Missouri Hosts 3rd Annual Governor’s Mentored Deer Hunt

By Blake Jackson

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), along with several partner organizations, will host the Third Annual Governor’s Mentored Deer Hunt from Friday, Oct. 10, through Sunday, Oct. 12. The event coincides with Missouri’s early firearms antlerless deer season and will take place across multiple counties.

The hunts are made possible through collaboration with the Conservation Federation of Missouri, National Wild Turkey Federation, National Deer Association, Missouri Hunting Heritage Foundation, Pheasants & Quail Forever, Kansas City Safari Club International, Missouri Disabled Sportsmen, Missouri’s Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus, Whitetails Unlimited, ALPS Outdoorz, Dead End Game Calls, MO Woods and Wildlife, and Missouri Back Country Hunters and Anglers.

“These partners have come together to host events endorsed by Governor Mike Kehoe that mentor new hunters and manage deer populations for participating landowners,” said MDC Education and Outreach Coordinator Rob Garver. “This is a great opportunity for people to learn more about hunting and get a chance to harvest their first deer.”

Participants will be paired with an experienced mentor for hands-on hunting experience. In addition to time in the field, they will learn about the importance of hunting in conservation, deer biology, hunting tactics, etiquette, firearm safety, and other essential skills.

Registration closes Sunday, Aug. 31. Interested individuals must first register at MDC’s website. After registration, applicants will be contacted to complete an application. Priority will be given to those who have never hunted or have never harvested a deer.

Hunts will be offered in Audrain, Benton, Howell, Madison, Maries, Phelps, Osage, Pike, Putnam, and Shelby counties.

Selected participants will need a Firearms Antlerless Deer Hunting Permit or a Firearms Any-Deer Hunting Permit. Those without hunter education can apply with an Apprentice Hunter Authorization.

For more information, contact Rob Garver at 573-522-4115 ext. 6507 or Rob.Garver@mdc.mo.gov.

Photo Credit: pexels-jim-fawns