Hunting season is upon us. While not everyone hunts, everyone should be respectful while outdoors at this time. MDC (Missouri Department of Conservation) has some suggestions for anyone outdoors, whether or not they hunt. They are ways to be polite to your neighbor.
Hunter’s Responsibility
When hunting, safety is the hunter’s responsibility. A hunter must clearly identify their target before even putting their fingers on the triggers of their firearms or drawing their bows when archery hunting. They must also be aware of what is behind their targets and should never shoot at movement or sound.
Non-Hunters ‘ Responsibility
Here are safety tips for non-hunters:
Wear bright clothing, especially bright orange. Hats, jackets, and vests are good. Hunters know to recognize this color. Have your pet wear a bright orange bandana when outside. Avoid wearing browns and tan colors alone. They resemble wildlife. Stay on marked trails or roadways. When outside, let others know where you plan on being. Make yourself known, especially if you hear shooting.
Most hunters are active when wildlife is: in the mornings and at sunset. Be polite and avoid them when possible.
Seasons
Archery deer and turkey hunting runs through November 13 and opens again November 25 through January 15, 2027. Firearms turkey hunting is open October 1-31. Firearms deer hunting opens with the early antlerless portion October 9-11, followed by several other firearms portions through January 5, 2027.
