By Blake Jackson
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reported a preliminary total of 6,524 deer harvested during the state’s firearms Early Antlerless Portion, held October 9-11, 2026.
Franklin County led the harvest with 203 deer, followed by Howell County with 181 and Jefferson County with 177.
The total was lower than the 8,494 deer harvested during the same portion last year. MDC attributed the decline partly to record- to near-record-high temperatures during the hunting period.
Missouri’s deer hunting season continues through January 15, 2027. Archery season runs through November 13, 2026, before reopening November 25, 2026. The Early Youth Portion is scheduled for October 24-25, 2026, followed by the November Firearms Portion from November 14-24, 2026.
The Late Youth Portion runs November 27-29, while the Late Antlerless Portion takes place December 5-13, 2026, in select counties. The Alternative Methods Portion runs December 26, January 5, 2027.
Hunters can view county harvest totals at the MDC website.
Photo Credit: pexels-jim-fawns
Categories: Missouri, General