Mississippi Hunting Seasons & Licensing: What You Need To Know (2024)

If you're looking to hunt in Mississippi, it's important to familiarize yourself with the state's hunting seasons and licensing requirements.

In this blog post, we will outline everything you need to know in order to legally hunt in Mississippi. We'll provide an overview of the different types of licenses available, as well as information on specific hunting seasons for each game species.

So whether you're a first-time hunter or just need a refresher on Mississippi's hunting regulations, read on for all the details!

Hunting In Mississippi

There's something special about hunting in Mississippi. The state is home to some of the best hunting grounds in the country, and its diverse landscapes make for an enjoyable and challenging hunting experience. Here's what you can expect when hunting in Mississippi.

The first thing you'll notice is the diversity of the terrain. Mississippi has everything from dense forests to open fields, and each offers its own unique hunting experience. You'll also find a variety of wildlife to hunt, including deer, turkey, quail, and ducks.

One of the best things about hunting in Mississippi is the opportunity to experience different types of hunting. If you're looking for a challenging hunt, you can head to the Mississippi Delta and try your hand at hunting alligators. Or, if you're looking for a more relaxed hunt, you can head to the coast and go hunting for deer or ducks.

No matter what type of hunting you're looking for, you'll find it in Mississippi. So come on down and experience the best hunting the state

Mississippi Alligator Seasons

General Season

Public Waters: Aug. 27-Sept. 6
Private Lands: Aug. 28-Sept. 20

*In Mississippi, alligators may only be hunted by special permit. Permits can be applied for online. Individuals who are drawn through the lottery system to receive alligator permits are required to attend an alligator hunting training course, or must previously have completed the course. Hunters must be at least 16 years old and residents of Mississippi.

Mississippi Deer Seasons

Archery	Oct. 1-Nov. 29**
Youth Gun	Nov. 6-19 and Nov. 20-Feb. 15**
Firearms	Nov. 20-Jan. 19**
Primitive Weapon	Antlerless: Nov. 8-19 Jan. 20-Feb. 15

**Season dates vary by zone, as well as for hunting with and without dogs. Mississippi is divided into five regions, especially for deer seasons: Delta, Northeast, East Central, Southwest, and Southeast. Each has corresponding hunting dates. For more information on hunting dates in your specific area, visit the Mississippi Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks website.

Mississippi Wild Turkey Seasons

Fall General Season	Oct. 15-Nov. 15
Spring Youth Season	March 8-14
Spring General Season	March 15-May 1

Fall turkey season is open by permit only on private lands in specific Mississippi counties. For more information on where you can hunt turkey in Mississippi, visit the Mississippi Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks website.

Mississippi Small Game Seasons

Rabbit	Oct. 16-Feb. 28
Bobwhite Quail	Nov. 25-March 5
Raccoon	Food and sport: Oct. 1-31 Food, sport, and pelt: Nov. 1-Feb. 28
Opossum	Food and sport: Oct. 1-31 Food, sport, and pelt: Nov. 1-Feb. 28
Fall Squirrel	Oct. 1-Feb. 28
Spring Squirrel	May 15-June 1
Youth Squirrel	Sept. 24-30

How To Get A Hunting License In Mississippi?

Depending on your age, you may be required to have the Hunter Education Completion Card in order to legally buy a license or permit to hunt.

Complete the Mississippi hunter education certification requirements.
Choose the correct license type.
Buy the license through the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks website or a Mississippi–approved vendor.

Mississippi License Expiration

Hunting licenses are good for one year from the date of purchase. Mississippi residents and non-residents are able to purchase a lifetime hunting license.

Where to Buy a Mississippi Hunting License

Visit the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks website.
Call 1-800-5GO-HUNT (1-800-546-4868).
Visit the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks office or an approved vendor.
Mail in a paper application.

Bag limits, special seasons and hunting regulations for Mississippi hunting seasons do vary based on animal and seasons. Mississippi is divided into three regions, especially for deer seasons: Delta (western Mississippi) Hill (middle Mississippi) and Southeast. For more information on obtaining licenses, permits and regulations, visit the Mississippi Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks website.