Introduction to Raccoon Hunting
Raccoon hunting, also known as coon hunting, is a beloved tradition among hunters in Mississippi, particularly on private land and within hunting clubs. To embark on this thrilling pursuit, hunters must secure a hunting license and familiarize themselves with the specific regulations that govern coon hunting. The hills deer management units in Mississippi provide excellent opportunities for coon hunters to track their quarry. Utilizing coon dogs to track and tree raccoons adds an exciting and challenging element to the hunt. It’s crucial for hunters to be aware of the season dates and bag limits for raccoons, as well as the regulations concerning antlered buck deer and other game species. This ensures a responsible and enjoyable hunting experience.
Bottomland Timber and Night Tracks
The Mississippi Delta is raccoon country. With its thick bottomland woods, winding bayous, and patchy farmland edges, the Delta offers an ideal setting for running raccoons after dark. This region is steeped in tradition, where hunters rely on time-tested methods and the deep bark of a seasoned dog to tell them a coon is treed. In Mississippi, raccoon hunting isn’t just a hobby—it’s part of the rhythm of rural life. The camaraderie among hunters and the fun of sharing personal experiences during these trips make the outings even more memorable.
The hunt usually begins after sundown, when the air cools and the raccoons begin to stir. Whether hunting with a single dog or a full pack, working the woods at night under a canopy of hardwoods is one of the most rewarding ways to spend time in the field.
Where Raccoons Travel in the Delta
In the flat expanses of the Delta, raccoons favor areas with year-round water and plenty of cover. Cypress sloughs, hardwood ridges, drainage ditches, and soybean field edges all hold raccoon activity. These animals move predictably between feeding areas and den sites, often following old levees, fence lines, or timber breaks.
The Delta is also home to a variety of birds and fish, making it crucial to protect these species under various wildlife protection laws.
Look for signs like muddy tracks near water holes, claw marks on trees, and droppings on field borders. If you find hollow logs, tree cavities, or thickets with soft ground nearby, you’ve likely found a place worth turning a dog loose.
Hunting at Night with Dogs
Hunting raccoons with dogs is a blend of skill, patience, and listening. After casting the dog into likely cover, the real work begins. Hunters listen for the tone changes in the dog’s bark—track barks while trailing and steady treed barks once the raccoon is located.
A typical night hunt involves walking levees, logging roads, or edges of bottomland woods, giving dogs the chance to strike scent. Various game animals, including raccoons, can be hunted in the Delta, showcasing the region's vast opportunities for hunting different species. Dogs will follow the raccoon’s trail through water, brush, and woods until it takes to a tree. At that point, hunters move in to shine the tree and confirm the raccoon’s presence.
A handheld light or headlamp with a focused beam is critical. Scan slowly from the base of the tree upward, catching the shine of an eye tucked in the limbs. Some hunters use squall calls to coax the raccoon to move or expose itself.
Productive Areas and Access
Mississippi’s Delta counties offer private and public land opportunities. Wildlife management areas with hardwood draws and lowland creeks can be especially productive. Long stretches of timber between ag fields are also prime for raccoons and dog work.
Look for permission-based properties with water features and minimal human disturbance. Old homesteads, fencerows, and patch woods near river edges tend to see consistent raccoon traffic. Bring a mapping tool to track where your dogs run and keep orientation in the thick cover.
Gear for the Delta Woods
A quality coonhound is the cornerstone of the hunt. Beyond that, you’ll need a headlamp with a good spotlight, a handheld GPS tracker for the dog, durable boots, and layered clothing for the cool, damp night air.
A .22 rifle is the traditional tool for taking treed raccoons. Carry spare batteries, bug spray, water, and a light jacket in your pack. A small folding chair or cushion is handy for those longer waits when the dog is trailing deep in the timber. The excitement surrounding the hunting season for bobwhite quail and other small game species adds to the overall anticipation for sportsmen.
Staying quiet and letting the dog work is key. Know the landscape and keep your ears open for changes in bark and direction.
Seasonal Considerations
The hunting season for raccoons in Mississippi generally spans the fall and winter months, with specific season dates and bag limits varying by region and wildlife management area. Coon hunters must pay close attention to these regulations, as well as any special seasons or permits required for hunting on national forests, state and federal lands, or private property. The spring season also offers excellent opportunities for squirrel hunting and other small game activities. Additionally, active military waterfowl days and youth hunting days provide unique chances for young hunters to engage in the sport. Hunters should also be mindful of the regulations regarding light geese and other waterfowl, including the bag limits and possession limits for these species, to ensure compliance and conservation.
Licensing and Legal Considerations
Raccoons are classified as furbearers in Mississippi. A hunting license is required, and night hunting with dogs is allowed during open season. Specific dates vary, so check with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.
Lights are legal for raccoon hunting at night, and hunting with dogs is a longstanding tradition. Always check local rules, especially if hunting public land, and be sure you have landowner permission if on private ground. It is unlawful for any person to hunt without proper conditions or possess illegal weapons, emphasizing the responsibilities and restrictions placed on individuals participating in outdoor activities.
Safety Precautions
Safety is paramount when hunting raccoons or any other game species. Hunters should always wear hip boots and other protective gear, especially when navigating wet or rugged terrains like the Mississippi River region or the Holly Springs National Forest. A special permit may be required for hunting on certain public lands or within specific management zones. It’s also essential to be aware of the regulations regarding the use of dogs and other hunting equipment, as well as any restrictions on night hunting or specific areas. Paying close attention to weather conditions and any advisories issued by authorities can help ensure a safe and successful hunt.
Tips for Successful Hunts
To achieve success in raccoon hunting, hunters should have a solid understanding of raccoon behavior and habits. Raccoons are typically found in areas with abundant food and water, such as near streams, rivers, or lakes. Using coon dogs to track and tree raccoons is highly effective, and hunters should be prepared to hunt in various terrains and weather conditions. Identifying legal bucks, such as those with a longer beard, and understanding the regulations regarding the possession and transportation of harvested game are also crucial. Both non-residents and residents should familiarize themselves with the hunting laws in Mississippi, including those related to hunting on public lands, private property, and wildlife management areas. By following these tips and adhering to regulations and safety precautions, hunters can enjoy a rewarding and successful raccoon hunting experience in Mississippi.
Why Mississippi’s Delta Hunts Stand Out
There’s something about standing in the woods with a dog echoing in the distance, boots in the mud, and a beam of light cutting through the trees. In Mississippi’s Delta, raccoon hunting is more than just a sport—it’s a connection to the land, to family, and to the hunting culture passed down through generations.
Understanding the specific season dates and regulations for different management zones and regions like north central Mississippi is crucial for a successful hunt.
The land is rich, the nights are still, and the chase is always worth the effort. It’s a kind of hunt that leaves stories behind.
FAQs
When is raccoon season in Mississippi?
Raccoon season typically opens in fall and runs through late winter. Always confirm the exact dates with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.
Additionally, the quail hunting season closes earlier, but hunters often find success with other small game during this period.
Can I use dogs to hunt raccoons?
Yes, hunting raccoons with dogs is legal and widely practiced throughout Mississippi, especially in the Delta region.
Do I need a special license?
A general hunting license is required. Additional permits may be needed for certain public lands.
Can I use lights while hunting raccoons?
Yes, lights are permitted for raccoon hunting at night in Mississippi. Check for any equipment restrictions depending on the location.
Where should I look for raccoons?
Focus on wooded creek bottoms, field edges, and areas near consistent water sources with nearby cover and denning habitat.
In addition to raccoons, the Delta is home to a variety of game animals, including white-tailed deer, thanks to effective forest management practices.