Hunting Regulations in Mississippi

Mississippi Wild Turkey Stamp now required ($15) for all turkey hunters starting 2026 season. WMA permit required for WMA hunting. Federal Duck Stamp and HIP for migratory birds. Non-residents cannot hunt public WMA lands before April 1 without drawn Non-Resident Public Lands Turkey Permit or WMA Draw Hunt. Residents 65+ license reduced.

Source: Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (mdwfp.com). Last updated: 2026-03-05. Regulations may have changed — always verify with the official agency.

Mississippi is one of the premier deer and turkey hunting states in the South, with a rich hunting culture that permeates every aspect of the state's identity. The whitetail deer herd is large and healthy, with quality bucks produced across the diverse habitats from the Mississippi Alluvial Valley bottomlands to the piney woods of the south. The state consistently produces trophy-class deer, and private hunting clubs and quality deer management programs have elevated trophy potential statewide.

The Mississippi Alluvial Valley — the great river delta — is arguably the best wintering habitat for mallards in North America, making duck hunting near Greenville and Yazoo City legendary among waterfowlers. Spring turkey hunting is exceptional throughout the state, with Mississippi's dense turkey population and open landscape ideal for calling. The new Wild Turkey Stamp (required starting 2026) provides additional funding for turkey management. Dove hunting in September over cut grain fields draws large numbers of hunters throughout the state.

Best Times to Hunt in Mississippi

🎯 Expert Hunting Tips for Mississippi

• Hunt the Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge complex near Yazoo City during December and January for massive concentrations of mallards in flooded corn and moist soil units.
• Scout the Homochitto National Forest in Adams and Franklin counties for deer — the creek drainages hold good buck populations with limited hunting pressure compared to private club land.
• For spring turkeys, apply for the Delta WMA draw hunt near Greenwood — public land birds in this river bottom habitat are responsive to calling in late March before regular season opens.
• Target pine plantation clear-cuts on the DeSoto National Forest in Hattiesburg-area WMAs for squirrel hunting in November when grey and fox squirrels are actively burying mast.