Antler-point restrictions have been eliminated from state deer hunting regulations for the upcoming year. I have never cared for the rule, so I am not sad to see it gone. However, the cause of its demise outweighs any joy I might feel for finally getting my way. Managing the potential spread of chronic wasting diseaseContinue reading “Deer hunting changes respond to public opinion, CWD concerns “
Author Archives: John J. Winkelman
Waterfowl hunting seasons target teal first
Four months of deer hunting season may seem like an eternity, but compared to opportunities for waterfowl shooters, the quest-for-venison calendar looks compact. Teal hunting opens in early September, and the light goose conservation order allows harvest until April 30, 2027, providing nearly eight months of shotgun swinging. Hunters may take up to six blue,Continue reading “Waterfowl hunting seasons target teal first”
Limited hunter education classes fill quickly as fall arrives
It’s back-to-school week across Missouri, and young hunters who hope to take to the field this fall must register for one more classroom assignment before they can get a permit to hunt on their own. Hunter Education certification once required an eight-hour classroom commitment for everyone, but now it only asks those ages 11 toContinue reading “Limited hunter education classes fill quickly as fall arrives”
Dove season is first for fall hunting opportunities
When most people think about migratory birds and waterfowl, the colorful plumage and royal presence of ducks and geese come to mind, but the gray, black, and white mourning dove graces the cover of this year’s hunting digest from the state Department of Conservation. Only minor adjustments have been made to the regulations for theContinue reading “Dove season is first for fall hunting opportunities”
Fall food plot planting programs offer answers for deer hunters
A sweltering summer day seems like a splendid time to consider the forecast for the first frost of fall. That date is an important consideration for those planning on planting a food plot of forage for deer and other animals this autumn. Because Missouri is about 300 miles from top to bottom, the average firstContinue reading “Fall food plot planting programs offer answers for deer hunters”
Nature center celebrates 35 years with passport program
Powder Valley Nature Center celebrates its 35th anniversary this year. It would be disingenuous for me to say, I can’t believe it’s been around that long, because coincidentally, we have a daughter who is 35 years old this year, and she has been enjoying the “special place” since she was very little. The state DepartmentContinue reading “Nature center celebrates 35 years with passport program”
Family fishing derby brings back big smile memories
After more than 35 years of writing about hunting, fishing and the outdoors, a few topics are bound to repeat themselves. Maybe the best possible scenario for that fact played itself out earlier this month at a fishing outing with my grand nephews, young cousins, and a few of their friends. While I worked toContinue reading “Family fishing derby brings back big smile memories”
State invites comments on proposed camping fees at conservation areas
For decades the state Department of Conservation has offered free primitive camping at more than 300 properties, but that situation is likely going to change beginning next year. That sweet situation will come to an end for one simple reason: people. The implementation of fees is not about making money for the agency; the proposedContinue reading “State invites comments on proposed camping fees at conservation areas”
Annual open archery tournament supports state conservation efforts
For those who are not counting down the days until archery deer hunting season opens in Missouri, the number is now under two months. July and August are long months, and the weather makes you yearn for fall, but now is the time to begin preparations. The most important elements are practice, practice and practice.Continue reading “Annual open archery tournament supports state conservation efforts”
Managed deer hunt application period now open
Jefferson County residents hoping to participate in the state’s managed deer hunting program this fall have many things to think about before applying for their best opportunity. The most important consideration is timing. The online application process is only available this month. Every year the state Department of Conservation program offers hunts on public landsContinue reading “Managed deer hunt application period now open”
Don't Call Me Outdoor John 