MDC reminds hunters of 2026 coyote season rule changes

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., (KBSI) — The Missouri Department of Conservation is reminding hunters of regulation changes that expand the use of artificial light and other equipment during the 2026 coyote hunting season.

Changes approved by the Missouri Conservation Commission in fall 2025 allow hunters to use artificial light, night vision and thermal imagery equipment from Jan. 1 through Sept. 30, excluding the prescribed spring turkey hunting season. The changes took effect Jan. 1, 2026.

During the extended period, coyotes may not be chased, pursued or taken during daylight hours from April 1 through the day before the start of the spring turkey hunting season.

Coyotes may be taken by hunting, and pelts and carcasses may be possessed, transported and sold in any number throughout the year, except as otherwise provided in the Wildlife Code of Missouri.

Special method restrictions apply during spring turkey season, elk season and deer season. Hunters are encouraged to review allowed and prohibited methods and to contact local MDC staff with questions regarding conservation area regulations and the Wildlife Code.

A complete list of Missouri hunting seasons and additional regulation details are available through MDC.