Missouri Just Made 4 Changes to Deer Regulations

I'm familiar with the old saying the more things change, the more they stay the same. This isn't that. The state of Missouri has just made changes to 4 deer regulations that would be good for hunters to be aware of.

The Missouri Department of Conservation just gave initial approval to 4 deer regulation changes

The press release from the Missouri Department of Conservation clarifies what changes they are looking to make:

Removal of CWD Portion of Firearms Deer Season

The 5-day chronic wase disease part of firearms season wasn't really making an impact in harvest numbers, so the plan is to do away with that period.

Removal of CWD Management Zone

What began as 6 counties 13 years ago now includes a staggering 82 which makes regulations more complex than they need to be between counties. This designation would be removed.

Removal of the Antler Point Restriction

Antler point restriction was only still applicable to 18 counties. Removing the APR is meant to simplify things for hunters.

Increase Acreage for CWD Management Permits

The Missouri Department of Conservation offered CWD permits for owners with 5 acres in a CWD core area. They now say "beginning in 2026, landowners will be required to have at least 20 acres in a CWD core area to receive CWD Management Permits".

If you want more specifics or have questions, you're encouraged to check the Missouri Department of Conservation news and updates for the latest.