Hunting is an age old pastime in the Ozarks. Grandparents that have fond memories of deer and turkey hunting on the family farm share hunting experiences with their grandchildren, who then make their own hunting memories with THEIR kids and grandkids. The Ozarks is a prime hunting area – the challenging terrain and volatile weather can often hide big deer and turkey for those who are patient enough to find them. With hunting season in full swing, there is no reason for you to be left out of the chase. So read on to find out what you need, where to go, and how to stay safe this hunting season!
What to Get: Obviously, in order to go hunting, you will need a weapon of some kind. You can choose between hunting with a firearm, and hunting with a bow and arrow – each one has different season dates, and different pros and cons. What you choose all comes down to personal preference – some people like the power of a rifle, and some people prefer the added skill and patience of a bow and arrow. Once you have chosen your weapon, you will need to purchase hunting tags in order to legally hunt – these can be purchased at a sport/outdoors store, many gas stations, and Walmart. Rifle tags require that you have a Hunters Safety License; archery tags do not. You will also want to get some camo for your hunting collection – camouflage clothing breaks up your outline and makes it harder for your prey to spot you. A hunter orange article of clothing is required for rifle hunting deer in Missouri; while it is not required, it is a good idea for archery hunters too.
Where to Hunt: In Missouri, you have two kinds of land to hunt on – public or private. Before you do either, make sure you know the rules and regulations for wherever you intend to be hunting. Hunting on public land usually requires some extra precautions. Below are a couple of options for hunting on both public and private land here in the Ozarks: Busiek State Park and Wildlife Area: Hunting for all major game species is allowed at Busiek State Park in season, provided the hunter complies with the rules and regulations set forth by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC). There is a good population of deer and turkey within the park, and squirrels too, if that appeals to you! Download the Annual Fall Deer and Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information booklet from the MDC website for more information. Elkhead Ranch: Elkhead Ranch is a privately owned hunting retreat in Southwest Missouri that offers seasonal deer and turkey hunting. Hunters have the opportunity to hunt with a rifle or a bow out of one of the ranch’s many deer stands and hunting blinds, including two ‘deer condos’ (enclosed and windowed elevated deer stands complete with comfy chairs) that overlook one of several food plots. Food plots and Game Cameras are maintained to draw in and observe the deer. Hunters at Elkhead Ranch can stay in a special hunter’s cabin and are fed a home cooked supper made by the ranch family.
Staying Safe: Safety should always be your top priority when hunting. Be familiar with the MDC’s hunting regulations, and always wear a hunter orange article of clothing. Know your weapon, and always treat it as if it were loaded; for rifles, keep the safety on until you are safely aimed to shoot. Always let someone know where you will be hunting and what time you plan to return. Be aware, be observant, and you can make great hunting memories for years to come!
