When Does Minnesota Deer Hunting Start? A Comprehensive Guide
Deer hunting is a beloved activity in Minnesota, with a rich tradition and a devoted following. However, determining when deer hunting starts can be a bit confusing. In this article, we’ll provide a clear understanding of the timing of Minnesota’s deer hunting seasons, crucial regulations, and tips to help you make the most of your hunting experience.
When Does MN Deer Hunting Start?
In Minnesota, the deer hunting season officially begins on a Saturday during the last week of August and runs until mid-to-late December. To be more precise, this typically falls on the final Saturday of the following periods:
- Early September: August 28-29 is usually the first Saturday marking the start of the Youth Deer Hunting Season.
- Mid-October: Dates range from October 17 to October 23, marked by the Firearms Deer Opener.
- Late-November: Typically takes place from November 21-22, when the Statewide Firearms Deer Season occurs.
**Key Dates in Minnesota Deer Hunting Seasons
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Youth Deer Hunting Season | Last week of August (Sat & Sun) | Youth licenses required; limited permits are available. |
| Mentored Youth Deer Hunting Day | 1st. Sat. of September-October | Youths supervised by licensed adults. Limited permits available. |
| Firearms Deer Opener (Mid-October) | Sat. in October-15-22 | Bag limits, gear restrictions and hunting hours apply. Check permit requirements. |
| Archery Season (1st Segment) | Oct 1-Nov 1 | No blaze orange required. Bag limit, gear restrictions, & hunting hours apply. |
| Statewide Firearms Deer Season | Late November-Early December | Normal hunting hours and bag limit apply. Blaze orange strongly recommended. |
**Which Minnesota Deer Hunting Season Affects You?
Before venturing onto the hunting grounds, know that Minnesota’s deer season is divided into two key periods:
- Any-Deer License Lottery: If you drew any-deer permits, prioritize your hunting activities during Early Archery, Mid-Early Season, Firearm, or Late-Seasoneither of Youth-Only: For youth deer hunters without permits, they must hunting with a licensed adult companion during the Mentored Youth Deer Hunting Weekend.
To Ensure a Safe and Fulfilled Hunting Experience
• Understanding the Regulations: Familiarize yourself with specific licensing requirements, permit availability (archery or firearms); and bag limits to assure a successful hunt.
• Gear Preparation: Suit up with blaze orange hunting attire, if not shooting with a gun. It’s crucial to blend, so wear it in some manner.
• Wildlife Management Plan: Knowledge of the land and vegetation is vital; it’ll aid in pinpointing white-tailed deer habitats near agricultural areas or wet areas.
**MN Deer License Options and Costs
| License Type | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Any-Deer Permit | Authorizes you to pursue either buck or doe throughout the season. | – Resident: $41 for a 3-day trip; $60 for lifetime. Non-Resident: $141 for 7-day trip. |
| Buck Permit: Restricts the hunter’s license to harvesting antlered deer. | Free (included in the Any-Deer Permits) or $40 (stand-alone) 3-day | |
| Doe Permit: Non-transferable: Used solely for taking female does. | – Resident: $20. Non-resident: $30-50 |
Error-Free Hunting Experiences from Planning to Field
• **Weather** | **Early**: Dress for cooler weather; October averages 42°F at sunrise. **Mid-winter**: Plan for warm-up and colder spells;
• **Equipment**: Invest **archery-specific gear**) and **.30 Cal. or higher caliber hand-loaded rifles**, to accurately tag your buck;
– **Binocular**, to spot movement at larger distances;
• **Vehicle Preparation**: Insure clear windshield, no debris from road trips;
•
– “Donuts and coffee are optional!”
**Tips for Maximum Deer Hunting Experience
• **Silence Yourself**: Move carefully to hide any noise.
• Monitor weather forecasts: Adjusted strategies for cold and hotter temperatures.
• Study Maps & Land Management:
• Wear blaze orange while in non-archery season in a group.
