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St. LOUIS, Mo.— Missouri’s archery deer season is underway, and hunters statewide are heading to the woods to hunt deer. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds bow hunters to review current regulations, practice safe hunting habits, and consider helping others through the Share the Harvest program.
“Hunters should have the proper permits and be familiar with the rules for notching and checking their harvest,” said Jefferson County Conservation Agent Dominick Montileone. “It is also important to know the regulations that apply to the area where you are hunting, especially when hunting on Conservation Areas.”
Agent Montileone said the best tool for finding new and current regulations is in the current 2026 Fall Deer & Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information Booklet. This can be found at hunting/fishing permit retailers and at any MDC office. It is also available for viewing and PDF download at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZVo. The free MO Hunting mobile app for iOS and Android can be helpful as well for those who prefer to purchase and carry permits electronically. Learn more and download the app at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZoQ.
Safety is another important part of the season. As most hunting accidents involve improper tree stand practices, Agent Montileone reminds all hunters who use stands to employ a safety harness or fall-arrest system. Also, inspect all tree stand hardware thoroughly to make sure it is in good condition before climbing. Always use a haul line to raise and lower archery gear, and arrows should never be carried while climbing. Hunters must make certain broadhead arrows are always properly quivered when moving to and from a hunting position.
Keeping safety in the forefront the moment a deer is in sight is also crucial. “Hunters should always be certain of their target and what is beyond it before taking a shot,” Agent Montileone said. “Seeing movement or hearing sounds alone are never a justification to shoot.”
It’s also a good safety practice to let someone know where you are hunting and when you plan to return.
After the hunt, Agent Montileone encourages hunters who harvest a deer this season to consider participating in Missouri’s Share the Harvest program. “Share the Harvest gives hunters an opportunity to donate all or part of their deer to help provide meat to local families in need,” he said.
Through this voluntary program, donated deer are taken to participating meat processors, where the venison is processed and distributed through food banks and other organizations across the state, Agent Montileone explained. Hunters can choose how much of their deer they would like to donate and can keep the remaining portion for themselves.
“Share the Harvest is a great way for hunters to put their harvest to good use while helping others in their community,” said Agent Montileone.
Hunters might even consider purchasing an extra permit so they can take a deer for themselves, and another to donate to Share the Harvest. Hunters interested in donating should contact a participating processor before bringing in their deer to find out about the donation process and any requirements.
“As the archery season continues, MDC encourages hunters to enjoy their time outdoors, respect landowners and other hunters, and follow Missouri’s hunting regulations,” Agent Montileone said.
“Taking a few extra minutes to prepare and make safety a priority can help ensure a successful and enjoyable hunting season.”
