If you’re planning your fall hunts, one of the first questions you need answered is when does Missouri deer hunting season start. The dates aren’t the same every year, and they vary by the type of weapon you plan to use. Getting this right is the first step to a successful and legal hunt in the Show-Me State.
This guide breaks down all the season dates, explains the different segments, and gives you the practical tips you need. We’ll cover everything from archery to firearms, including the popular alternative methods season. Let’s get you ready for opening day.
When Does Missouri Deer Hunting Season Start
Missouri’s deer hunting season isn’t a single event. It’s a series of segments that run from mid-September through mid-January. The exact start date for you depends on which season you’re participating in. Here’s the typical annual framework, but remember to always check the current year’s regulations from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) for final confirmation.
- Archery Deer Season: Usually starts around mid-September (often the 15th) and runs through mid-November. It then reopens after the November firearms season and continues into mid-January.
- Firearms Deer Season (November Portion): This is the most popular season. It typically begins on the second Saturday in November and runs for 11 days.
- Firearms Antlerless Portion: Usually runs for 3 days in early December.
- Firearms Alternative Methods Portion: This season, allowing specific methods like muzzleloaders and atl-atls, typically starts in late December.
- Youth-Only Seasons: There are special early weekends for youth hunters in October and November.
Understanding the Missouri Deer Season Structure
To really know when you can hunt, you need to understand the different parts of the season. Each has it’s own rules, permitted weapons, and sometimes even different bag limits.
Archery Season Dates and Details
Archery season offers the longest opportunity to hunt. It’s split into two parts.
- Early Archery (Part 1): Starts around September 15th. This is a great time to hunt while deer are in their summer patterns and before the pressure of other seasons. Weather can be warm, so focus on scent control.
- Break for Firearms: Archery season closes just before the November firearms season opens. You cannot hunt with archery tackle during the November firearms season unless you have the proper firearms permit and are using a firearm.
- Late Archery (Part 2): Reopens after the November firearms season ends and continues until around January 15th. This is a prime time for hunting pressured deer and seeking out remaining antlerless opportunities.
Firearms Seasons: November, Antlerless, and Alternative Methods
This is where most deer are harvested in Missouri. There are three distinct segments.
- November Firearms Season (11 days): The main event. Starts the second Saturday in November. All firearms methods are allowed (centerfire rifles, shotguns, muzzleloaders, handguns). This season has the highest hunter participation.
- Firearms Antlerless Season (3 days): Usually the first weekend in December. As the name implies, only antlerless deer may be taken. This is a critical management tool and a great chance to fill your freezer.
- Alternative Methods Season (10 days): Typically starts around December 26th. Permitted methods include muzzleloading rifles (single barrel, .40 caliber or larger), atl-atls, bows, and crossbows. Centerfire rifles are not allowed. It’s a challenging and rewarding late-season hunt.
Youth-Only Hunting Seasons
Missouri offers excellent opportunities for young hunters. These seasons are set before the main adult firearms seasons.
- Early Youth Portion: One weekend in late October (usually the last full weekend).
- Late Youth Portion: One weekend in late November (the weekend after the November firearms season).
- During these seasons, both the youth and their adult mentor may harvest one deer of either sex, provided the youth has the proper permit. The adult must follow all regulations as if they were hunting.
What You Need Before Season Starts
Knowing the date is just the beginning. Here’s your pre-season checklist to ensure your ready to go.
Licenses and Permits
You must have the correct permits before you hunt. You can buy them online from the MDC, at vendors, or at MDC offices.
- Hunting Permit: All hunters need a valid Missouri Small Game Hunting Permit (or a combination hunting and fishing permit).
- Deer Hunting Permit: You must purchase a specific Deer Hunting Permit for the season you plan to hunt (Archery, Firearms, Alternative Methods).
- Telecheck Confirmation: You are required to Telecheck (report) every deer you harvest by 10:00 p.m. on the day it is recovered. Have the Telecheck number (1-866-463-6401) saved in your phone and know your permit number.
Tagging and Reporting Your Deer
This is a legal requirement and a crucial part of wildlife management.
- Immediately after harvesting a deer, you must fill out the paper tag from your permit completely and attach it to the deer.
- Then, you must Telecheck the deer by the 10 p.m. deadline. You’ll need your permit number and some details about the harvest (county, method, sex of deer).
- After Telechecking, you will get a confirmation number. Write this number on your paper tag. The deer is now legal for transport and processing.
Scouting and Preparation Tips
Scouting is what separates hopeful hunters from successful ones. Don’t wait until the week before season.
Summer and Early Fall Scouting
Use the warmer months to your advantage.
- Look for food sources: soybean and corn fields, oak ridges for acorns, and natural browse.
- Find water sources, especially in drier years.
- Use trail cameras strategically to pattern deer movement without pressuring the area to much. Check them infrequently.
- Identify funnels, saddles, and travel corridors between bedding and feeding areas.
Pre-Season Gear Check
A gear failure can ruin your hunt. Test everything well in advance.
- Weapon Check: Sight in your rifle or crossbow. Practice with your bow. Fire your muzzleloader to ensure it’s clean and shooting straight.
- Clothing: Wash all your hunting clothes in scent-free detergent and store them in a sealed container. Don’t wear them around camp or to the gas station.
- Tree Stand Safety: Inspect every strap, step, and buckle on your stand and harness. Practice attaching your full-body safety harness from the ground up.
- Pack Your Bag: Have a daypack ready with essentials: water, snacks, a flashlight, extra gloves, a knife, drag rope, and a basic first-aid kit.
Hunting Strategies for Each Season Segment
Your tactics should change as the season progresses and deer behavior shifts.
Early Archery Season Tactics
Deer are in predictable summer patterns. Focus on food sources in the evening and trails leading to/from bedding in the morning. Scent control is paramount because of the warmer temperatures. Hunt the edges of crop fields or over active scrapes near food sources.
November Firearms Season Approach
The woods change dramatically. Pressure is high, and deer become nocturnal or move only at night. Your best bet is often to hunt thick cover, funnels, and escape routes away from other hunters. Rattling and grunting can be very effective during the peak of the rut, which often coincides with this season. Be patient and stay all day if you can.
Late Season (Archery & Alternative Methods) Tips
Deer are pressured, cold, and focused on finding food to survive the winter. They will key on the most reliable food source available, often winter wheat or standing corn. Hunt close to these areas, paying attention to wind direction. Deer movement may be limited to the warmest part of the day, so adjust your hunting times accordingly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced hunters can make errors. Here’s a few to watch out for.
- Not Checking Current Regulations: Dates, rules, and county-specific antlerless permits can change. Never assume last year’s info is correct.
- Poor Scent Management: Wearing your boots in the truck or forgetting to store clothes properly alerts every deer in the woods.
- Over-Scouting: Going into your best spot to much before season leaves to much human scent and pressures deer.
- Ignoring the Wind: Always, always set up with the wind in your face. A swirling wind will betray your position.
- Not Having a Recovery Plan: Do you have a flashlight, marking tape, and a plan for tracking a deer after dark? Make one before you need it.
Missouri Deer Hunting FAQ
Here are quick answers to some of the most common questions about deer season in Missouri.
Q: What is the first day of deer season in Missouri?
A: It depends on the season. Archery season usually starts first, around September 15th. The November firearms season starts the second Saturday in November.
Q: Can I hunt deer with a rifle in Missouri?
A: Yes, during the November firearms season and the Antlerless season, centerfire rifles of .22 caliber or larger with expanding-type bullets are legal. They are not allowed during the Alternative Methods season.
Q: What are the dates for youth deer season in Missouri?
A: There are two youth weekends: one in late October and one in late November. The exact dates are set annually by the MDC.
Q: How many deer can I take in Missouri?
A: The statewide limit is two antlered deer (bucks) during the combined archery and firearms seasons. The number of antlerless deer you can take depends on the county and the type of permit you have. You must check the current regulations for county-specific antlerless limits.
Q: Do I need to wear orange during archery season?
A: During the urban zones portion of archery season, yes. During the regular archery season, it is not required but is highly recommended for safety, especially on public land.
Q: When does deer season end in Missouri?
A> The last season to close is usually the late archery season, which ends around January 15th.
Q: Can I use a crossbow in Missouri?
A: Yes, crossbows are legal during the archery deer season and the firearms alternative methods season. They are not allowed during the November firearms season unless you have a qualifying disability permit.
Q: Where can I find the official Missouri deer hunting regulations?
A: The best source is the Missouri Department of Conservation website (mdc.mo.gov). You can download the current “Fall Deer & Turkey Hunting Regulations” booklet there or pick one up at any MDC office or license vendor.
Final Thoughts on Planning Your Hunt
Answering “when does missouri deer hunting season start” is your entry point. Success comes from the preparation that follows. Mark your calender for the correct season, get your permits early, scout diligently, and practice with your weapon. Respect the game, follow the regulations, and prioritize safety above all else. Missouri offers a long and varied deer season with opportunities for every type of hunter. With good planning and adaptable tactics, you can make the most of it and create a memorable season in the field.