When is Minnesota Deer Hunting Season?
Deer hunting is a beloved tradition in Minnesota, with tens of thousands of hunters annually taking to the fields, forests, and woods of the North Star State. But before you grab your rifle and hit the great outdoors, you need to know when deer hunting season is in Minnesota.
Contents
Overview of Deer Hunting Seasons in Minnesota
Minnesota is divided into two deer licenses areas: the Northern Regulatory Region (NRR) and the Southern Regulatory Region (SRR). This division helps to manage the deer population and ensure healthy herds.
- The Northern Regulatory Region (NRR) includes 42 counties, with the city of Duluth and most of the North Shore.
- The Southern Regulatory Region (SRR) includes 38 counties, stretching from the Twin Cities area to the Iowa border.
Archery Deer Hunting Season
Archery season is typically the first chance for deer hunters to bag a buck. The seasons vary by region:
Northern Regulatory Region (NRR)
- Early bow season: Late September to early October (7 to 10 days)
- Monday, Saturday, and Sunday, with limits on hunting days
- No deer can be harvested during the early season
- Late bow season: Late October to late November (3 to 4 weeks)
- Monday, Saturday, and Sunday, with limits on hunting days
- No antlerless deer can be harvested during the late season
Southern Regulatory Region (SRR)
- Early bow season: Late September to early October (7 to 10 days)
- Monday, Saturday, and Sunday, with limits on hunting days
- No deer can be harvested during the early season
- Late bow season: Late October to mid-November (2 weeks)
- Monday, Saturday, and Sunday, with limits on hunting days
- No antlerless deer can be harvested during the late season
Rifle Deer Hunting Season
Rifle deer hunting season is the most popular and longest deer hunting season in Minnesota. The season varies by region:
Northern Regulatory Region (NRR)
- Antlerless deer season: Early November to mid-November (5 days)
- Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday, with limits on hunting days
- Harvesting does and fawns is the primary goal of this season
- 6-Point Buck Season: Mid-November to late November (3 weeks)
- Monday, Saturday, and Sunday, with limits on hunting days
- Only deer with 6 points or more on at least one antler can be harvested
- Main Season: Late November to late December (4-5 weeks)
- Monday, Saturday, and Sunday, with limits on hunting days
- Harvesting both antlered and antlerless deer is allowed
Southern Regulatory Region (SRR)
- Antlerless deer season: Early November to mid-November (5 days)
- Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday, with limits on hunting days
- Harvesting does and fawns is the primary goal of this season
- 6-Point Buck Season: Mid-November to late November (2 weeks)
- Monday, Saturday, and Sunday, with limits on hunting days
- Only deer with 6 points or more on at least one antler can be harvested
- Main Season: Late November to mid-December (3 weeks)
- Monday, Saturday, and Sunday, with limits on hunting days
- Harvesting both antlered and antlerless deer is allowed
Crossbow Deer Hunting Season
Crossbow season is a short but exciting opportunity for archery hunters to take their favorite firearms out for a spin. The season takes place:
Northern and Southern Regulatory Regions
- Late October to mid-December (5-6 weeks)
- Saturday and Sunday, with some weekday hunting days
- Harvesting both antlered and antlerless deer is allowed
- Hunters can only use crossbows with certain specifications (e.g., minimum arrow velocity)
Important Dates and Reminders
- Deer hunting lottery applications typically open in April
- License availability is crucial, so plan ahead!
- Hunters must follow deer hunting regulations, including seasons, bag limits, and harvest restrictions
- Antlered deer can be harvested only during the appropriate seasons
- Antlerless deer can be harvested during designated seasons and when accompanied by an antlered deer
- Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website for up-to-date information on deer hunting seasons, rules, and regulations
As you prepare for your next deer hunting adventure in Minnesota, remember to:
• Check the Minnesota DNR website for updates on regulations, seasons, and available licenses
• Familiarize yourself with local restrictions and rules
• Choose the right equipment and ammunition for your hunt
• Respect other hunters, farmers, and private property rights
• Always follow ethical hunting practices and maintain safety standards
Conclusion
Minnesota deer hunting season can be an exciting and memorable experience. Understanding the specific seasons, rules, and regulations for your region can help you make the most of your hunt. Before heading out, be sure to check the Minnesota DNR website for the most up-to-date information, and plan ahead to make your hunting trip a successful one.
