Missouri offers diverse hunting opportunities throughout the year for various game species. From white-tailed deer to wild turkey, waterfowl, and small game, hunters can pursue their passions across the state’s forests, fields, and wetlands. The Missouri Department of Conservation sets specific season dates, bag limits, and regulations to ensure sustainable wildlife populations and fair hunting practices.

Hunters must be aware of the different seasons for each species, as well as any special restrictions or requirements. For example, deer hunting seasons vary by method, with separate periods for archery, firearms, and muzzleloader hunting. Turkey hunters have spring and fall seasons to choose from, each with its own set of rules.

Understanding Missouri’s hunting seasons is crucial for planning trips, obtaining the correct permits, and complying with state laws. Hunters should consult the official Missouri Wildlife Code and Department of Conservation resources for the most up-to-date and accurate information on season dates, hunting zones, and regulations.

General Regulations for Hunting in Missouri

Missouri has established comprehensive regulations to ensure safe, ethical, and sustainable hunting practices. These rules cover permitted methods, licensing requirements, education, timing restrictions, and prohibited practices.

Legal Hunting Methods

Hunters in Missouri may use firearms, bows, atlatls, and slingshots for hunting, depending on the season and species. Specific rules apply to each method. Firearms must be non-automatic, with restrictions during deer firearms season. Archery equipment includes long, recurve, and compound bows, as well as crossbows.

Hunters should check species-specific regulations for allowed methods. Some seasons may restrict certain weapons or require additional equipment like non-toxic shot for waterfowl hunting.

Permit Requirements

Valid hunting permits are mandatory for all hunters in Missouri. Permit types vary based on species, season, and hunter age. Residents and non-residents have different permit options and fees.

Deer and turkey hunters need species-specific tags. Small game hunters require a small game hunting permit. Migratory bird hunters must obtain both state and federal permits.

Landowners may qualify for special permit provisions on their property. All permits must be carried while hunting and presented upon request to conservation agents.

Hunter Education

Missouri requires hunter education certification for most hunters born on or after January 1, 1967. The course covers firearm safety, wildlife conservation, hunting ethics, and regulations. Completion is mandatory before purchasing hunting permits, with some exceptions for youth hunters and adults born before the cutoff date.

Courses are available online or in-person. Upon completion, hunters receive a card that must be carried while hunting. The certification is recognized in all 50 states and several Canadian provinces.

Hunting Hours and Time Restrictions

Hunting hours in Missouri typically run from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Specific times may vary by species and season. Night hunting is generally prohibited, with some exceptions for certain species like raccoons or coyotes.

Hunters should consult official sunrise and sunset tables or use MDC’s MO Hunting app for accurate times. It’s crucial to cease hunting activities promptly at the designated end time to avoid violations.

Some seasons have additional time restrictions. For example, the 2024 bear hunting season runs from October 21 to October 30, with specific daily hours.

Ethical Practices and Prohibited Methods

Ethical hunting practices are essential for conservation and sportsmanship. Missouri prohibits several methods to ensure fair chase and animal welfare. These include:

• Using artificial lights, except for specific night hunting situations
• Hunting from a moving vehicle or aircraft
• Using live decoys for migratory bird hunting
• Baiting, except in designated areas during certain seasons
• Trespassing on private property without permission

Hunters must make reasonable efforts to retrieve downed game and avoid wanton waste. It’s illegal to abandon usable portions of harvested animals.

Respect for landowners, other hunters, and non-hunters is crucial. Hunters should always prioritize safety, follow regulations, and practice responsible hunting techniques.

Deer Hunting Seasons

Missouri offers diverse deer hunting opportunities throughout the fall and winter. Hunters can pursue whitetails using archery or firearms during designated seasons, with special provisions for antlerless deer and youth hunters.

Archery Deer Season

Archery season in Missouri runs from September 15, 2024, to November 15, 2024, and resumes from November 27, 2024, to January 15, 2025. Hunters with an Archer’s Permit may take two deer of either sex. Only one antlered deer can be harvested before the November firearms season.

Antler-point restrictions apply in certain counties. Archers can purchase multiple antlerless deer hunting permits in most counties, except Dunklin, Mississippi, New Madrid, and Pemiscot.

Firearms Deer Seasons

The firearms deer season consists of multiple portions:

• November Portion: November 16-26, 2024
• CWD Portion: November 27 – December 1, 2024
• Late Youth Portion: November 29 – December 1, 2024
• Antlerless Portion: December 7-15, 2024
• Alternative Methods Portion: December 28, 2024 – January 7, 2025

Hunters may take only one antlered deer during the entire firearms season across all portions combined. Legal hunting hours are from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset.

Antlerless Deer Hunting

Antlerless deer hunting helps manage populations and provides additional hunting opportunities. The antlerless portion runs from December 7-15, 2024. Hunters can purchase antlerless deer hunting permits for use during this time.

Regulations vary by county. Some areas may have restrictions or increased bag limits based on local deer populations. Hunters should check specific county regulations before purchasing permits.

CWD Management

The Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Portion takes place from November 27 to December 1, 2024. This season targets areas where CWD has been detected in deer populations.

Special regulations may apply in CWD management zones. Hunters are encouraged to have their harvested deer tested for CWD and follow proper carcass disposal guidelines to help prevent the spread of the disease.

Youth Hunting Opportunities

Missouri offers dedicated youth hunting portions to introduce young hunters to the sport:

• Early Youth Portion: November 2-3, 2024
• Late Youth Portion: November 29 – December 1, 2024

Youth hunters ages 6-15 can participate when accompanied by a properly licensed adult. These seasons provide a chance for young hunters to learn safe hunting practices and gain experience in the field.

Turkey Hunting

Missouri offers turkey hunting opportunities in both spring and fall seasons. Hunters can pursue wild turkeys using firearms or archery equipment, with specific regulations and limits in place.

Spring Turkey Season

Spring turkey season in Missouri typically runs from mid-April to early May. Youth hunters ages 6-15 get a special early weekend season, usually held in early April. The regular spring season allows hunters to harvest one male turkey or turkey with a visible beard per day, with a two-bird season limit.

Hunting hours are from one-half hour before sunrise to sunset. Hunters must possess a valid spring turkey hunting permit and a hunter education certificate if born after January 1, 1967. Archery hunters can use their archer’s hunting permit during the spring season.

Fall Turkey Season

Fall turkey hunting in Missouri occurs from October 1 to October 31. Hunters can take two turkeys of either sex during this period, with both birds allowed to be harvested on the same day. The combined limit for archery and firearms portions is two turkeys.

Some counties in southeastern Missouri do not allow fall firearms turkey hunting. These include Dunklin, McDonald, Mississippi, New Madrid, Newton, Pemiscot, and Scott counties. Hunters should check local regulations before planning their hunt.

Baiting is prohibited for turkey hunting in Missouri. An area is considered baited for 10 days after complete removal of any bait. Hunters can face penalties for taking or attempting to take turkeys using bait.

Small Game and Furbearer Hunting

Missouri offers diverse hunting opportunities for small game and furbearers. Hunters can pursue a variety of species with specific seasons and regulations.

Season Dates and Bag Limits

Small game hunting seasons in Missouri vary by species. Squirrel season runs from May 25, 2024, to February 15, 2025, with a daily limit of 10. Rabbit season extends from October 1, 2024, to February 15, 2025, with a daily limit of 6.

Pheasant hunting is allowed from November 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025. The daily limit for pheasants is 2 male birds.

Bullfrog and green frog season starts at sunset on June 30, 2024, and ends on October 31, 2024. Hunters may take up to 8 frogs daily.

Common snipe can be hunted from September 1, 2024, to December 16, 2024, with a daily bag limit of 8.

Furbearer Species

Missouri’s furbearer hunting and trapping seasons typically run from November to February. Key species include coyotes, beaver, bobcat, and badger.

Coyote hunting is permitted year-round, with an extended period from February 1 to March 31, 2025, allowing additional hunting methods.

Bobcat season runs from November 15, 2024, to February 28, 2025. Trappers must report all bobcats taken within 24 hours.

Beaver trapping is allowed from November 15, 2024, to March 31, 2025. There are no bag limits for beaver.

Resident hunters need a Small Game Hunting Permit, while non-residents require a Furbearer Hunting and Trapping Permit for these activities.

Migratory Bird Hunting

Missouri offers diverse opportunities for migratory bird hunting. Hunters must obtain the necessary permits and follow specific regulations for different species.

Waterfowl

Waterfowl hunting in Missouri includes ducks, geese, and coots. The season typically runs from late October to late January, with specific dates varying by zone. Hunters must possess a valid Missouri Small Game Hunting Permit, Missouri Migratory Bird Hunting Permit, and Federal Duck Stamp.

Daily limits vary by species. For ducks, the limit is generally 6 birds per day, with restrictions on certain species. The possession limit is typically three times the daily bag limit.

Nontoxic shot is required for waterfowl hunting on all public and private land. Hunters should consult the current regulations for specific zone boundaries and any special restrictions.

Other Migratory Game Birds

Missouri also offers hunting seasons for other migratory game birds, including mourning doves, Eurasian collared doves, snipe, woodcock, and rails. The dove season usually opens on September 1, with a daily limit of 15 birds.

Woodcock and snipe seasons generally run from mid-October to late November. Rail hunting season typically spans September and October. Youth hunters aged 15 or younger do not need a migratory bird hunting permit.

Hunters must be aware of specific bag limits and possession limits for each species. These limits are set to ensure sustainable populations and may change annually based on wildlife management data.

Alternative Hunting Seasons

Missouri offers specialized hunting opportunities beyond traditional firearms and archery seasons. These alternative methods allow hunters to pursue deer using different equipment and techniques.

Alternative Methods Season

The Alternative Methods season for deer hunting in Missouri runs from December 28, 2024, to January 7, 2025. This season permits the use of muzzleloaders, crossbows, and atlatls. Hunting hours extend from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset.

Muzzleloaders must be .40 caliber or larger, while crossbows have no specific restrictions. Hunters can take two deer of either sex during this period. Only one antlered deer may be harvested.

Hunters must wear hunter orange and possess the appropriate permits. The Alternative Methods season provides an excellent opportunity to extend hunting activities after the main firearms season closes.

CWD testing requirements may apply in certain counties. Hunters should check local regulations for specific area restrictions and additional guidelines.

Specialty Hunting Opportunities

Missouri offers unique hunting experiences beyond traditional game. Elk and black bear hunts provide challenging pursuits for skilled hunters in specific areas of the state.

Elk Hunting

Elk hunting in Missouri is a relatively new opportunity. The Missouri Department of Conservation reintroduced elk in 2011. Hunting seasons are limited and highly regulated.

Elk hunts take place in a designated zone in southern Missouri. This area includes parts of Carter, Reynolds, and Shannon counties.

The elk season typically occurs in October and December. Permits are awarded through a lottery system due to the limited elk population. Hunters must complete a mandatory orientation before participating.

Successful applicants can use firearms or archery equipment during designated seasons. The hunt focuses on maintaining a sustainable elk population while providing a unique outdoor experience.

Black Bear Hunting

Black bear hunting is another specialty opportunity in Missouri. The state implemented its first black bear season in 2021. This hunt takes place in designated Black Bear Management Zones.

The season usually runs for 10 days in October. Hunters must apply for permits through a lottery system. Only Missouri residents are eligible.

Black bear hunting is restricted to specific areas in southern Missouri. These zones are designed to manage the bear population effectively.

Hunters must use methods approved by the Missouri Department of Conservation. Baiting is not allowed. Successful hunters must report their harvest and submit biological samples for research purposes.

The black bear hunt helps manage the growing bear population while offering a challenging pursuit for experienced hunters.

Hunting Gear and Equipment

Proper equipment is essential for a successful and ethical hunt in Missouri. Hunters utilize a range of tools and technologies to improve their chances of success while adhering to state regulations.

Archery Equipment

Compound bows and recurve bows are popular choices for Missouri archery hunters. Compounds offer adjustable draw weights and let-off, while recurves provide a traditional hunting experience. Arrows tipped with broadheads are required for big game. Crossbows are permitted during archery season for all hunters.

Some archers opt for rangefinders to improve accuracy. Treestands and ground blinds help conceal hunters from wary prey. Bow-mounted quivers keep arrows easily accessible.

Safety harnesses are crucial when hunting from elevated positions. Arm guards and finger tabs protect archers from string slap and improve comfort during long days afield.

Firearms and Ammunition

Rifles, shotguns, and muzzleloaders are allowed during specific Missouri hunting seasons. Centerfire rifles are common for deer hunting, with popular calibers including .30-30, .270, and .308. Shotguns loaded with slugs or buckshot are effective for shorter ranges.

Muzzleloaders offer an extended primitive weapons season. Both in-line and traditional designs are permitted. Hunters must use black powder or approved substitutes.

Centerfire pistols are legal for deer hunting in Missouri. Many opt for large-caliber revolvers or single-shot handguns for added challenge.

Hunters should always match their ammunition to the game being pursued and practice with their chosen firearm to ensure proficiency.

Technology in Hunting

Modern hunters benefit from various technological advancements. GPS devices help navigate unfamiliar terrain and mark productive hunting spots. Trail cameras allow scouting of game movements without disturbing the area.

Weather apps provide crucial information for planning hunts and predicting animal behavior. Some hunters use hunting-specific smartphone apps to track data and improve their skills.

Night vision equipment and thermal imagery devices are prohibited for hunting in Missouri. Artificial light is restricted to specific situations, such as raccoon hunting.

Electronic calls are permitted for some species but restricted for others. Hunters should always consult current regulations before using any electronic devices in the field.

Ethics and Conservation

Responsible hunting practices in Missouri balance wildlife conservation with ethical harvesting. Hunters play a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems and animal populations.

Wildlife Management

Missouri’s Department of Conservation uses scientific data to set hunting regulations. These rules help maintain balanced wildlife populations. Bag limits and season dates are adjusted based on animal surveys and habitat conditions.

Controlled hunting prevents overpopulation of deer and other species. This reduces risks of disease spread and habitat destruction. Hunting license fees fund conservation efforts, habitat restoration, and wildlife research.

Hunters assist in managing invasive species that threaten native wildlife. They also help control crop damage caused by overabundant animals.

Hunting Ethics

Ethical hunters follow fair chase principles. This means giving animals a reasonable chance to evade capture. Baiting and the use of artificial lights are prohibited in most cases.

Hunters must obtain proper licenses and landowner permissions. They are required to complete hunter education courses to learn safety and ethics.

Quick, clean kills are emphasized to minimize animal suffering. Hunters are expected to make full use of harvested game and avoid waste.

Respecting property boundaries and fellow outdoors enthusiasts is essential. Hunters should be mindful of their impact on the environment and practice “leave no trace” principles.