Missouri Muzzleloader Deer Season 2026-27
Opens in 90 daysMissouri's alternative-methods (muzzleloader) portion of firearms season runs December 26, 2026 through January 5, 2027.
Zones & dates
- Opens in 90 days
Statewide
Firearms - alternative methods (muzzleloader etc.)
- Opens
- December 26, 2026
- Closes
- January 5, 2027
- Bag limit
- See official regulations for bag limits.
Legal equipment
Missouri's muzzleloader season is restricted to single-shot, front-loading muzzleloading firearms. Ignition type (flintlock vs. percussion/inline), sight and optic allowances, and any minimum caliber requirements are set by the wildlife agency and can differ from the archery or firearm seasons. Confirm current equipment rules with Missouri's wildlife agency before you hunt.
Tags and antlerless rules during muzzleloader season
Tag allowances and antlerless-only windows vary by zone and by segment within Missouri's deer season — some of the dates in the table above are antlerless-only, while others allow either sex. Review each zone row for its specific rules, and confirm current tag limits, antler-point restrictions, and any special antlerless permits required for the muzzleloader season with Missouri's wildlife agency.
How the muzzleloader portion overlaps other seasons
Missouri groups muzzleloaders into an “alternative methods” portion of firearms season, running December 26 – January 5 — after archery segment two, the November rifle portion, and the late antlerless firearms window have all closed.
What changed for 2026-27
Season dates are set annually by Missouri's wildlife agency and can shift from year to year based on herd surveys, weather, and management goals. The dates above reflect the official 2026–27 season as published by the Missouri wildlife agency; check the source link above for any addenda issued after publication, and always reverify before you hunt.
Frequently asked questions
The alternative-methods portion runs December 26, 2026 through January 5, 2027.
Regulations change every year and can vary by county or unit. Hunting Season by State is a reference tool, not a substitute for the official regulation book — always verify dates, zones, and bag limits with the state wildlife agency before you hunt.