Mississippi Bird Hunting

Seasons Span November 27 – March 7, 2026

State Drought Monitor – Upland hunting conditions are often highly dependent upon moisture for both habitat production and bird survival.

Season Dates

  • Bobwhite Quail
    • Season Dates: November 27, 2025 – March 7, 2026
    • Daily Bag Limit: 8
    • Possession Limit: Not explicitly stated, but typically three times the daily bag limit (24, based on standard hunting regulations)
  • Woodcock
    • Season Dates: December 18, 2025 – January 31, 2026
    • Daily Bag Limit: 3
    • Possession Limit: 9

Required Licenses and Costs

  • Resident Licenses:
    • Sportsman License: $45.00 (includes small game hunting, freshwater fishing, and other privileges)
    • Small Game/Freshwater Fishing License: $10.00
    • Processing Fee: $1.29 (additional agent fees may apply, typically $1.00)
    • Youth (under 16): Exempt from license requirement but can obtain a voluntary Exempt Under 16 license for $2.30
    • Senior (65+): Senior Exempt Lifetime license for $2.30
  • Non-Resident Licenses:
    • All Game License: $300.00
    • Small Game License: $95.00
    • 7-Day Small Game License: $38.00
    • Processing Fee: $3.00–$4.25 (depending on license type)
  • Additional Requirements:
    • Hunters pursuing migratory birds (e.g., doves, woodcock) must be H.I.P. certified.
    • A Wildlife Management Area User Permit ($15.00 for residents, $30.00 for non-residents) is required for hunting on WMAs.
    • Non-toxic shot is required for migratory game birds, and shotguns must be plugged to hold no more than three rounds for migratory birds.

Notes

  • Shooting hours for migratory game birds are from one-half hour before sunrise to sunset.
  • Always verify regulations with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) before hunting, as rules may change due to environmental or regulatory factors.
  • Landowner permission is required to hunt on private property.

For the most detailed and up-to-date information, visit the MDWFP website or the Mississippi Outdoor Digest.