The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is providing new hunters with opportunities to start deer hunting through hands-on, mentored experiences.
In the month of July, hunters can apply for 150 managed deer hunts across Missouri, including archery, muzzleloading, shotgun, and modern firearms hunts from mid-September to mid-January at various locations. Some of these hunts in the St. Louis region are mentored hunts.
Mentored hunts are tailored for beginners who have not previously harvested a deer. They often include educational clinics and the guidance of an experienced MDC-approved mentor. These hunts offer a practical introduction to deer hunting.
Below is a list of mentored managed hunts scheduled in the St. Louis region for the 2024-2025 deer hunting season: Oct. 21-22, August A. Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center, hunt #112; Nov. 25-26, August A. Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center, hunt #113; Oct. 14-15 and Oct. 21-22, Forest 44 Conservation Area, hunt 116; and Oct. 19-27, Shaw Nature Reserve (women only, hunters must provide mentor), hunt #117.
Applications for managed hunts are accepted from July 1-31, and participants are selected through a random drawing process. The results will be announced starting from Aug. 15.
For more information about each hunt and to apply online, visit mdc.mo.gov/managedhunt.
