JACKSON – Many Mississippians are looking forward to the opening of deer archery season on October 1 for the Hill and Delta Zones and October 15 for the Southeast Zone. Longbows, recurves, compound bows, and crossbows are all considered legal archery equipment and can be used during all seasons for deer. There is no minimum or maximum draw weight, no minimum arrow length, and fixed or mechanical broadheads may be used.
“Deer numbers are high statewide, and abundant rainfall has had a positive impact on antler development. Also, the white oak acorn crop is looking good, which is a recipe for abundant bowhunting opportunities and better than expected antler quality. We are excited about the potential overall deer harvest and buck quality this season may bring,” says Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) Deer Program Leader Lann M. Wilf. “We are coming off of a couple of years of reduced harvest, which was partially related to weather. Hopefully, weather will be favorable for improving deer visibility and harvest this year.”
MDWFP reminds all Wildlife Management Area (WMA) hunters that they are required to wear a full-body harness (fall-arrest system) while climbing a tree, installing a tree stand that uses climbing aids, or while hunting from a tree stand on a WMA. While required on WMAs, the MDWFP urges all hunters to wear and know how to properly use a full-body harness while hunting from an elevated position. Take time before your hunt to be sure you have all the proper safety equipment and remember that the most important part of the hunt is making it home.
For more information regarding deer, hunting zones, or hunting opportunities in Mississippi, visit our website at http://www.mdwfp.com/deer or call us at (601) 432-2199.
Citizen Sportsman 