November is the month that regular duck season starts in Missouri. While everyone else is working on the big holiday preparations, you’re gearing up for an excursion of your own. Duck hunting is a favorite pastime for many and starts sometime in November, depending on where you hunt.

Currently, the Canadian border is closed to Americans – even those with a passport. In fact, it is sure to remain closed throughout the coming duck hunting season, making it essential to go where you know you are able.

The Zones

Missouri has three hunting zones, North Zone, which includes parts of Clinton, Carroll, and Chariton, the season opens on that first Saturday in November, which is November 7 this year. It’s a full 60-day season and runs until the end of January 5th this year. In the Middle zone there is one split from November14th to 18th. During this time, you cannot hunt ducks. Lastly is the south Zone starting on November 26th and runs until November 29th with a one week split from the 30th of November to the 6th of December, after the 7th of December it reopens until January 31st 2021.

However, the splits are only one week and very early in the season, and most hunters use this time to repair any damaged gear and get things ready for the rest of the hunting season. It’s a great time to see what you’ve got and what you require more of. Plus, you can use the time to take pictures and post them on social media websites.

Though the duck-hunting season ends at the end of January, you may still continue hunting specklebelly geese up until February 6.

Permits

When you go duck hunting in Missouri, it’s important to bring your hunting gear with you. The state requires the correct permits to hunt waterfowl and for different seasons like the spring conservation order. For example, you need a Missouri small game license and Migratory Bird permit to hunt ducks and geese during the regular season; you will also need to have a Federal Duck Stamp.

If you plan to hunt snow geese after February 7th, you’re required to have the Spring Conservation Order Permit, as well but no other permits, tags or stamps are required.

Lodging

Many people work with outfitters who offer lodging to the customers who hunt on their property. That way, you don’t have to travel extensively to find good hotels and food before or after hunting all day. Often the cost of the lodging in included in the price of the hunt and guides are always included. Depending on the outfitter, you may get meals and drinks included but at a much higher cost per person.

Working with a hunting outfitter that offers lodging makes hunting a little easier because there’s less planning and preparations’ for you to do. Arrive at the designated time, and start the thrill of calling and decoying your birds. Know you have a warm place to sleep so that you can do it all over again the next day!

Equipment

When hunting ducks, you’re going to need a few things. Of course, you’re going to need clothing, and waders but you also require a shotgun and the correct ammunition. Most hunters also have duck calls but on a guided hunt the outfitter and guides supply all of the infield decoys and blinds that are required. A waterproof or water-resistant jacket, gloves and hat can also come in handy in case it rains or snows.