As an avid outdoorsman in Missouri, you know that having the right permits is essential for enjoying the state’s abundant fishing and hunting opportunities. With the recent price adjustments announced by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) for 2024, it’s crucial to understand the costs associated with obtaining a resident hunting and fishing license. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various permit options available to Missouri residents, their respective prices, and the privileges they offer.
Resident Fishing Permits
For Missouri residents who love to fish, there are several permit options to choose from, each with its own set of privileges and price point.
- Daily Fishing Permit: $8.00
- Annual Fishing License: $12.00
- Trout Permit (Age 16 and older): $10.00
- White River Border Lakes License (also available for Arkansas residents): $10.00
These permits allow you to fish for a variety of species, including trout, in designated areas across the state. The Trout Permit is required for winter fishing in trout parks and year-round fishing in Lake Taneycomo upstream from the U.S. Highway 65 bridge.
Lifetime Conservation Partner (Hunting and Fishing) Permits
For those looking for a long-term investment in their outdoor pursuits, Missouri offers Lifetime Conservation Partner (Hunting and Fishing) Permits. These permits provide a lifetime of hunting and fishing privileges, with prices varying based on the purchaser’s age.
| Age Group | Price |
|---|---|
| Youth (0-15) | $591.00 |
| Age 16-29 | $859.00 |
| Age 30-39 | $752.00 |
| Age 40-59 | $644.00 |
| Age 60-64 | $75.00 |
These permits carry the same privileges as the Resident Fishing Permit and the Trout Permit, making them an attractive option for those who plan to fish regularly throughout their lives.
Lifetime Fishing Permits
For those who prefer to focus solely on fishing, Missouri offers Lifetime Fishing Permits. These permits provide a lifetime of fishing privileges, with prices varying based on the purchaser’s age.
| Age Group | Price |
|---|---|
| Youth (0-15) | $275.00 |
| Age 16-29 | $400.00 |
| Age 30-39 | $350.00 |
| Age 40-59 | $300.00 |
| Age 60-64 | $35.00 |
These permits allow you to fish for a variety of species in designated areas across the state, without the need for additional permits.
Special Permits
In addition to the standard fishing permits, Missouri offers a few special permits for specific situations.
- National Guard and Reserve Service Small Game Hunting and Fishing Permit: $5.00
- White River Border Lake Permit (available for residents and resident landowners): $10.00
The National Guard and Reserve Service Small Game Hunting and Fishing Permit is available to Missouri residents who are currently or have been mobilized and serving on full-time active military duty in the National Guard (federal status) or reserve forces of the United States within the last 12 months. The White River Border Lake Permit allows Missouri and Arkansas residents to fish in the impounded waters of Bull Shoals, Norfork, and Table Rock lakes without purchasing a Nonresident Fishing Permit.
Permit Price Adjustments for 2024
In 2024, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has proposed modest and gradual adjustments to permit prices to keep pace with rising costs of goods and services. These price adjustments aim to maintain the state’s conservation efforts while still offering affordable options for Missouri residents.
Some of the notable price changes for 2024 include:
- Daily Fishing Permit: $8.00 to $9.00
- Trout Permit: $10.00 to $12.00
- Youth Trout Permit: $5.00 to $6.00
Despite these adjustments, Missouri’s permit prices remain competitive compared to surrounding states.
Purchasing Permits
Obtaining a Missouri resident hunting and fishing license is a straightforward process. You can purchase permits through various channels:
- Online: Visit the MDC website or download the free MO Fishing app to purchase permits electronically.
- In person: Visit your local Department of Conservation office, licensed vendors, or stores that sell hunting and fishing equipment.
- Phone: Call 800-392-4115 to purchase permits over the phone, with a $1 surcharge.
Some special permits, such as the Resident Lifetime Conservation Partner (Hunting and Fishing) Permit and the Resident National Guard and Reserve Service Small Game Hunting and Fishing Permit, are not available online or from vendors. These permits require a special application to be submitted to the Missouri Department of Conservation.
In conclusion, Missouri offers a variety of hunting and fishing permit options for residents, each with its own set of privileges and price point. Whether you prefer daily fishing, annual licenses, or lifetime permits, there’s an option that caters to your outdoor needs. With the recent price adjustments for 2024, it’s essential to stay informed about the costs associated with obtaining a resident hunting and fishing license in Missouri. By understanding these permit options and purchasing them through the appropriate channels, you can enjoy the state’s abundant fishing and hunting opportunities to the fullest.