Hunting & Fishing
Hunter education & getting started
New to hunting? Here's the one course most new hunters need, when it's actually required, the shortcut that lets you hunt with a mentor while you learn — and the good news that fishing needs no course at all.
When it's required
Who needs hunter education
Most people born on or after January 1, 1967 must complete hunter education before they buy a firearms hunting permit or hunt with firearms on their own — unless they're exempt or using an Apprentice Authorization. It's mainly a firearms-permit requirement; it's not a blanket prerequisite for every kind of archery hunting.
The course
Two parts, done once
The course has two parts: a knowledge portion (classroom, self-study, or a fully online option for Missouri residents 16 and up) plus a hands-on skills and field session. You do it once.
The shortcut for new hunters
Not certified yet? Hunt with a mentor
You don't have to finish hunter education before you ever go. The Apprentice Hunter Authorization lets a new hunter buy hunting permits and hunt in the immediate presence of a qualified adult mentor while they work toward certification. The full how-it-works — what it costs and how many times you can buy it — is on the licenses & permits page.
A few more details
Reciprocity, youth & bowhunting
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Hunting another state
Missouri's certification is widely recognized through interstate reciprocity — but if you're hunting another state, check that state's rule before you go rather than assuming it's honored everywhere.
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Youth
The youth permit exemption applies to both resident and nonresident youth 15 and under.
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Bowhunter education
Bowhunter education is offered and recommended, but not required.
Good news for anglers
No course needed to fish
Fishing needs no course at all. And MDC's free Discover Nature programs, nature centers, and beginner clinics are a great, hands-on way to start either pursuit.
Where to go next
Want hands-on time with a firearm before the field session? See Target Shooting for safe firearm-handling practice. And when you're ready to go deeper on seasons, species, and the woods, the Hunting guide takes it from here.
Always check before you go
Missouri Porch explains the system; the Wildlife Code is the law.
Last checked: 2026-06-18. Missouri Porch explains how the system works. The Wildlife Code of Missouri and applicable federal law are the authority; the current MDC summaries, species pages, and posted area rules are the practical guide — and they can change. Always check your species, season, water, and location before you go.
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