Understanding Missouri Deer Hunting Season 2025
If you're planning to participate in the Missouri deer hunting season in 2025, preparation starts now. Knowing the hunting rules, permit regulations, and dates is essential for a successful and legal experience. Missouri is home to an abundant white-tailed deer population, making it a top destination for hunters across the Midwest.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Missouri's deer season: from season dates to permit requirements, hunting zones, and frequently asked questions.
Missouri Deer Hunting Season Dates for 2025
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) manages wildlife seasons and regulations to conserve natural resources. Missouri deer season offers multiple opportunities for hunters with different weapon choices and age groups.
Here are the anticipated season dates for Missouri's 2025 deer hunting season (subject to MDC confirmation):
- Archery Season: September 15, 2025 – November 15, 2025, and November 27, 2025 – January 15, 2026
- Firearms – Early Youth Portion: October 26 – October 27, 2025
- Firearms – November Portion: November 16 – November 26, 2025
- Firearms – Late Youth Portion: November 29 – December 1, 2025
- Firearms – Alternative Methods: December 28, 2025 – January 7, 2026
- Firearms – Antlerless Portion: December 6 – December 8, 2025 (only in select counties)
- Firearms – CWD Management Zone: Dates may vary by county for specific Chronic Wasting Disease containment efforts
Always verify with the MDC for final season dates and regulations before heading out.
Licensing and Permit Requirements in Missouri
To legally hunt deer in Missouri, you must hold an appropriate hunting permit based on your residency status, age, and weapon of choice.
Here are the main permit types and requirements:
- Resident Firearms Any-Deer Permit: Allows harvesting one deer of either sex.
- Resident Antlerless Deer Permit: Valid in areas with approved quotas; multiple permits may be purchased.
- Nonresident Firearms Any-Deer Permit: Includes one any-sex deer and the option to buy antlerless permits where valid.
- Archery Deer Permits: Separate from firearms permits; include both any-sex and antlerless tags.
You must also complete a hunter education program if born on or after January 1, 1967. Some exceptions apply for youth hunters and certain landowners.
Deer Hunting Zones and County-Specific Rules
Missouri’s deer hunting regulations vary by county. The state is divided into Deer Management Zones that determine:
- Total number of deer you may harvest
- Availability of antlerless permits
- CWD (Chronic Wasting Disease) surveillance requirements
Some counties may also require mandatory sampling during special CWD surveillance periods. Check MDC’s regional guidelines before selecting a hunting area.
Firearms and Archery Equipment Regulations
Missouri deer hunting laws regulate the type of equipment you can use during each season:
- Archery Season: Bows, crossbows, and longbows are allowed.
- Firearms Season: Centerfire rifles .22 caliber or larger, handguns, muzzleloaders, and shotguns with slugs.
- Alternative Methods Season: Includes atlatls, air-powered weapons, muzzleloaders, and bows.
It's illegal to hunt with fully automatic firearms or use poisoned arrows. All weapons must meet safety and ethical standards.
Youth Hunting Opportunities in Missouri
Missouri encourages young hunters to take part in the tradition through designated youth-only firearms seasons.
To participate:
- Youths must be 6–15 years old during youth seasons.
- Youth hunters must be accompanied by a licensed adult (17+).
- Youths may also hunt during the general firearms and archery seasons.
These youth-only weekends offer a safe, low-pressure environment to learn ethical hunting practices.
What Are the Bag Limits for Missouri Deer Season?
Understanding deer bag limits in Missouri ensures you comply with legal harvest numbers.
A hunter can generally take:
- One antlered deer during the firearms season (per hunter per year)
- Additional antlered deer may be taken during archery season (limit of one total between all seasons)
- Several antlerless deer, depending on permit availability and location
These limits help maintain a healthy deer population and ecosystem balance.
Where Can You Hunt Deer in Missouri?
You can hunt on both public and private lands, with specific permissions.
- Public Lands: Missouri conservation areas and national forests allow access with proper permits.
- Private Lands: Must have written permission from landowners.
- Managed Deer Hunts: Apply in advance for MDC special lottery hunts on high-use public lands.
Use MDC’s online and printed maps to locate hunting zones and validate land access status.
FAQ: Missouri Deer Season Rules & Permits 2025
Do I need a permit to hunt deer on my own land in Missouri?
If you qualify as a landowner under MDC rules and register your land, you may hunt deer without purchasing a permit. However, you must still follow statewide regulations and bag limits.
Can nonresidents hunt deer in Missouri?
Yes, nonresidents can hunt deer in Missouri if they possess a Nonresident Firearms or Archery Deer Permit. Check MDC for nonresident fees and permit availability.
Is baiting allowed for deer hunting in Missouri?
No, it is illegal to use bait such as corn or mineral licks to attract deer. You must remove any bait at least 10 days before hunting in that area.
What should I do if I harvest a deer?
You must immediately notch your permit and Telecheck your deer with the MDC. This can be done via phone or the “MO Hunting” mobile app before midnight on the day of harvest.
How can I apply for a managed hunt?
You can apply for MDC-managed hunts online during the summer application period, typically from July to August. Selection is based on a random drawing system.
Final Tips for a Responsible Missouri Deer Hunt
A safe and ethical hunt starts with preparation and respect for the environment. Always:
- Verify your permits before the season opens
- Review and follow county-specific rules
- Wear hunter orange during firearms season
- Respect private land boundaries
- Report your harvest promptly
The 2025 Missouri deer season offers memorable opportunities for new and experienced hunters alike. Follow the regulations, hunt respectfully, and contribute to wildlife conservation efforts. With the right preparation, your next Missouri deer hunt can be a safe and successful adventure.
