When Does Rifle Season Start in Missouri?
Introduction
Missouri is renowned for its exceptional deer hunting, with millions of acres of public and private land open to hunters. The state offers two major deer seasons: archery and rifle. If you’re planning to hunt deer in Missouri, understanding when rifle season starts is crucial. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of rifle season in Missouri, including the start date, bag limits, and important regulations.
Rifle Season Start Date in Missouri
Archery Season Followed by Rifle Season
Missouri has a unique deer hunting schedule, with archery season preceding rifle season. Archery season typically begins in mid-October and lasts for several weeks, providing archers with an extended period to hunt deer. Once archery season closes, rifle season commences. Rifle season usually starts in late November, with specific dates varying by zone and year. Make sure to check the Missouri Department of Conservation’s website for exact dates.
Rifle Season Zones
Missouri is divided into three rifle season zones:
- Zone C (central zone): November 22nd – November 30th
- Zone D (southeastern zone): November 22nd – November 30th
- Zone A and B (northeastern and northwestern zones): December 3rd – December 11th
Bag Limits and Regulations
Rifle Season Bag Limits:
- One antlered deer (buck) per season, regardless of zone
- Antlerless deer (doe) may be taken only during specific antlerless seasons, which typically coincide with rifle season in Zone C and D
- Bonus antlered deer tags may be available through a random drawing or earned through habitat plots or deer management permits
Rifle Season Regulations:
- Shooter hours: 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset
- Firearm restrictions: Only rifles with minimum centerfire rifle calibers of.243 or larger are permitted
- Hunting hours: Deer may only be taken between 30 minutes before sunrise and 30 minutes after sunset
- Vehicle restrictions: Vehicles are allowed on public roads, but not on private property or trails
Antlerless Deer Seasons
Antlerless deer seasons typically coincide with rifle season in Zone C and D, providing an opportunity for hunters to take does and even out the deer population. Antlerless seasons usually start in mid-December and last for a few days. Bag limits and regulations for antlerless seasons are identical to those for rifle season, with the exception of bag limits, which may be higher for antlerless deer.
Other Important Dates and Reminders
- Youth Hunt: Held in November, this special season allows young hunters (under 17) to hunt deer under adult supervision
- Extended Archery Season: Certain areas may have an extended archery season in late December and early January, providing an additional opportunity to hunt deer
- Check-in Stations: Required for all deer hunters to report their harvest, even if they didn’t harvest a deer
Table: Missouri Rifle Season Zones and Dates
| Zone | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Zone C | November 22nd | November 30th |
| Zone D | November 22nd | November 30th |
| Zone A and B | December 3rd | December 11th |
Conclusion
Missouri’s rifle season offers a thrilling experience for deer hunters. With specific dates and bag limits in place, it’s essential to understand the regulations and plan your hunt accordingly. By knowing when rifle season starts, you can prepare for the excitement and enjoy a successful hunting experience. Remember to check the Missouri Department of Conservation’s website for the most up-to-date information and regulations before heading out on your next deer hunting adventure.
