MO hunters, anglers ready for squirrel and black bass season

(KOAM) - As nature enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the warmth of summer, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has issued a reminder that the squirrel and black bass hunting and angling seasons are set to commence this Saturday, May 25, 2024.

Squirrel Season:

For those eyeing the eastern gray and fox squirrels, the hunting season spans from May 25 through February 15, 2025. Hunters can utilize a range of methods including shotguns, rifles, archery equipment, slingshots, or atlatls. Moreover, cage-style traps are permitted during the hunting season, provided hunters possess a valid Small Game Hunting permit. It's imperative that these traps are labeled with the hunter's full name and address or Conservation Number, attended daily, and feature an opening no larger than 144 square inches.

The daily limit for hunting, including via cage-style traps, is capped at 10, with a possession limit of 20. Hunters must ensure they possess a valid permit for hunting small game or are exempt.

For those seeking more information on squirrel hunting and trapping, MDC offers comprehensive guidelines in their 2024 Summary of Missouri Hunting and Trapping Regulations, accessible online. Additionally, for culinary adventurers, a selection of squirrel recipes awaits exploration on the MDC website.

Black Bass Angling Season:

Anglers keen on catching black bass varieties such as largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted/Kentucky bass, are in for a treat as the season extends from May 25 through February 28, 2025. While black bass can be found statewide, it's essential to note that there are closed seasons in various streams south of the Missouri River. However, anglers can legally catch and release black bass throughout the year across Missouri, with legal-sized bass permissible for retention year-round from both impoundments and streams without a closed season.

In most state waters, the daily limit on black bass stands at six, with fish taken from rivers and streams typically required to be at least 12 inches long. Additional regulations may apply to specific waters or areas, so anglers are encouraged to stay informed.

To participate in black bass angling, anglers must possess a valid fishing permit or qualify for exemption.

With the anticipation mounting for these seasonal openings, hunters and anglers alike are gearing up to make the most of Missouri's rich outdoor opportunities.

Find more information on bass fishing in MDC's 2024 Summary of Missouri Fishing Regulations , available where permits are sold, or online.

Find tips from MDC on cooking fish .

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