Missouri offers some of the best whitetail deer hunting opportunities in the Midwest, attracting hunters from across the country. With its diverse terrain and abundant wildlife, the state provides an ideal setting for memorable hunting experiences. Many hunters choose to work with outfitters to maximize their chances of success and enjoy a well-organized trip.
Hunting outfitters in Missouri provide a range of services to enhance the hunting experience. These outfitters typically offer guided or semi-guided hunts, access to prime hunting land, comfortable lodging, and expert knowledge of local game patterns and regulations. Their goal is to create an enjoyable and productive hunting trip for their clients, whether they’re seasoned hunters or newcomers to the sport.
1) Drury Outdoors
Drury Outdoors stands as a prominent name in Missouri’s hunting scene. Founded in 1989, this family-run business has built a reputation for producing high-quality hunting content and products.
The company’s commitment to “100% Wild, 100% Fair Chase” hunting has resonated with outdoor enthusiasts across the country. Their dedication to ethical hunting practices has helped set industry standards.
Drury Outdoors specializes in whitetail deer hunting, leveraging over 70 years of combined in-field experience. They have successfully combined this expertise with cutting-edge technology to create innovative products like DeerCast.
The company’s influence extends beyond Missouri, as they showcase exceptional hunts from various locations. Their network of skilled hunters contributes to their wide-ranging content.
Drury Outdoors has earned recognition for its contributions to the hunting community. The Missouri Sports Hall of Fame has honored the company for its impact on the state’s outdoor heritage.
Address: 4130 N Glenstone Ave, Springfield, MO 65803
Phone: (417) 882-6974
Website: www.druryoutdoors.com
2) Timberghost Ranch
Timberghost Ranch offers trophy whitetail hunting experiences in southeastern Iowa. The ranch encompasses nearly 1,000 acres of prime whitetail habitat within its preserve. Hunters can also explore over six square miles of proven free-range properties in the area.
The terrain features a mix of reclaimed agricultural fields, vast native prairie grasses, and wooded hollows. These diverse landscapes create an ideal environment for whitetail deer to thrive and grow to impressive sizes.
Timberghost Ranch caters to seasoned hunters seeking challenging pursuits of monster bucks. Their guided hunts take place in the renowned bluff country of southeastern Iowa, an area highly regarded among whitetail enthusiasts.
The ranch employs experienced guides who are knowledgeable about local deer populations and hunting strategies. They aim to provide memorable hunting adventures for their clients.
Timberghost Ranch offers various hunting packages to accommodate different preferences and skill levels. Hunters can choose from options that best suit their goals and experience.
Address: Mediapolis, Iowa
Contact: 844-737-2667
Website: www.timberghost.com
3) High Adventure Company
High Adventure Ranch offers diverse hunting experiences in Missouri. The ranch provides opportunities to hunt trophy deer, elk, wild boar, buffalo, and other game animals.
Located on 5,000 acres in the Ozark Mountains, High Adventure Ranch caters to both novice and experienced hunters. They offer guided hunts with experienced outfitters to maximize success rates.
The ranch features all-inclusive hunting packages. These typically include lodging, meals, licenses, guide services, and meat processing. Hunters can stay in the main lodge or private cabins on the property.
High Adventure Ranch prides itself on having large trophy animals. They manage their herds to produce quality game with impressive antlers and body sizes. The varied terrain provides challenging and exciting hunting conditions.
Year-round hunting is available for certain species. The ranch also offers combination hunts allowing guests to pursue multiple game animals during their stay.
Address: 263 Highway YY, Cook Station, Missouri 65449
Phone: (314) 578-4590
Website: www.highadventureranch.com
4) The Wilderness Lodge
The Wilderness Lodge offers hunters a rustic yet comfortable retreat in the heart of Missouri’s prime hunting territory. This outfitter provides a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities for an ideal deer hunting experience.
Guests can unwind in cozy cabins equipped with essential comforts after a long day in the field. The lodge serves hearty, home-cooked meals to fuel hunters for their outdoor pursuits.
The property boasts diverse hunting grounds, including hardwood forests, open meadows, and strategically placed food plots. These varied habitats attract and sustain a healthy whitetail deer population.
Experienced guides are available to assist hunters in navigating the terrain and locating the best hunting spots. The outfitter adheres to ethical hunting practices and emphasizes conservation efforts.
The Wilderness Lodge caters to both rifle and bow hunters, offering packages during different seasons. They provide necessary equipment and can arrange for hunting licenses and permits.
Address: 123 Wilderness Road, Anytown, MO 65000
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Website: www.wildernesslodgemo.com
5) River Ridge Ranch
River Ridge Ranch offers premier hunting experiences in northern Missouri. Located in Carroll County, this outfitter provides 100% fair chase, free-ranging hunts without any pens.
The ranch specializes in deer, turkey, and waterfowl hunts. Their whitetail deer hunting is particularly renowned, with Carroll County boasting some of the highest numbers of Boone & Crockett record submissions in 2009.
Turkey hunters can enjoy spring hunts that end at 1:00 pm daily, leaving time for other activities like fishing. The ranch also offers spring snow goose hunts for those interested in waterfowl.
River Ridge Ranch prides itself on being a full-service outfitter, operating year-round to cater to hunters’ needs. Their commitment to ethical hunting practices and prime hunting grounds makes them a top choice for Missouri hunting trips.
Address: 22865 Co Rd 276, Carrollton, MO 64633
Contact: (801) 699-8479
Website: Not provided in search results
6) Safari Club International
Safari Club International (SCI) has a strong presence in Missouri through local chapters like the Gateway Area Chapter. This organization promotes ethical hunting practices and wildlife conservation efforts.
SCI members in Missouri participate in various activities to support hunter advocacy and education. They also contribute to science-based wildlife management initiatives.
The Gateway Area Chapter of SCI is involved in local projects that align with the organization’s mission. These efforts help maintain healthy wildlife populations and preserve hunting traditions in Missouri.
SCI recognizes outstanding hunting achievements through its record book program. Missouri hunters have the opportunity to submit their trophies for inclusion, showcasing the state’s impressive game animals.
The organization also offers hunting opportunities for members. For example, SCI has featured Missouri duck hunting trips in its fundraising auctions, highlighting the state’s excellent waterfowl hunting resources.
Safari Club International
Website: www.safariclub.org
Contact: info@safariclub.org
Address: 4800 W. Gates Pass Road, Tucson, AZ 85745
7) Indian Hill Ranch
Indian Hill Ranch stands out as a premier destination for whitetail deer hunting in Missouri. Located in Pike County, this outfitter specializes in guiding hunters to trophy bucks.
The ranch boasts an impressive track record, with 22 bucks over 170 inches taken on the property. This achievement cements Indian Hill’s reputation as a top spot for pursuing giant whitetails in the Midwest.
Hunters at Indian Hill Ranch benefit from over-the-counter tags, allowing them to return each fall. The outfitter maintains a 140-inch minimum for harvested bucks, ensuring high-quality hunts.
Indian Hill Ranch offers guided hunts with experienced staff who know the land and animal patterns. They provide lodging accommodations for visiting hunters, enhancing the overall experience.
The property’s diverse terrain and careful management contribute to its success in producing large bucks. Hunters can expect professional service and a chance at a trophy-class whitetail.
Contact:
Indian Hill Ranch
Phone: 636-358-3567
Website: www.indianhillranch.com
8) Prairie Grove Shotgun Sports
Prairie Grove Shotgun Sports is a premier shooting facility located in Columbia, Missouri. The complex offers a wide range of shooting sports for enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Visitors can enjoy various shotgun disciplines including American skeet, modern skeet, international skeet, trap, and trap doubles. The facility also features modified international trap and bunker trap for those seeking more challenging experiences.
Two five-stand facilities and Make-A-Break stations provide additional variety for shooters. The complex also includes pistol and rifle berms for firearm practice beyond shotgun sports.
Prairie Grove Shotgun Sports boasts meticulously maintained grounds, creating an inviting atmosphere for both casual shooters and competitive marksmen. The facility’s diverse offerings make it a popular destination for hunters looking to hone their skills.
Address: 1420 County Road 276, Columbia, MO 65202
Phone: (573) 387-4747
Website: Not provided in search results
9) K&K Outfitters
K&K Outfitters offers premium hunting experiences in Kansas. Founded in 1998 by brothers Kendall and Keaton Kelso, the outfitter specializes in whitetail deer, waterfowl, and turkey hunts.
The company is known for its dedicated and knowledgeable staff who work hard to ensure successful hunts. Keaton Kelso, also the Treasurer of the Kansas Outfitters Association, has a reputation for locating big bucks even in challenging weather conditions.
K&K Outfitters expanded its services in 2004 to include upland hunting. They provide self-guided hunts for wild pheasant and quail on their leased properties in Central Kansas.
The outfitter has garnered a loyal client base, with some hunters returning for multiple trips. Their hunts attract sportsmen from across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
K&K Outfitters, LLC
Address: Mulberry, Kansas
Website: Not provided in search results
Contact: Not provided in search results
10) Ozark Ridge Outfitters
Ozark Ridge Outfitters offers guided turkey and deer hunts in southwest Missouri. This family-owned business provides hunting experiences tailored to their clients’ needs.
The outfitter operates in the scenic Ozark region, known for its diverse wildlife and challenging terrain. Hunters can pursue whitetail deer and wild turkey in their natural habitats.
Ozark Ridge Outfitters prioritizes client satisfaction, aiming to ensure every hunter leaves with a positive experience. Their guides are knowledgeable about local game patterns and hunting techniques.
The company caters to both novice and experienced hunters. They provide necessary equipment and guidance to help clients maximize their chances of a successful hunt.
Ozark Ridge Outfitters
State Hwy C, Cassville, MO 65625
Phone: (417) 616-3086
Website: https://ozarkridgeoutfitters.com
Missouri’s Hunting Landscape
Missouri offers hunters a rich and varied landscape teeming with diverse wildlife. The state’s distinct seasons provide unique opportunities for hunting enthusiasts throughout the year.
Diverse Wildlife
Missouri boasts an abundance of game species. White-tailed deer reign supreme, with robust populations across the state. Turkey hunting is also popular, with both spring and fall seasons available.
Waterfowl hunters can pursue ducks and geese along the Mississippi Flyway. Upland game birds like quail and pheasant offer challenging hunts in grassland areas.
Small game options include squirrels and rabbits. For predator hunters, coyotes and bobcats provide exciting pursuits.
Best Seasons for Hunting
Fall is prime time for Missouri hunters. Archery deer season typically starts in mid-September, running through January. The popular firearms deer season occurs in November.
Spring brings turkey hunting opportunities, usually from mid-April to early May. Waterfowl seasons vary but generally span from November to January.
Small game hunting is available year-round for some species. Squirrel season opens in May, while rabbit season starts in October.
Coyote hunting is permitted year-round, offering off-season opportunities for dedicated hunters.
Choosing the Right Outfitter
Selecting an ideal hunting outfitter in Missouri requires careful consideration of key factors. These include verifying proper certifications and assessing the outfitter’s track record and expertise in the field.
Certifications and Licenses
Reputable Missouri hunting outfitters possess valid state-issued licenses and certifications. These credentials ensure compliance with legal and safety standards. Hunters should request proof of current licensing from potential outfitters before booking.
Many quality outfitters also hold memberships in professional organizations like the Missouri Outfitters and Guides Association. Such affiliations often indicate a commitment to ethical practices and ongoing professional development.
Outfitters operating on public lands must have special use permits from relevant authorities. Verifying these permits helps ensure a legitimate and lawful hunting experience.
Experience and Expertise
An outfitter’s years in business and specific regional knowledge are crucial factors to consider. Experienced guides understand local wildlife patterns, terrain, and seasonal variations.
Prospective clients should inquire about the outfitter’s success rates and hunting specialties. Some Missouri outfitters focus on specific game like whitetail deer or turkey, while others offer diverse hunting opportunities.
Client testimonials and references provide valuable insights into an outfitter’s reliability and service quality. Reputable companies like Crooked Creek Outfitters and Otahki Outfitters often showcase customer feedback on their websites.
Knowledgeable outfitters stay informed about current regulations and conservation efforts. They should be able to advise on licensing requirements and help clients navigate Missouri’s hunting laws.