: You need a Firearms Any-Deer Hunting Permit. This permit allows you to take one deer of either sex, but again, you must check county regulations for antlerless availability.
During this season, hunter numbers are high, and deer movement patterns can change. Safety and clearly identifying your target are paramount.
Missouri Alternative Methods Season
This season follows the November firearms hunt and offers a unique challenge with restricted equipment.
– Typical Dates: Usually runs for 10 days starting in early December.
– Equipment: This includes muzzleloaders, centerfire pistols, air-powered rifles, and archery equipment. Shotguns and standard centerfire rifles are not allowed.
– Permits: An Alternative Methods Permit is required. It allows for the taking of antlered deer or antlerless deer where allowed.
This season is perfect for hunters who enjoy using primitive or specialized gear. The weather can be more challenging, but pressure is often lower.
Missouri Late Youth Season
Missouri places a strong emphasis on getting young people involved in hunting. The Late Youth Season provides a special opportunity.
– Typical Dates: Typically the first weekend after the New Year.
– Participants: Hunters 6 through 15 years of age. They must be accompanied by a qualified adult mentor.
– Equipment: Any legal method for the firearms season is allowed during this weekend.
– Permits: A Youth Deer Hunting Permit is required. The adult mentor does not need a permit unless they are also hunting.
This late-season hunt can be excellent, as deer are often focused on finding food sources during colder weather.
Antlerless Seasons and County-Specific Rules
This is one of the most critical parts of Missouri’s regulations. The state is divided into management units, and the availability of antlerless permits varies by county.
– Firearms Antlerless Portion: This is a separate season usually held in early December. You must have an Antlerless Deer Hunting Permit for the specific county you are hunting in. Not all counties are open during this season.
– Archery Antlerless Harvest: During the archery season, you can use your Archery Permit to harvest an antlerless deer only in counties that are open for antlerless harvest. The MDC provides a clear map each year.
– Urban Zones: Some counties have special managed hunts or extended seasons in designated urban areas. Always check for these unique opportunities.
Ignoring county-specific antlerless rules is a major cause of hunting violations. Always, always verify the regulations for the exact county where you plan to hunt.
How to Get Your Missouri Hunting Permits and Tags
Buying your permits is a straightforward process, but you need to do it before you hunt.
1. E-Permits: The easiest way is to buy them online from the Missouri Department of Conservation website. You can print them at home.
2. Vendor Locations: You can also purchase permits from hundreds of licensed vendors across the state, like sporting goods stores and many Walmart locations.
3. What You’ll Need: You’ll need your Missouri Conservation Number. If you’re a non-resident, you’ll need a non-resident permit, which are more expensive than resident permits.
4. Telecheck: This is Missouri’s mandatory harvest reporting system. You must Telecheck your deer by 10 PM on the day it is recovered. You can do this by phone or online. It’s a crucial tool for the MDC’s wildlife management.
Understanding Missouri’s Deer Zones and Management Units
Missouri isn’t managed as one big zone. The state uses a county-based system with specific antlerless regulations. The MDC classifies counties into different categories for antlerless harvest during the firearms season. Some may be open for the full season, others only for the antlerless portion, and some may be closed entirely. The annual “Fall Deer & Turkey” booklet, available free from MDC, has the map and list you need. Don’t rely on last year’s information, as rules can change.
Best Practices for a Successful Missouri Deer Hunt
Knowing the season dates is just the start. Here’s how to prepare for a good hunt.
– Scout Early: Get into the woods well before your season to look for signs like rubs, scrapes, trails, and feeding areas. Trail cameras can be very helpful.
– Focus on Food Sources: In early fall, look for acorns, persimmons, and agricultural edges. In late season, focus on standing crops like corn or soybeans, or winter greens.
– Play the Wind: Always set up your stand or blind with the prevailing wind in your face. Deer have an incredible sense of smell.
– Practice Shooting: Whether with a bow or firearm, practice from realistic positions and distances. Know your effective range and stick to it.
– Plan for Recovery: Have a plan for what to do after you take a shot. Wait a reasonable time, then carefully follow the blood trail. Have the right gear for tracking and dragging.
Essential Gear Checklist for Missouri Deer Seasons
Don’t get caught in the woods missing something important. Here’s a basic list.
– Clothing: Blaze orange is required during firearms seasons (at least 400 square inches, with headgear). For archery, it’s optional but recommended. Dress in layers for Missouri’s variable weather.
– Safety Harness: If you hunt from a tree stand, a full-body safety harness is non-negotiable. Use it every single time you climb.
– Licenses and Permits: Have them on your person, along with a form of photo ID.
– Means of Taking: Your bow, crossbow, or firearm, along with appropriate ammunition or arrows.
– Field Dressing Kit: Sharp knife, gloves, and game bags. A small rope or drag harness is also very useful.
– Navigation & Communication: A GPS or compass, and a fully charged cell phone (though service may be spotty).
FAQs About Deer Hunting in Missouri
What are the exact dates for deer season in Missouri this year?
The exact dates can vary slightly each year. The best source is the current year’s Missouri Department of Conservation “Fall Deer & Turkey Hunting Regulations” booklet, available on their website or at permit vendors.
How much is a non-resident deer hunting license in Missouri?
A Non-Resident Firearms Any-Deer Permit is quite costly, often over $200. Non-Resident Archery Permits are also available at a lower, but still significant, price. Always check the MDC website for the most current fees.
Can I hunt deer on public land in Missouri?
Yes, Missouri has extensive public lands available for hunting, including conservation areas, state forests, and national wildlife refuges. However, these areas can recieve a lot of pressure. Scouting and hunting on weekdays can improve your chances on public land.
What are the legal shooting hours for deer in Missouri?
Legal shooting hours are from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. It’s your responsibility to know these times for your specific location and date.
Do I have to wear blaze orange during archery season?
It is not required during the archery-only portions of the season, but it is strongly recommended, especially if you are hunting on public land where other seasons may be open concurrently.
What is the bag limit for deer in Missouri?
The bag limit depends on the permits you purchase. You can buy multiple permits for some seasons (like archery), but there are combined limits. For example, you may only take one antlered deer during all firearms seasons combined. The regulations booklet explains the combined season limits clearly.
Where do I check my deer in Missouri?
Missouri uses the Telecheck system. You must report your harvest by 10 PM on the day of recovery by calling the toll-free number or using the online system. You’ll get a confirmation number to write on your permit.
Getting your timing right starts with knowing when is deer hunting season in Missouri. By understanding the different seasons—archery, firearms, alternative methods, and youth—and pairing that with the county-specific antlerless rules, you’ll be set for a legal and rewarding hunt. Remember to prioritize safety, respect the land and the game, and contribute to Missouri’s great hunting tradition by following all regulations. Good luck out there.