MDC announces regulation changes for archery deer, turkey hunting seasons

(KOAM) - The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is reminding hunters of important regulation changes for the current archery deer and turkey hunting seasons, including the introduction of a new fall turkey permit.

“MDC has created a new fall turkey-hunting permit, which means turkey permits are no longer included with an archery deer-hunting permit,” said Russell Duckworth, MDC Protection Captain.

Now, hunters must purchase a separate permit for both fall firearms and archery turkey hunting.

Additionally, the fall turkey season has been divided into archery and firearms portions, with the combined harvest limit reduced from four to two birds of either sex. Duckworth noted that the annual turkey harvest in Missouri’s Southeast Region has remained steady at around 500 birds in recent years, with 55% to 75% of hens being harvested.

According to the MDC, hunters must purchase their permits prior to hunting, and they are required to notch their permit immediately after harvesting a deer or turkey, followed by checking the animal by 10 p.m. on the day of the harvest.

Archery turkey season runs through Nov. 15, with a second portion from Nov. 27 to Jan. 15, 2025. Fall firearms turkey season is open from Oct. 1 to Oct. 31 in designated counties.

For more information, visit MDC's hunting season page .

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