CLEVELAND — Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks Commissioners voted Thursday to extend the 2024-25 deer season to February 2, 2025. The vote was unanimous.

The commission is able to make the vote thanks to state statute which gives them the authority to extend the season if it ends on a Friday to 30 minutes after sunset that Sunday.

It is important to note the extension will apply only to private lands in the delta, north-central and hills deer management units.

Commissioner Gary Rhodes made the motion which was seconded by commissioner William Mounger. It passed 5-0. Readers should note this vote only applies to the 2025 season. 

A bill introduced in the Mississippi Legislature would extend the open season for bobwhite quail and wild turkeys in a similar fashion if passed. Sen. Walter Michel authored SB2276 to extend the seasons if they end on a Friday to close on the following Sunday 30 minutes after sunset. His bill would do the same for deer, rabbit, squirrel and raccoon seasons if passed. 

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