WMA Draw Hunts

What is a Draw Hunt?

WMA Draw Hunts are limited-entry hunting opportunities provided on Mississippi’s Wildlife Management Areas to manage hunter numbers, improve hunt quality, and sustain wildlife populations. Hunters apply online before a set deadline, and winners are selected in a randomized lottery to receive a permit for specific dates and locations. These controlled hunts help the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) balance conservation goals with providing fair access to the state’s public hunting lands.

License Requirements: 

All hunters (including under 16, over 65, and handicap) applying for a WMA draw hunt must possess a CURRENT VALID WMA PERMIT, LIFETIME HUNTING LICENSE or a YOUTH/SENIOR EXEMPT LICENSE to apply for a WMA Draw Hunt

Application Periods

• Turkey - February 21st to February 28th
• Deer - August 1st to August 31st
• Early Teal - August 1st to August 15th
• Rabbit - August 1st to August 31st
• Dove - August 1st to August 15th
• Youth Dove - August 1st to August 15th
• Waterfowl (All Draw Periods) - October 1 - October 15

WMA Draw Hunt Stats

The following summary of WMA draw hunts for recent hunting seasons has been compiled using actual numbers of applications and available hunting opportunities. The total number of available draw hunt opportunities are determined on a year-to-year basis by Wildlife Bureau biologists based upon numerous factors including but not limited to: hunter participation, the geography and topography of a given WMA, habitat conditions, observed game populations, and other factors which impact habitat and wildlife management decisions.