Time to Renew Hunting & Fishing Permits

Many hunting and fishing permits expire at the end of February, including 2013 permits for small game, fishing, trout fishing and combination hunting and fishing permits. The Missouri Department of Conservation reminds hunters and anglers that now is the time to renew permits for 2014.

Buying permits is easy, with three options. First is the traditional method of purchasing from a local permit vendor, such as a sporting goods or convenience store or bait shop.

The second option is visiting mdc.mo.gov and clicking on “Buy Permits.” This e-Permits option lets hunters, trappers and anglers buy permits at home or on any computer and print them immediately. Sport-fishing and hunting permits are available through e-Permits, along with trapping permits and the Apprentice Hunter Authorization.

Advantages to e-Permits include the ability to save them on a computer, smart phone, or removable memory device so you can print replacements if permits are lost or destroyed. Permits may not be shared, and additional copies of a permit do not provide additional valid permits for the buyer or others to use.

The third option is purchasing by toll-free phone call to 800-392-4115. Be sure to allow up to 10 days for mail delivery with this option.

Commercial permits and lifetime permits can be purchased only through MDC’s Central Office by calling 573-751-4115.

Missouri residents pay $12 for an annual fishing permit. Missouri’s Resident Any-Deer Permit is $17.

LIFETIME OPTION

Resident Lifetime Small Game Hunting, Fishing, or Resident Lifetime Conservation Partner permits offer the ultimate in permit-buying value and convenience. A one-time purchase provides the same privileges as annual resident fishing, trout, small-game hunting, migratory bird hunting and conservation order permits for the buyer’s life.

The cost of these permits is on a sliding scale based on the buyer’s age. The cost drops dramatically for buyers age 60 to 65, when lifetime hunting or fishing permits cost only $35. At age 60, you can get a Lifetime Conservation Partner Permit for $70.  Those same privileges would cost much more if you bought the corresponding annual permits from age 60 through 65. After age 65 Missouri resident hunters and anglers become exempt from some permit requirements.

Lifetime permit buyers get durable plastic cards, like credit cards, to carry in the field. They also receive mail updates about regulation changes and other information that most outdoors people pick up when they visit permit vendors annually.