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 “
Tag Archives: deer
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”
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”
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”
Rarely orphaned, wild babies don’t need human help
Every spring the state Department of Conservation sends a reminder to “leave wildlife wild” because the advice is so important for the newborns and hatchlings that sometimes end up a little too close to home. I had two encounters last week. A baby robin found its way into the garage, then couldn’t find its wayContinue reading “Rarely orphaned, wild babies don’t need human help”
Homemade sausage completes hunter’s work with help from friends
The old saying claims that hunting is all fun and games until you pull the trigger, that’s when the work begins. I take pride in being a Jack-of-no-trades, do-it-yourselfer for many things, and I literally get up to my elbows in deer after the shot. This year I didn’t finish the job until late inContinue reading “Homemade sausage completes hunter’s work with help from friends”
Mandatory hunter education has changed with the times
While it may be too soon to call it waxing nostalgic, I have been thinking about the history of hunter education in Missouri. It was not that long ago that this time of year would present a calendar full of opportunities for new hunters to earn their certification. Jefferson College offered the classes as partContinue reading “Mandatory hunter education has changed with the times”
Antlerless deer season allows hunters to put management skills to work
Hunters who believe that we are the best deer management tool available get their first chance to prove the point this weekend. When the early portion of the antlerless hunting season opens on Friday, Oct. 10, hunters have three days to make a positive difference in many proven ways. Holding out hope for the once-in-a-lifetime,Continue reading “Antlerless deer season allows hunters to put management skills to work”
Deer management open house scheduled in Eureka
The ability of humans to communicate is not unique among animal species. We may be the most advanced at the trick, but in some instances, we could be the worst at it. When I hear song birds singing, crickets chirping, tree frogs trilling, or bull elk bugling, I feel confident that others of their kindContinue reading “Deer management open house scheduled in Eureka”
Don't Call Me Outdoor John 