It’s autumn. The leaves are falling, and the days are cool and crisp. It’s the time of year when the thoughts of men and women across the country turn to … deer hunting in the Show-Me State. And why not? It’s one of the top places to hunt whitetail in the U.S.
Missouri Conservation
One of the main attractions for hunting in Missouri is the abundant public land open to the sport and one of the best – if not the best – conservation programs in the country, all funded by a designated sales tax voted in by the people of the Show-Me State.
Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned hunter, coming from out-of-state or hunting near to home, here is the 411 on fall deer hunting in Missouri.
When is Missouri Deer Season?
Deer season in Missouri begins with archery in mid-September, followed by firearm portions starting in October and ending in January. A special firearms portion using alternative firearms methods runs from late December to early January. Seasons, permits, and species have specific rules governing the type of firearm, bow, atlatl, and slingshot that may be used to hunt. Reference the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) website for information about archery and firearms seasons, permits, and limits. To purchase your hunting permits, try the convenient MoHunting App.
Deer Hunting Rules and Regulations
In Missouri, deer hunting regulations vary by season (archery, firearms, alternative methods) and include specific requirements for permits, equipment, hunting methods, and antler restrictions. Antlerless permits also have county-specific restrictions. General regulations cover areas like hunting from vehicles, using artificial lights, and baiting. Be sure to visit the MDC website for more information.
Where to Hunt
Missouri’s metropolitan areas are a complex mix of municipal and county governments, each with its own jurisdiction and set of laws. Some of these governments allow the use of hunting equipment such as firearms, crossbows, and bows within their boundaries. Others do not. With a little research and hard work, metro hunters can successfully find a close-to-home hunting spot.
Share the Harvest
One of the very best parts of deer hunting in Missouri is eating what you harvest. But with the generous limits, some hunters can end up with an embarrassment of riches. That’s where the Share the Harvest program to feed the hungry comes in. If you have an extra deer, just take it to an approved processor (list found on the MDC website) and tell them how much meat you want to donate. Often the processing fees are covered in part or in full by sponsors, and hungry families gratefully line up at food pantries for this otherwise-rare offering of high-quality protein.
More Fall Hunting
If venison isn’t your thing there are other fall hunting seasons to check out.
Turkey Season
Thanksgiving is right around the corner and Missouri’s fall firearms turkey season occurs during the month of October. The fall archery turkey season begins in September and ends in January.
Waterfowl Season
Waterfowl hunting in Missouri includes ducks, geese, and coots. Seasons specific to species and range from mid-September to January.
Check the Missouri Department of Conservation website for details on all hunting seasons.