Predictions are for a “tremendous deer harvest” from biologists with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks as the season approaches.

Chad Dacus, deer program coordinator, reports a robust deer population entered an exceptionally supporting growing season this spring and summer, resulting in healthy numbers of deer.

“Every day we hear from bow hunters and others that deer activity is picking up,” said Dacus. “Many hunters are seeing early activity in food plants, which were planted ahead of recent rains. However, acorns will be the principal deer food as long as they are available.”

Many Mississippians are already busy sighting in rifles, checking stands and making last-minute preparations for Mississippi’s gun season, which opens for youth hunters in Zone 1 on Nov. 15 and for all hunters on Nov. 22. Zone 1 includes all but the coastal and southeastern counties. The archery season opened on Oct. 15 and closes Nov. 21.

“This is a terrific time for new hunters to be introduced to the sport. Young hunters, those under 16 years of age, have a full week of deer hunting before the traditional opening day. They may also use modern rifles during the primitive weapon season,” noted Larry Castle, director of wildlife. “In addition, they can shoot one buck with any type antlers as part of a three-buck season limit. This applies statewide to private lands and include most of our (wildlife management areas).”

Youth hunters must be accompanied by a licensed adult 21 or older. For older newcomers to deer hunting, an apprentice license law allows them to hunt for a season prior to a completed and approved hunter education course.

License sales have been brisk in recent weeks as hunters prepare for the season, said Castle. Point of sale machines at retail outlets remain the most popular method of purchasing licenses, but other methods — such as online and by phone — are also available. Licenses can be purchased by calling 1-800-5GO-HUNT, or online at www.mdwfp.com. Licenses are valid for one year from the date of purchase. 

Exact season dates and regulations are available by clicking here or by calling  601-432-2400.

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Contact Steve Sanoski at ssanoski@vicksburgpost.com.