Mississippi Opens WMA Draw Hunt Applications for Deer, Dove, Rabbit, and Early Teal

Mississippi hunters have a deadline coming fast. Applications are open for Wildlife Management Area draw hunts for deer, dove, rabbit, and early teal, with the current application window running July 15 through August 15, 2026. Waterfowl draw applications open later, from October 1 through October 15.

This is the kind of public-land opportunity hunters need to treat seriously. WMAs spread access across the state, but draw systems only work if people pay attention, apply on time, and show up ready to hunt legally when they get picked.

To apply for a Mississippi WMA draw hunt, hunters need a current valid WMA User Permit, lifetime hunting license, or a youth, senior, or disabled exempt license. That requirement applies across the board, including hunters under 16, over 65, and disabled hunters.

The available draw categories listed for this window are deer, dove, rabbit, and early teal. That is a good mix of big game, small game, wingshooting, and waterfowl opportunity on public ground. Not every hunter has private land, a lease, or a family farm. Public wildlife areas matter because they keep hunting from becoming a rich man’s game.

If you want a seat at the table, put in before August 15. Read the rules, know the WMA-specific regulations, and do it right. Access is worth defending, but it is also worth using.