Description

when is missouri youth deer season ?

Get Ready for the 2023 Missouri Youth Deer Season!

Are you a young hunter or a parent looking to introduce your child to the thrilling world of deer hunting in Missouri? If so, you’re in luck! The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has designed a special Youth Portion of the deer hunting season, specifically tailored for young hunters. In this article, we’ll dive into the essential details you need to know about the 2023 Missouri Youth Deer Season.

**Mark Your Calendars: October 28-29, 2023**

The 2023 Missouri Youth Deer Season is scheduled for October 28-29, 2023, as part of the Firearms Early Youth Portion. This two-day season is open to young hunters who meet specific age requirements, providing an excellent opportunity for them to gain experience and develop their skills in a fun and supportive environment.

**Who Can Participate?**

To take part in the Missouri Youth Deer Season, hunters must meet the following criteria:

* **Age Requirement:** Hunters must be at least 6 years old and no older than 15 years old on the opening day of the early youth portion (October 28, 2023).
* **Antler-Point Restriction Exemption:** Hunters who are 15 years old or younger on September 15, 2023, are exempt from the antler-point restriction during the archery deer season and all portions of the firearms season.

**What Do You Need to Participate?**

Before heading out into the field, make sure you have the necessary permits and follow all regulations:

1. **Valid Permits:**
* **Youth Permit:** The cost of a youth deer hunting permit is $9.50 for Missouri residents.
* **Landowner Permits:** Resident landowners and their children (including those under 18) do not need a permit to hunt on their own property.
* **Nonresident Youth Permit:** Nonresident youth hunters can purchase a permit for $195.00.
2. **Hunting Hours:** Deer hunting hours are from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.
3. **Bag Limits and Restrictions:**
* Hunters can take up to two deer during the youth portion, but only one antlered deer may be harvested during the early youth portion.
* Antler-point restrictions apply in some counties, but youth hunters are exempt.

**Other Important Deer Seasons in Missouri**

While the youth season is a highlight, Missouri offers several other deer hunting opportunities throughout the year. Here are the key dates for the 2023-2024 deer seasons:

* **Archery Deer Season:** September 15, 2023 – November 10, 2023, and November 22, 2023 – January 15, 2024
* **Firearms Deer Season:**
* **Early Antlerless Portion:** October 6-8, 2023 (in open counties)
* **Early Youth Portion:** October 28-29, 2023
* **November Portion:** November 11-21, 2023
* **CWD Portion:** November 22-26, 2023 (in open counties)
* **Late Portion:** November 24-26, 2023

**Additional Resources**

For more information on deer hunting in Missouri, including season dates, permit requirements, and regulations, visit the Missouri Department of Conservation’s official website: [https://mdc.mo.gov](https://mdc.mo.gov)

**Conclusion**

The Missouri Youth Deer Season is an incredible opportunity for young hunters to experience the thrill of deer hunting in a supportive environment. With the 2023 season just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start preparing. Make sure to review all regulations, obtain the necessary permits, and get ready for a safe and successful hunt! Happy hunting!