Janis Reeser
Columbia Daily Tribune
April 11, 2026, 3:46 a.m. CT
Missouri’s rise in nonresident deer hunting prompts review of rules
The Missouri Department of Conservation is considering changes to regulations for nonresident deer hunting.
The MDC is seeking feedback from Missouri deer hunters and others on potential updates to the Wildlife Code of Missouri, according to a community announcement.
One proposed change for the 2026 deer season would reduce the antlered buck bag limit for nonresidents from two to one, while nonresident landowners would retain a limit of two antlered bucks.
Additionally, for the 2027 deer season, the MDC is considering requiring nonresident deer hunters to purchase a Nonresident Public Land Deer Hunting Permit for $165 to hunt, take, possess and transport deer on public land.
Looking beyond the 2027 season, the department is also contemplating the introduction of a draw system for nonresidents to hunt deer on public land or on public and private land.Need a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!
Significant increase in nonresident hunters noted
Over the past two decades, the number of nonresident deer hunters in Missouri has increased significantly. Around 20 years ago, there were approximately 20,000 nonresident deer hunters, which accounted for about 4% of the state’s nearly 475,000 total deer hunters, according to the announcement.
By last year, that number had more than doubled to about 42,000 nonresident deer hunters, representing about 9% of the total deer hunters in Missouri.
This increase has raised concerns among some resident hunters, particularly regarding the impact on their hunting experiences on public land.
Nonresident hunters contribute to local economies
Nonresident hunters make valuable contributions to local economies and communities when they travel to Missouri. Many small businesses and landowners benefit from the spending of these hunters. However, the MDC also aims to provide quality hunting opportunities for resident hunters and acknowledges the important role they play in sustaining Missouri’s deer population.
The proposed changes are designed to address the concerns of resident hunters while balancing the interests of nonresident hunters.
Public input sought on potential regulation changes
The MDC values public input and has previously sought feedback from deer hunters on nonresident hunting through a 2024 survey of deer hunters and a public commenting opportunity tied to the Department’s Deer Management Plan update, according to the announcement.
In 2025, the department surveyed a sample of 56,000 resident hunters and 1,800 nonresident hunters and collected public comments. Additionally, the MDC held 10 open houses across the state in 2025 to gather input on deer management in Missouri.
The department welcomes public comments on the potential regulation changes for nonresident deer hunters through April 20. Those interested can provide feedback online at mdc.mo.gov/contact-engage/public-commenting-opportunities/nonresident-deer-hunting-changes.
For more information about deer hunting in Missouri, visit mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/deer.