Gun season for deer starts Saturday


Thursday, November 16, 2006
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Gun season for deer starts Saturday

Saturday, November 18, marks the beginning of the gun season for deer in Mississippi.

The greatly anticipated opening weekend is expected to attract thousands of deer hunters, according to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. The season will continue in some form until January 31, 2007 in Zone I, and until February 15, 2007 in Zone II. Consult the Outdoor Digest or visit www.mdwfp.com for specific season dates in each zone.

“This season promises to be one of the best for hunters,” said Larry Castle, director of the Wildlife Bureau at MDWFP. “The statewide drought has reduced the available mast crop, so deer will naturally be moving more to find food. This on the heels of two mild winters that caused lower than normal harvests means more deer for hunters to see.”

Hunters are reminded that a proper hunting license is required for all persons between the ages of 16 and 65. Those utilizing one of the state’s wildlife management areas will also need to purchase the annual WMA permit. This $15 permit allows hunters to use any WMA in the state.

“The point-of-sale locations located across the state have seen a brisk business since hunting seasons began,” said Michael Bolden, Director of Business Services. “But hunters are reminded they can purchase a license online by visiting the website or by calling-1-800-GO-HUNT.”

New for the 2006-07 season is an apprentice license, which allows a new hunter, born after January 1, 1972, to purchase a one-time license without the mandatory hunter education requirement.

The apprentice license holder must be accompanied by a licensed or exempt resident hunter at least 21 years of age when hunting. Completion of an approved hunter education program is necessary for subsequent hunting license purchases.

Deer hunters are reminded that state law requires the wearing of 500-square inches of unbroken hunter orange when hunting. Hunters using elevated stands are encouraged to use safety devices to prevent falls. Target identification is also an important aspect of hunter safety. Identify your target before pointing or aiming a weapon.

Report game violations to 1-800-BE SMART.

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