Mississippi’s hunting seasons offer abundant opportunities for sportsmen and women to pursue a variety of game species. The state’s diverse landscapes provide habitats for white-tailed deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, and small game. The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks carefully manages these seasons to ensure sustainable wildlife populations and quality hunting experiences.

Hunters in Mississippi must obtain the appropriate licenses and permits before heading afield. These regulations help support wildlife conservation programs and habitat management efforts across the state. The department sets specific dates, bag limits, and methods of take for each species to maintain healthy wildlife populations.

The state’s hunting calendar typically includes seasons for archery, primitive weapons, and modern firearms. Youth hunters often enjoy special early season opportunities. Hunters should familiarize themselves with the legal buck requirements, antler restrictions, and zone-specific regulations before planning their trips. By following these guidelines, sportsmen contribute to the long-term health of Mississippi’s wildlife resources.

Mississippi Hunting Regulations

Mississippi maintains strict regulations to ensure sustainable hunting practices and wildlife conservation. These rules cover licensing, equipment, seasons, and safety measures for hunters across the state.

Hunting Licenses and Permits

All hunters aged 16-64 must obtain a valid Mississippi hunting license, except when hunting on their own land. Residents 65 and older can hunt without a license but must carry proof of age. Non-residents need specific permits for certain game and public lands. The state offers various license types, including:

• Annual All Game Hunting and Fishing License
• Sportsman’s License
• 3-Day All Game Hunting License
• Apprentice Hunting License

Special permits are required for hunting deer with primitive weapons, alligators, and participating in the Light Goose Conservation Order.

Legal Weapons and Equipment

Mississippi allows different weapons for specific game and seasons:

• Firearms: Centerfire rifles, shotguns, and handguns during general seasons
• Archery: Bows and crossbows for designated archery seasons
• Primitive Weapons: Muzzleloaders and certain archery equipment during special seasons

Hunters must adhere to caliber restrictions and magazine capacity limits. The use of artificial lights, baiting, and electronic calls is regulated and often prohibited.

Season Dates and Bag Limits

Hunting seasons in Mississippi vary by species and region. Key seasons include:

• Deer: October to January (varies by zone and weapon)
• Turkey: March to May
• Waterfowl: Late November to late January

Bag limits are strictly enforced:

• Deer: Annual limit of 3 antlerless deer and 3 antlered bucks
• Turkey: 1 adult gobbler per day, 3 per spring season
• Ducks: 6 per day, with species-specific limits

Hunters must check current regulations for exact dates and limits, as they may change annually.

Wildlife Management and Conservation

The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) manages 53 Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) across the state. These areas often have special regulations:

• Specific season dates
• Limited entry hunts
• Weapon restrictions

MDWFP focuses on habitat improvement and population monitoring to ensure sustainable wildlife populations. Hunters play a crucial role in conservation by following regulations and participating in harvest reporting programs.

Hunter Education and Safety Courses

Mississippi requires all hunters born on or after January 1, 1972, to complete a Hunter Education Course. The course covers:

• Firearm safety
• Wildlife conservation
• Hunting ethics and responsibilities
• Survival skills

Courses are available online and in-person. Upon completion, hunters receive a certification card required to purchase a hunting license. The state also offers a one-time Apprentice Hunting License for those who haven’t completed the course, allowing them to hunt under supervision.

Hunting Seasons by Species

Mississippi offers diverse hunting opportunities throughout the year. Specific seasons are set for various game animals to manage populations and provide sustainable hunting experiences.

White-Tailed Deer Hunting

White-tailed deer seasons in Mississippi vary by region and hunting method. The state is divided into different Deer Management Units, each with its own schedule.

Archery season typically runs from October 1 to November 22 in most units. Youth hunters get special early opportunities, with a dedicated season from November 9 to November 22.

Gun season for deer generally starts in late November and extends into January. Exact dates differ between the Delta, North Central, and Hills units.

Muzzleloader seasons offer additional hunting periods, usually in December and early January. Hunters should check specific unit regulations for accurate dates and bag limits.

Wild Turkey Hunting

Turkey hunting in Mississippi is a spring tradition. The regular season typically starts in mid-March and runs through early May.

Youth hunters get a head start with a special weekend before the regular season opens. This gives young hunters a chance to bag a turkey before the general public takes to the woods.

Non-resident hunters face some restrictions. They cannot hunt public lands before April 1 unless drawn for a specific permit or Wildlife Management Area hunt.

Bag limits and specific season dates may change annually. Hunters should always consult the current year’s regulations for the most up-to-date information.

Small Game and Furbearer Seasons

Mississippi offers hunting opportunities for various small game species. Squirrel season is one of the longest, often running from October through February.

Rabbit hunting typically aligns with squirrel season dates. This provides ample chances for hunters to pursue these popular small game animals.

Raccoon hunting season usually extends from July through September, with no bag limit during this period. Additional raccoon hunting opportunities may be available in conjunction with other seasons.

Furbearer trapping seasons generally run from November through February. Species like bobcat, coyote, and fox can be taken during this time, subject to specific regulations.

Migratory Bird Seasons

Dove hunting kicks off the fall hunting season in Mississippi. The season is typically split into three segments, starting in September and running intermittently through January.

Duck hunting seasons vary by species. The general duck season usually runs from late November through January, with a brief pause in December.

Scaup have special regulations. In 2024, the daily bag limit is 1 scaup from November 28 to December 1 and December 7 to 17. It increases to 2 scaup from December 18, 2024, to January 31, 2025.

Merganser and coot seasons typically align with the duck season. Hunters can take 5 mergansers daily (only 2 hooded) and 15 coots.

Crow hunting is permitted during specified periods from November through March. This long season provides ample opportunities for hunters interested in pursuing this often-overlooked species.

Special Hunting Opportunities

Mississippi offers unique hunting experiences for various groups and seasons. These opportunities allow hunters to pursue game using different methods and in diverse locations across the state.

Youth and Apprentice Hunting

Youth hunters in Mississippi enjoy special privileges. Those 15 years and younger can harvest up to three antlered bucks on private land and authorized state and federal lands. A youth squirrel season is available on private lands and designated public areas, including U.S. Forest Service National Forest lands. This gives young hunters a chance to learn and practice their skills.

The state also provides youth waterfowl days. For the 2024-2025 season, these are set for February 8-9, 2025. These dedicated days allow young hunters to gain experience in waterfowl hunting without competition from adult hunters.

Primitive Weapons Season

Primitive weapons seasons offer hunters a chance to use traditional hunting methods. These seasons typically occur before the regular firearm seasons, giving hunters additional opportunities to harvest deer.

Hunters can use muzzleloaders and other approved primitive weapons during these periods. The exact dates vary by zone and year, so hunters should consult the current regulations for specific information.

Private Land Hunting

Private land hunting in Mississippi provides excellent opportunities for deer and other game. Hunters must obtain landowner permission before hunting on private property.

For deer hunting, the archery season on private lands runs from October 1 to November 22, 2024. During this time, hunters can take either sex. Special archery seasons may also be available, such as the September velvet season for antlered bucks.

Private land hunters often enjoy more flexible regulations and longer seasons compared to public land hunting.

Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)

Wildlife Management Areas offer public hunting opportunities across Mississippi. Each WMA has specific regulations and may offer different hunting seasons than those on private lands.

Some WMAs require special permits or participate in draw hunts for certain game or seasons. These draw hunts help manage hunter numbers and ensure fair access to prime hunting areas.

Hunters should carefully review the regulations for each WMA they plan to visit. This includes checking for any mandatory reporting requirements or CWD sampling protocols that may be in place.

Ethical Hunting and Wildlife Management

Responsible hunting practices and conservation efforts are crucial for maintaining healthy wildlife populations in Mississippi. These approaches help preserve ecosystems and ensure sustainable hunting for future generations.

Fair Chase and Ethics

Ethical hunting in Mississippi revolves around the principle of fair chase. This concept ensures that animals have a reasonable chance to evade hunters. Hunters are expected to follow all regulations and use appropriate equipment for their targeted game.

Mississippi’s Deer Management Units implement specific antler restrictions to promote balanced deer populations. These rules vary by region, with the Southeast Unit having its own set of guidelines.

Hunters must obtain proper licenses and adhere to bag limits. These measures prevent overharvesting and maintain sustainable wildlife numbers.

Chronic Wasting Disease Management

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) poses a significant threat to deer populations in Mississippi. The state has implemented strict monitoring and management programs to control its spread.

Hunters play a crucial role in CWD management by participating in testing programs. They are encouraged to submit samples from harvested deer for analysis.

Mississippi has established CWD management zones with specific regulations. These include restrictions on deer carcass transportation and disposal to minimize disease transmission.

Habitat Preservation

Conservation of wildlife habitats is essential for maintaining healthy animal populations. Mississippi’s Wildlife Programs focus on preserving and improving natural ecosystems.

The state manages numerous Wildlife Management Areas that provide critical habitats for various species. These areas are carefully maintained to support diverse wildlife populations.

Hunters contribute to habitat preservation through license fees and excise taxes on hunting equipment. These funds support conservation efforts and habitat restoration projects across the state.

Land management practices, such as controlled burns and invasive species removal, help maintain optimal conditions for wildlife. These efforts ensure that Mississippi’s hunting traditions can continue sustainably for years to come.

Licensing and Regulations

Mississippi enforces specific licensing requirements and regulations to manage hunting activities and protect wildlife populations. These rules cover licensing for residents and non-residents, legal shooting hours, and restrictions on certain species.

Resident and Non-Resident Licensing

Mississippi requires all hunters to obtain a valid hunting license. Residents aged 16-64 must purchase a state hunting license. Non-resident hunters need a special license, which costs more than resident licenses. Fees vary based on the type and duration of the license.

Licenses can be purchased online, at MDWFP offices, or from authorized vendors. Some specific game hunts may require additional permits or tags.

Youth under 16 and seniors 65 and older can hunt with a free license, but must still follow all regulations.

Legal Shooting Hours and Restrictions

Legal shooting hours in Mississippi typically begin 30 minutes before sunrise and end 30 minutes after sunset. These times may vary for specific game species or during special seasons.

Hunters must use legal weapons appropriate for the game being hunted. Rifles, shotguns, and archery equipment are generally allowed, but restrictions apply to certain calibers and ammunition types.

Baiting is prohibited on public lands but allowed on private property with landowner permission. Hunting from vehicles or boats under power is illegal.

Protected and Prohibited Species

Mississippi law protects certain wildlife species from hunting. These include endangered species, non-game birds, and some mammals.

It is illegal to hunt or possess:

• Bald eagles
• Black bears
• Florida panthers
• Gopher tortoises

Selling animals native to Mississippi is generally prohibited without proper permits. This includes game animals, furbearers, and protected species.

Hunters must correctly identify their target before shooting to avoid taking protected species. Violations can result in fines and loss of hunting privileges.

Additional Hunting Resources

Mississippi offers diverse hunting opportunities on both private and public lands. Hunters can also enjoy fishing in the state’s numerous freshwater and saltwater locations. Proper permissions, regulations, and accessibility are key factors to consider.

Landowner Permissions and Responsibilities

Obtaining landowner permission is crucial for hunting on private property in Mississippi. Hunters must secure written or verbal consent before entering private lands. Landowners have the right to restrict access and set rules for their property. They may also participate in programs like the Deer Management Assistance Program to enhance wildlife habitats.

Hunters should respect property boundaries and follow all guidelines set by landowners. It’s advisable to carry written permission while hunting. Landowners are protected from liability for non-paying recreational users under Mississippi law, encouraging them to allow hunting on their property.

Public Lands Accessibility

Mississippi offers numerous public hunting areas, including Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), national forests, and state parks. These lands provide diverse hunting opportunities for various game species. Hunters must familiarize themselves with specific regulations for each area.

Many public lands require special permits or have draw systems for certain hunts. Some areas may have restrictions on weapon types or hunting methods. Accessibility varies, with some locations offering developed roads and others requiring more challenging access.

Hunters should check the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks website for up-to-date information on public land access, seasons, and regulations.

Fishing Regulations and Opportunities

Mississippi’s abundant waterways provide excellent fishing opportunities. Freshwater fishing is available in lakes, rivers, and streams throughout the state. Popular species include bass, crappie, and catfish. Anglers must possess a valid fishing license and adhere to size and creel limits for each species.

Saltwater fishing along the Gulf Coast offers exciting prospects for species like redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. Special regulations apply to saltwater fishing, including size limits and seasonal closures for certain species.

The state operates public fishing lakes that offer well-managed environments for anglers. These lakes often have amenities like boat ramps and fishing piers. Fishing regulations and opportunities may change annually, so anglers should consult the current fishing guidebook for accurate information.