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Hunting in Minnesota
Minnesota Hunting at Glance
Hunting in Minnesota is a favorite pastime thanks to the state’s diverse landscape and abundance of wildlife. There are plenty of places to hunt for small game such as rabbits and squirrels, as well as large game such as deer and moose. The state is also home to a large number of lakes, making it a magnet for both animals and hunters alike.
The state has a variety of wildlife, including deer, moose, bear, and small game. There are also many different types of hunting available, such as rifle hunting, shotgun hunting, and archery hunting.
Minnesota has strict regulations when it comes to hunting. All hunters must have a valid license and follow all safety regulations. In addition, hunters must respect private property rights and only hunt on land that they have permission to hunt on.
Minnesota ranks #14 in the nation for hunting license per capita and has a strong hunting culture with over 9.7% of the population classified as registered hunters.
Key Insights
- Hunting in Minnesota is a popular activity due to the diverse landscape and abundance of wildlife, including small game like rabbits and squirrels and large game like deer and moose.
- There are various types of hunting available in Minnesota, such as rifle hunting, shotgun hunting, and archery hunting.
- Minnesota has strict regulations for hunting, including the requirement for a valid license and following all safety regulations, as well as respecting private property rights.
- The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is a helpful resource for information on hunting seasons and requirements, including tag and bag limits.
- Deer hunting is the most common type of hunting in Minnesota, but other popular types of big game include moose, bear, and elk.
Table of Contents
Hunters (Based on Hunting Licenses)
| Population: | 5,706,494 |
|---|---|
| Hunters | 553,530 |
| Hunter % | 9.70% |
| Hunters Rank | 14 |
The state of Minnesota is predominantly private land and only 16% of the total acres could be considred huntable public land. Minnesota ranks #16 overall in acres of public huntable land.
Land Types (Acres)
| Acres | % | Rank | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | 50,954,900 | ||
| Huntable Public | 8,217,000 | 16.13% | 16 |
| Private Land | 41,274,080 | 81.00% | 34 |
| Tribal Land | 728,800 | 1.43% | 10 |
Minnesota ranks #34 for the percentage of private land vs total acres and number 10 in terms of acres of tribal land.
Minnesota Hunting Seasons & Requirements
For the most accurate information on Minnesota Hunting Seasons, along with the state’s requirements for tag and bag limits, it’s a good idea to check with the Minnesota DNR. We’ve provided their contact information below, along with links to helpful resources, including licensing.
Minnesota DNR
500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155-4040
- (800) 657-3929
Popular Game to Hunt in Minnesota
The most common type of hunting in Minnesota is deer hunting. Other popular types of big game include moose, bear, and elk. Small game such as squirrels, rabbits, and upland birds like phesant and grouse are also popular and plentiful.
Small Game Hunting in Minnesota
The most popular small game animals to hunt in the state are pheasants, grouse, rabbits, and squirrels. . Pheasant hunting is particularly popular in Minnesota due to the state’s large population of the bird. The challenge of flushed upland birds darting through open fields makes for an exciting hunt, and the reward is a delicious meal. Grouse are another iconic Minnesota game bird, and hunting them in the state’s forests and wetlands is a truly exhilarating experience. If you’re looking for something a little different, rabbits and squirrels make for great table fare and can be found in abundance throughout Minnesota.
Big Game Hunting in Minnesota
Whitetail deer, bear, elk, and moose are the most popular big game animals to hunt in Minnesota. Minnesota is home to some of the best Whitetail deer hunting in the country. Hunters can expect to see bountiful numbers of deer, with a healthy population of trophy bucks. Bear hunting is also very popular in Minnesota, with black bears inhabiting every county in the state. Elk were once nearly extinct in Minnesota, but thanks to reintroduction efforts by the DNR, they are now thriving and provide a thrilling hunt for those lucky enough to draw a permit. Lastly, moose are the largest big game animal in North America, and Minnesota is lucky to have a good number of these magnificent creatures.
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Where are the Best Areas to Hunt in Minnesota
Minnesota offers great hunting opportunities across the state, both on public and private land. We’ve included some of the best areas for public hunting below and as we have access we’ll be adding more private land too.
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We’re working with landowners all across Minnesota to provide private land access for more activities. Add your information below to stay up to date.
Popular Public Hunting Land in Minnesota
George Washington Carver-Nicollet County Wildlife Management Area is a popular place to hunt public land in Minnesota. The area offers a variety of game to hunt, including deer, turkey, waterfowl, and small game. The refuge also provides an opportunity to view wildlife in their natural habitat. Lac qui Parle Wildlife Management Area is another popular hunting destination in Minnesota. The area is known for its large populations of ducks, geese, and other waterfowl. Rydell National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to hunt for deer, as well as a variety of other game animals. The refuge also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge is a popular place to hunt for deer, as well as turkeys and other game birds. The refuge also provides an opportunity to see a variety of native plants and animals. Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge is a popular destination for hunters looking to bag a trophy buck. The refuge is home to a large population of white-tailed deer, as well as other game animals such as bear, moose, and wild turkey.
1. George Washington Carver-Nicollet County Wildlife Management Area
2. Lac qui Parle Wildlife Management Area
3. Rydell National Wildlife Refuge
4. Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge
5. Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge
Hunting Private Land in Minnesota
Since the majority of Minnesota is private land getting access for hunting can be very appealing. When you hunt private land, it’s not only less crowded, the animals also tend to be less skittish and this means you’ll have a better day out in the field. Traditionally, accessing private land for hunting has been complicated and expensive. You either needed to join a club, hire a guide, or start knocking on doors.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying this for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts of all types. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some options great below.