Mississippi Hunting License Guide
Your guide to Mississippi hunting licenses — costs, seasons, and how to apply through MDWFP.
Mississippi Hunting License Fees (2025-2026)
Mississippi is a premier hunting state in the Deep South, managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP). The Magnolia State offers abundant white-tailed deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, and small game across its mix of Delta bottomlands, pine forests, and hardwood ridges. Mississippi has one of the longest deer seasons in the country, and the Delta region is legendary for its waterfowl hunting along the Mississippi Flyway. The state uses a Sportsman's License system where the base license covers all game with archery and primitive weapon privileges. Seniors aged 65 and older are exempt from most license requirements. Mississippi's unique velvet-season buck hunting in September is a popular early-season opportunity. Non-residents should budget for the All Game license plus separate deer and turkey permits. Hunter education is required for anyone born after January 1, 1972. Licenses can be purchased from July 1 through June 30 of the following year.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Sportsman's License | $36.00 | — | 1 year | All game + archery/primitive |
| NR All Game Hunting | — | $300.00 | 1 year | |
| NR 7-Day All Game | — | $200.00 | 7 days | |
| NR 3-Day All Game | — | $100.00 | 3 days | |
| NR Deer Permit | — | $225.00 | Season | Includes velvet season |
| NR Turkey Stamp | — | $75.00 | Season | |
| Resident WMA User Permit | $15.00 | — | 1 year | |
| NR WMA User Permit | — | $50.00 | 1 year | |
| State Waterfowl Stamp | $5.50 | $15.00 | 1 year | |
| Armed Forces 14-Day Hunt/Fish | — | $32.00 | 14 days | |
| Federal Duck Stamp | $30.00 | $30.00 | 1 year |
Prices from Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. Last verified: 2026-03-13. Always confirm current fees with the official state agency before purchase.
Hunter Education Requirements
Required for anyone born after January 1, 1972. Apprentice license available for one-time exemption.
How to Buy a Mississippi Hunting License
- 1
Complete Hunter Education
If required, complete a state-approved hunter education course before purchasing your license.
- 2
Gather Required Documents
Have your government-issued photo ID, Social Security Number, and proof of residency (if applicable) ready.
- 3
Visit the Official Portal
Go to Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks or an authorized retail agent (Walmart, sporting goods stores).
- 4
Select License Type & Pay
Choose the appropriate license type for your needs, add any required endorsements or tags, and complete payment.
- 5
Print or Save Your License
Print your license or save a digital copy. You must carry your valid license while hunting in Mississippi.
Need help? Call Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks at 601-432-2400
Mississippi Hunting Seasons (2025-2026)
| Species | Method | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer | Archery | October 1 | November 21 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Firearms | November 22 | February 1 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Primitive Weapon | October 11 | November 21 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Velvet Season | September 15 | September 30 | Special velvet buck season |
| Turkey | Spring | March 15 | May 1 | |
| Duck | General | November 22 | January 26 | |
| Dove | General | September 6 | January 15 | |
| Quail | General | November 22 | March 1 |
Discounts & Exemptions
| Group | Benefit | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Senior | Free | Mississippi residents aged 65 and older are exempt from most license fees |
| Youth | Free for under 16 | Youth under 16 can hunt without a license when accompanied by a licensed adult |
| Disabled Veteran | Reduced | Disabled Mississippi veterans may qualify for reduced-fee licenses |
| Active Military | 14-Day License ($32) | Active duty military — Armed Forces 14-Day Hunt/Fish license |
| Landowner | Exempt on own land | Resident landowners hunting on their own property |
Mississippi Hunting Regulations Overview
Bag Limits
Check species-specific bag limits in the Mississippi official regulations. Limits vary by species, management unit, and season.
Legal Methods
Approved hunting methods include firearm, archery, and muzzleloader. Specific rules apply to each method.
Safety Requirements
Blaze orange/pink clothing may be required during firearms seasons. Check Mississippi specific requirements.
Shooting Hours
Hunting is generally permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Check local variations.
Recommended Gear for Mississippi Hunting
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more
Mississippi Hunting License FAQ
How much does a hunting license cost in Mississippi?
A resident hunting license in Mississippi starts at $36.00. Non-resident licenses start at $300.00. Additional tags and endorsements may be required depending on the species you plan to hunt.
Do I need hunter education to hunt in Mississippi?
Yes, Mississippi requires hunter education for first-time buyers. Required for anyone born after January 1, 1972. Apprentice license available for one-time exemption. The state accepts hunter education certificates from other states.
Can non-residents hunt in Mississippi?
Yes, non-residents can purchase a Mississippi hunting license. The non-resident general hunting license costs $300.00. Some special tags or units may have limited non-resident allocations.
What is the deer season in Mississippi?
Archery: October 1 – November 21. Firearms: November 22 – February 1. Primitive Weapon: October 11 – November 21. Velvet Season: September 15 – September 30
Are there free hunting licenses in Mississippi?
Yes, Mississippi offers free or reduced-cost licenses for: senior (Mississippi residents aged 65 and older are exempt from most license fees); youth (Youth under 16 can hunt without a license when accompanied by a licensed adult).
Can I buy a Mississippi hunting license online?
Yes, you can purchase a Mississippi hunting license online through the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks website at https://www.mdwfp.com/license/. Licenses may also be available at authorized retail locations.