In Oregon County, Missouri, deer hunting is a favorite pastime and one of the main ways to get meat for the rest of the year. Right now, archery season is in full swing. If you’re thinking about going deer hunting with a firearm, here are some basics of what you should know and do.
Permits
One of the first things you should do is get your permits, whether you get paper permits or online permits. You should also find out if you’re eligible for landowner permits.
Firearms
A couple weeks before firearm season, make sure to shoot your gun to make sure it’s sighted in and working properly; as well as making sure you have enough ammo.
Location
If you’re hunting on your own land, put cameras out or look for where the deer walk. Scout out places to put your deer stand or deer blind. The same thing applies if you’re hunting on public land: set out cameras, look for deer paths, find good deer stand spots. If you’re hunting on your property, clear away any branches that may be in your line of fire.
Supplies
Before you go hunting, make sure you have everything you need. Gun, ammo, flashlight, water, snacks, hand warmers if it’s cold, a knife, and something orange like a vest or hat. If you’re hunting farther away from your house, a first aid kit should be packed. Other items you can bring include scents to hide your smell, as well as buck attracting scents.
Gutting
Decide before hunting whether you’re going to gut and clean the deer or if you’ll bring it to a deer processing place. If you’re going to bring it to a deer processing location, know where processing places are and when they’re open.
Know the Seasons
Another thing you should know is all the deer hunting seasons Oregon County has and what type of deer you can shoot during those seasons.
