Missouri Hunting Guide
Complete Missouri hunting guide. Missouri hunting seasons, license costs, bag limits, and regulations for all major game species. Updated for the current season.
Wildlife Agency
Missouri Department of Conservation
Hunter safety course required for first-time buyers
Missouri Hunting Seasons
Whitetail Deer
Res: $19 Non-res: $225
| Season Type | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|
| Archery | Sep 15 | Nov 10 |
| Rifle | Nov 11 | Nov 21 |
| Muzzleloader | Dec 16 | Dec 26 |
Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 2 antlered
Antlerless permits required for does. Missouri has one of the highest deer densities. CWD management zones in effect.
Turkey
Res: $19 Non-res: $225
| Season Type | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|
| Shotgun | Apr 17 | May 7 |
| Archery | Sep 15 | Nov 10 |
Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 2 (spring)
Spring season for bearded turkeys. Fall archery concurrent with deer archery season. Excellent public land opportunities.
Quail
Res: $19 Non-res: $225
| Season Type | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|
| Shotgun | Nov 1 | Jan 15 |
Bag limits: daily: 8, season: No limit
Bobwhite quail. Conservation efforts ongoing. Best populations in northern Missouri grasslands.
Planning Tools
- Hunt Cost Calculator — budget your full hunt cost
- Season Tag Planner — never miss an opening day
- Preference Point Tracker — when should you burn your points?
Missouri Hunting Guides
Missouri Hunting FAQ
Do I need a hunting license in Missouri?
Yes. All hunters in Missouri must hold a valid hunting license from the Missouri Department of Conservation. Non-residents typically pay higher fees. A hunter safety course is required for first-time license buyers.
What is the hunting license cost in Missouri?
Missouri license costs vary by species. Whitetail Deer: resident $19, non-resident $225. Turkey: resident $19, non-resident $225.
When is deer season in Missouri?
Missouri deer seasons: Archery: Sep 15 - Nov 10, Rifle: Nov 11 - Nov 21, Muzzleloader: Dec 16 - Dec 26.
Does Missouri require a hunter safety course?
Yes, Missouri requires hunter education certification for all first-time hunters. The course covers firearm safety, hunting laws, wildlife conservation, and ethical hunting practices.
Who manages hunting regulations in Missouri?
The Missouri Department of Conservation manages all hunting licenses, regulations, and wildlife management in Missouri. Their website (https://mdc.mo.gov) has current season dates, license purchasing, and regulation booklets.