FAW_0006_2024_Hunting_Regulations_2023_A11Y.pdf

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MINNESOTA

HUNTING

& TRAPPING

REGULATIONS

http://www.mndnr.gov/hunting

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7Table of Contents

Trespass Law 10 Hunting Licenses 13 Stamps 22 General Hunting Information 25 Accessible Hunting Options 27 All-terrain Vehicles for Hunting 28 Dogs 29 Using Lights, Night Vision, Drones, or Wireless Devices 31 Blaze Clothing and Ground Blind Requirements 34 Youth Hunting 35 Youth Deer Season 37 Small Game 43 Seasons, bag limits, shooting hours 47, 50 Trapping 51 Big Game 60 Deer 61 Bag Limits 68 Chronic Wasting Disease 74 Sampling station locations for CWD 79 Deer Feeding Ban 86 Venison Donation Program 87 Deer—Youth Season 88 Deer—Firearms, Muzzleloader, Late CWD 89 Special Hunts 92 Public Lands and Wildlife Refuges 105 Contact Information 127 Sunrise/Sunset Table 129

TABLE OF CONTENTS

For com plete regulations, consult the state statutes and rules. Waterfowl, bear, wild turkey, and elk regulations can be found online.

Cover images:

Hunting photo by Mo Vang. Ever since Vanna was a baby, she has taken an interest in her dad’s hunting and fishing hobbies. Vanna began her hunting journey at age 5 when she shot her first tom—featured in this photo. She now has two birds under her belt, and we look forward to many more. We think turkey hunting is a great way to introduce the kids to hunting and hope to inspire others to share their hunting experiences with their little ones.

Landscape photo by Minnesota DNR.

Turkey photo by Tom Koerner, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Digital Library.

The sale of advertising pays for a portion of this publication. The state of Minnesota and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources neither endorse products or services listed nor accept any liability arising from the use of products or services listed.

8 2023 Minnesota Hunting Regulations 888-MINNDNR

NEW FOR 2023

Crossbows

• Hunters who purchase an archery deer license may take deer with a crossbow throughout the archery deer season. Archery hunters may be asked at registration if they harvested their deer with a crossbow or vertical bow.

• People who purchase a spring archery wild turkey license may take wild turkeys with a crossbow throughout the spring archery wild turkey season.

• Crossbows are allowed during the fall wild turkey and bear seasons.

Blaze orange requirements A person in a fabric or synthetic ground blind on public land must have a blaze orange safety covering on top of the blind that is visible from all directions or a patch made of blaze orange material that is at least 144 square inches (12x12 inches) on each side of the blind. This regulation applies year-round on all public land.

Deer hunting

• Portable deer stands may be left overnight in certain wildlife management areas in the northwest. Details on page 109.

• A licensed hunter who lawfully harvests an escaped farmed deer or elk is not liable to the owner, but they must notify the DNR within 24 hours. If you harvest a deer or elk with ear tags or other identification, contact a conservation officer using information on page 127.

• Youth may not tag antlerless deer or legal bucks taken by another individual. Youth hunters must take and tag their own deer.

• The definition of muzzleloader has changed. Muzzleloaders that are loaded from the muzzle but charged from the breech may be used during the muzzleloader deer season. The previous definition required muzzleloaders to be both loaded and charged from the muzzle.

Chronic wasting disease

• CWD testing is available for hunters statewide. Find out how to get your deer tested on pages 77 and 78.

• Mandatory CWD testing will be in effect for the opening weekend of Firearms A season in all CWD surveillance and management zones. This includes several new CWD areas and several areas where sampling was voluntary in 2022.

• New areas where CWD sampling is mandatory this year include DPAs 101, 201, 256, 257, 260, 262, 263, 265 and 268 in northwest Minnesota, DPAs 259 and 287 (Itasca State Park) in north central Minnesota, and DPAs 233, 293, 341 and 342 in southeast Minnesota. Details are on pages 74-76.

• Deer permit areas 343 and 344 have been added to the southeast CWD management zone and are re-numbered 643 and 644.

• A new CWD management zone, deer permit area 684 (formerly DPA 184), was added near Bemidji in response to two positive deer detected during fall 2022.

• After three years of sampling with no additional positives, sampling will be discontinued in DPAs 157, 159, 213, 225, and 273.

Continued on next page

9 NEW FOR 2023

Non-toxic ammunition requirements Hunters may only possess and use non-toxic ammunition when participating in a special hunt or disease management hunt in a Minnesota State Park or Scientific and Natural Area or in a regular hunt in a Scientific and Natural Area where hunting is allowed, (page 118). Bullets, slugs, muzzleloader ammunition and other single projectiles must be made entirely of non-toxic material approved by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Non-toxic ammunition also includes steel shot that is copper-plated, nickle-plated, or zinc-plated or other projectiles made entirely of non-toxic material approved by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Any projectile containing lead is prohibited, including lead ammunition plated with non-toxic material. Find more information on page 93.

Non-toxic ammunition requirements do not apply to youth special hunts in the shotgun-use area if hunters remove all parts of harvested deer, including the entrails.

Furbearers

• Trapping regulations east and north of U.S. Highway 53, as shown on the map on page 56, were further modified in 2023 to reduce or eliminate the incidental take of Canada lynx. Detailed regulations are on pages 56 and 57.

• The location of the furbearer registration station in Hibbing will be the DNR Drill Core Library at 1521 1st Avenue.

• Furbearer registration hours in Eveleth will be 3-6 p.m. on December 19 and January 16.

10 2023 Minnesota Hunting Regulations 888-MINNDNR

TRESPASS LAW

The trespass law applies to all outdoor recreation, including: hunting, boating, fishing, trapping, hiking, and camping. When taking part in outdoor recreation, you may not enter legally posted land or agricultural land without permission.

Landowners, lessees, or authorized managers need only post their land once a year.

The signs must be placed at intervals of 1,000 feet (500 feet in wooded areas) or signs may be placed at primary corners of each parcel and at access points to the property.

Signs must state “No Trespassing,” or similar words, in 2-inch high letters and have either the signature or the name and telephone number of the landowner, lessee, or manager.

There can be civil or criminal penalties for violation of the trespass laws with maximum fines up to $3,000 and license revocation. All conservation officers and peace officers enforce trespass laws. If you have doubts about whether you may be trespassing on private land, ask the landowner for permission.

Restrictions

• A person may not enter legally posted land for outdoor recreation purposes without permission.

• A person may not enter agricultural land for outdoor recrea tion purposes without permission.

• A person may not remain on or return within one year to any private land for outdoor recreation purposes after being told to leave by the owner, occupant or lessee.

• On another person’s private land or a public right-of-way, a person may not discharge a firearm within 500 feet of a building occupied by humans or livestock without written permission of the owner, occupant or lessee of the building. This does not apply to people hunting on their own property.

• A person may hunt from the water, a private shooting preserve, or from public land that is within 500 feet of a building occupied by humans or livestock.

• A person may not discharge a firearm within 500 feet of a corral of 1 acre or less confining livestock for the purpose of normal livestock holding or sorting operations without permission. This does not apply to persons hunting during an established season on state or local government-owned land that is not road right-of-way.

• A person may not take a wild animal on any land where the person is prohibited from lawfully entering by this law. This prohibition includes coyote hunters intentionally running their dogs on posted or agricultural land without permission of the landowner, occupant, or lessee.

• A person may not wound or kill another person’s domestic an i mal, destroy private property, or pass through a closed gate without returning it to the original position.

Exceptions

• A person on foot may, without permission, enter land that is not posted to retrieve a wounded wild animal that was lawfully shot, but may not remain on the land after being told to leave.

11Trespass Law

• A person on foot may, without permission, enter private land without a firearm to retrieve a hunting dog. After retrieving the dog, the person must immediately leave the premises. This exception does not au tho rize the taking of the wild animal.

• A person on foot may, without permission, enter land that is posted with “Walk-In Access” signs.

Permission is required on agricultural land even if it’s not posted Hunters and trappers must always respect private lands. Ask first before entering lands not posted as being open to hunting and trapping.

Notification to stay off private land, authorization to remove a sign posted to prevent trespass, or legal permission to enter pri vate land or to take wild an i mals near occupied buildings or corrals, may only be given by the own er, oc cu pant, or lessee.

What is agricultural land?

“Agricultural land” is land that: 1) is plowed or tilled; 2) has standing crops or crop residues; 3) is within a maintained fence for enclosing domestic livestock (including horses); 4) is planted to native or introduced grassland or hay land; or 5) is planted to short-rotation woody crops (hybrid poplar and other woody plants that are harvested for their fiber within 15 years of planting).

Posting is not required on lands considered agricultural, including:

• All planted grassland and hay land.

• All hybrid poplar and other woody plants harvested for fiber within 15 years of planting.

• Riparian buffers required by law.

• Land enrolled in Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) or Reinvest in Minnesota (RIM).

Land that is brush or trees should be posted. When the agricultural status of land is not clear, verbal notice should be given to trespassers before enforcement can occur.

Water access and recreational use What is lawful access?

A stream or lake is lawfully accessible if there is a public access, or if public land or a public road right-of-way abuts the surface of the water, or if you have permission to cross private land to reach the surface of the water.

What is recreational use?

Recreational use includes boating, swimming, fishing, hunting, trapping, and similar activities. It includes walking in the water in connection with such activities regardless of who owns the land beneath the surface of the water.

What waters are open to recreational use?

A stream or lake is open to recreational use over its entire surface if it is capable of recreational use and if it is lawfully accessible. Any water that will float a canoe is capable of recreational use, but other waters may also qualify depending upon the circumstances.

12 2023 Minnesota Hunting Regulations 888-MINNDNR

Landowner liability An owner who gives written or oral permission for the use of the land for recreational purposes without charge does not, by that action:

• extend any assurance that the land is safe for any purpose,

• confer upon the person the legal status of an invitee or licensee to whom a duty of care is owed, or

• assume responsibility for or incur liability for any injury to the person or property caused by an act or omission of the person.

Road right-of-way Some road right-of-ways are not owned by a unit of government. In these instances the landowner has granted an easement for vehicle and foot travel. The landowner generally retains authority to restrict access for hunting or trapping and may prohibit trespass by posting the land or by verbally directing hunters and trappers to leave the easement. It’s always best to ask permission if in doubt about the ownership of a road ditch area. County or township offices also may be able to help determine the ownership status of a road ditch.

Helpful examples of road right-of-way ownership and public use include:

• Hunting is not allowed on Interstate Highway right-of-ways.

• State highways are most often owned by the state, but there may be a mix of easements and state ownership.

• County roads may be owned by the county, or there may be easements. Roadways with easements tend to be gravel, while roads owned by the county tend to be paved. Road surface is a visual indicator of the ownership but is not an absolute condition.

• Township roads are generally easement and not owned by the township, but some township roads are owned by the township. As is the case with county roads, road surface can be a visual indicator of the ownership.

• The ownership or easement status can vary on any one stretch of road, and can vary from road to road.

Visually, the road right-of-way is improved and maintained, and you will normally notice a change in the property—including such things as ditches, fence lines, etc.

The actual distance from the center of the road that is improved and maintained can vary under ownership or easement, and from one location to another.

13Hunting Licenses

HUNTING LICENSES

A license to take wild animals continues to be valid for the balance of the license period even if the licensee’s age, residency, or student qualification status changes.

Prices do not include additional issuing fees.

Youth licenses for wild turkey, deer (qualified by age of licensee on the opening day of the statewide A deer season), bear and elk are qualified by the age of licensee on the opening day of the season. Youth licenses for species that may be taken under a small game license are qualified by the age of the licensee on September 1.

There is a $1 agent fee associated with licenses, including some free licenses. Sport, super sport and deer licenses include $1 for the deer/bear management account, and 50 cents for emergency feeding and wild cervidae (deer, elk, moose) health account.

The 72-hour licenses include $3.75 pheasant stamp account, $3.75 waterfowl stamp account, and $3.25 small game surcharge.

What is a resident?

To qualify as a resident, a person must maintain a legal residence in Minnesota for at least 60 consecutive days before purchasing a license.

• Residents 21 years of age or older must provide a current Minnesota driver’s license or Minnesota public safety ID card or have a receipt for an application for a Minnesota driver’s license or Minnesota public safety ID that is at least 60 days old.

• A nonresident under age 21 whose parent is a Minnesota resident is considered a resident.

What is a nonresident?

A nonresident is anyone who does not meet the definition of a resident.

What licenses do nonresidents need?

• A nonresident under age 18 may obtain a small game license at the resident fee if the nonresident possesses a firearms safety certificate.

• Nonresidents under age 16 are not required to possess a small game license.

• A nonresident under age 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to take small or big game.

• Nonresidents may trap in Minnesota only on their own land and with a nonresident trapping license.

• Nonresidents may not take raccoon or bobcat without a furbearer raccoon/bobcat

(nonresident) license and a nonresident small game license.

Licenses for nonresident students What if I’m not a state resident but am a full-time student at a Minnesota school, college or university?

By showing a fee statement and providing proof you live in Minnesota during the school year, you may purchase a small game, deer or bear license at the resident rate.

What if I’m a foreign exchange student residing with Minnesota residents?

By showing proof, you may purchase a deer or bear license at the resident rate.

14 2023 Minnesota Hunting Regulations 888-MINNDNR

Licenses for military personnel Can veterans with disabilities take antlerless deer without a lottery permit?

Yes, with the appropriate deer license, veterans with a 100 percent service connected disability may take a deer of either sex in any area except bucks-only areas.

What if I’m a resident in the military stationed outside the state?

You may hunt small game without a license while on leave. You also do not need a Minnesota Waterfowl Stamp or Pheasant Stamp but must have a Federal Duck Stamp to hunt waterfowl. You may hunt deer, bear, and wild turkeys without charge after obtaining the appropriate licenses and tags by presenting official leave papers to a license agent. Deer bonus permits may be purchased. You must carry proof of residency and official leave papers while hunting. Residents must possess a current Minnesota driver’s license or public safety identification.

What if I’m not a state resident but am the spouse of a Minnesota resident on active military duty?

By showing proof, you may purchase hunting licenses at the resident rate.

What if I’m a resident home on leave or have been discharged from active service outside the country in the past 24 months?

You may take small game and fish without a license. Discharged residents must carry proof of residency and official discharge papers. Any required tags may be obtained at no fee.

You are eligible for a free deer license, valid for a deer of either sex, except in bucks-only areas. Eligibility is limited to one deer license per person. Discharged residents must provide a current Minnesota driver’s license or public safety identification card and a copy of their official discharge papers.

What if I have a 100 percent service-related disability?

Residents may obtain a free small game license and one free firearms, muzzleloader or archery deer license from an ELS license agent (state stamps not required).

What if I’m a nonresident active National Guard?

A nonresident active member of Minnesota’s National Guard may obtain a resident license to take fish or game. This does not apply to elk.

Buying a license Buy early Avoid delays by buying hunting and fishing licenses far ahead of deadlines.

Where to buy DNR’s Electronic Licensing System (ELS) issues licenses through 1,500 license agents in Minnesota, on the DNR website at mndnr.gov/buyalicense or by calling 888-665-4236.

Online purchase of tags Licenses that come with a tag may be purchased online. However, tags must be received by the licensee through the mail prior to participating in the activity.

Licenses with tags may not be purchased on a mobile device.

http://www.mndnr.gov/buyalicense http://www.mndnr.gov/buyalicense

15Hunting Licenses

License Code Age Cost Lifetime Sports (One Angling and one Small Game)

413 Age 3 and under $522

Lifetime Sports 413 Age 4 to age 15 $710

Lifetime Sports 413 Age 16 to age 50 $927 Lifetime Sports 413 Age 51 and over $603 Lifetime Small Game 412 Age 3 and under $223 Lifetime Small Game 412 Age 4 to age 15 $301 Lifetime Small Game 412 Age 16 to age 50 $430 Lifetime Small Game 412 Age 51 and over $274 Lifetime Deer Hunting 414 Firearm, 410 Archery, 409 Muzzle Age 3 and under $458

Lifetime Deer Hunting 414 Firearm, 410 Archery, 409 Muzzle Age 4 to age 15 $607 Lifetime Deer Hunting 414 Firearm, 410 Archery, 409 Muzzle Age 16 to age 50 $741 Lifetime Deer Hunting 414 Firearm, 410 Archery, 409 Muzzle Age 51 and over $528

Lifetime Hunting Resident Individual

Lifetime license Lifetime license application forms are available online or by calling the DNR Information Center at 888-MINNDNR. Lifetime sports or small game license holders who meet license requirements and who plan to trap are required to have a free trapping endorsement on their renewal. There is no fee for a lifetime license renewal.

ANYONE CAN REGISTER TO BE AN

ORGAN, EYE & TISSUE DONOR

www.DonateLifeMN.org

Register as a donor when you get your DNR hunting license online.

Have questions or input on deer-related topics?

Our phone lines are open!

Area wildlife managers always welcome feedback from the public on deer management.

Visit mndnr.gov/areas/wildlife to find your local wildlife office contact information.

http://www.mndnr.gov/areas/wildlife

16 2023 Minnesota Hunting Regulations 888-MINNDNR

Category Code Subcategory Description Cost

APPRENTICE

Validation

199 Born after 12/31/79, age 12 or over

Validation to allow an individual to hunt small game, bear, and deer without having completed hunter education firearms safety, must purchase additional required licenses. Limited to twice in a lifetime.

$3.50

SPORTS 216 Individual Sports Individual angling and small game license

$41

Sports 142 Individual Super Sports

Individual angling with trout validation, small game license with pheasant and state waterfowl stamp validations, one deer license

$100

Sports 217 Married Combination Sports

Two angling and one small game license

$57

Sports 143 Married Combination Super Sports

Two angling with trout stamp validations, one small game license with pheasant and state waterfowl stamp validations, one deer license

$126

SMALL GAME

and TRAPPING

NA Youth under age 16 Annual

Small Game License Not Required

SMALL GAME and TRAPPING 208 Youth age 16-17 Annual

Small Game License $5

SMALL GAME and TRAPPING 211 Adult age 18 or over and under age 65 Annual

Small Game License $22

SMALL GAME and TRAPPING 100 Senior age 65 and over Annual

Small Game License $13.50

SMALL GAME and TRAPPING 144 Adult age 18 and over Consecutive 72-hour

Small Game License (72-hour state waterfowl and pheasant stamp validations included)

$19

SMALL GAME and TRAPPING 671

Furbearer site validation coupons

Fisher/Marten (671) or River Otter (672)

Free

SMALL GAME and TRAPPING 218 Junior Trapping Annual age 13 to 17

Age 13 to 17 trapping license, small game license also required for 16-17

$5

SMALL GAME and TRAPPING 214 Adult Trapping Annual age 18 or over and under 65

Age 18 and over trapping license, small game license also required.

Trappers education may also be required.

$23

SMALL GAME and TRAPPING 101 Senior Trapping Annual age 65 or over

Age 65 and over trapping license, small game license also required

$11.50

STAMPS 229 Pheasant Age 18 to 64 state pheasant validation

$7.50

STAMPS 226 State Waterfowl Age 18 to 64 state waterfowl validation, federal migratory bird hunting validation also needed

$7.50

Resident Hunting Cost does not include issuing fee.

17Hunting Licenses

TURKEY 600 Adult Lottery

Application Turkey Lottery Application Fee when needed

$4

TURKEY 619 Youth under age 13 Turkey Spring archery or firearm (any permit area and time period)

Free

TURKEY 641 Youth under age 13 Turkey Fall archery or firearm (any permit area and time period)

Free

TURKEY 601 Youth age 13 to 17 Turkey Spring archery or firearm (any permit area and time period)

$5

TURKEY 655 Youth age 13 to 17 Turkey Fall archery or firearm (any permit area and time period)

$5

TURKEY 610 Adult age 18 or over

Turkey Spring archery or firearm $26

TURKEY 607 Adult age 18 or over

Turkey Spring archery (all time periods)

$26

TURKEY 650 Adult age 18 or over

Turkey Fall archery or firearm $26

WALK-IN

ACCESS

190 Access Validation all ages

Walk-In Access Validation $3

WALK-IN ACCESS NA Donation Voluntary donation on small game and deer licenses

$5 $3 $1

DEER 246 Youth age 10 to 12 Must obtain a free license to take big game (code 246 Archery, 247 Firearms, 248 Muzzleloader)

Free

DEER 247 Youth age 10 to 12 Must obtain a free license to take big game (code 246 Archery, 247 Firearms, 248 Muzzleloader)

Free

Deer 248 Youth age 10 to 12 Must obtain a free license to take big game (code 246 Archery, 247 Firearms, 248 Muzzleloader)

Free

DEER 210 Youth age 13 to 17 Deer by Firearms $5

DEER 209 Youth age 13 to 17 Deer by Archery $5

DEER 204 Youth age 13 to 17 Deer by Muzzleloader $5

DEER 212 Adult age 18 and over

Deer by Firearms $34

DEER 213 Adult age 18 and over

Deer by Archery $34

DEER 203 Adult age 18 and over

Deer by Muzzleloader $34

DEER 312 Zone Change Deer Firearms Zone Change $5

DEER 422 Early Season Antlerless

Deer Early Antlerless Season (no longer required, page 88)

$8.50

DEER 430 Bonus Bonus Permit (of which $1 goes to the venison donation program)

$18

DEER 201 Disease Management

Disease Management Antlerless Tag (600-series deer permit areas only)

$1.50

Resident Hunting continued

18 2023 Minnesota Hunting Regulations 888-MINNDNR

ELK 625 Application Elk Application $4

BEAR 662 Application Bear Application $4

BEAR 659 Youth age 10 to 12 Bear License. Must obtain a free license to take big game.

Free

BEAR 674 Youth age 10 to 12 Surplus Bear License. Must obtain a free license to take big game.

Free

BEAR 676 Youth age 10 to 12 No Quota Bear License. Must obtain a free license to take big game.

Free

BEAR 643 Youth age 13 to 17 Bear License $5

BEAR 644 Youth age 13 to 17 Surplus Bear License $5

BEAR 642 Youth age 13 to 17 No Quota Bear License $5

BEAR 660 Adult age 18 and over

Bear License $44

BEAR 664 Adult age 18 and over

Surplus Bear License $44

BEAR 224 Adult age 18 and over

No Quota Bear License $44

BEAR 697 Bear Bait Drum Surcharge ($5 per drum) $5

PRAIRIE

CHICKEN

616 Application Prairie Chicken Application $4

PRAIRIE CHICKEN 617 License Prairie Chicken License $23

SANDHILL

CRANE

250 Permit Sandhill Crane Permit $3

GOOSE 520 License Goose during a special September season

$4

GOOSE 521 Permit Spring Light Goose Conservation Permit

$2.50

WILD RICE 331 Season Permit Wild Rice Season Harvest for age 18 and older

$25

WILD RICE 332 One-day Permit Wild Rice One-day Harvest for age 18 and older

$15

Resident Hunting continued

19Hunting Licenses

APPRENTICE

Validation (Nonresident)

199 Born after 12/31/79, age 12 or over

Validation to allow an individual to hunt small game, bear, and deer without having completed hunter education firearms safety, must purchase additional required licenses. Limited to two in a lifetime.

$3.50

WALK-IN ACCESS

(Nonresident)

190 Access Validation ALL ages

Walk-In Access Validation $3

SMALL GAME

and TRAPPING (Nonresident)

146 Youth under age 16 Annual

Small Game License Not Required

SMALL GAME and TRAPPING (Nonresident)

206 Youth age 16 or over and under 18 Annual

Small Game License $5

SMALL GAME and TRAPPING (Nonresident)

221 Adult age 18 or over Annual

Small Game License $102

SMALL GAME and TRAPPING (Nonresident)

145 Adult age 18 or over Consecutive 72-hour

Small Game License (72-hour state waterfowl and pheasant stamps included)

$75

SMALL GAME and TRAPPING (Nonresident)

207 Trapping Trapping (landowner only) $84

TURKEY

(Nonresident)

600 Adult Lottery Application

Turkey Lottery Application Fee when needed

$4

TURKEY (Nonresident) 594 Youth under age 13

Turkey Spring Archery or Firearm (any permit area and time period)

Free

TURKEY (Nonresident) 593 Youth under age 13

Turkey Fall Archery or Firearm (any permit area and time period)

Free

TURKEY (Nonresident) 602 Youth age 13 to 17

Turkey Spring Archery or Firearm (any permit area and time period)

$5

TURKEY (Nonresident) 656 Youth age 13 to 17

Turkey Fall Archery or Firearm (any permit area and time period)

$5

TURKEY (Nonresident) 611 Adult age 18 or over

Turkey Spring Archery or Firearm $96

TURKEY (Nonresident) 608 Adult age 18 or over

Turkey Spring Archery Only (non-lottery, all time periods)

$96

TURKEY (Nonresident) 651 Adult age 18 or over

Turkey Fall (no lottery) $96

DEER

(Nonresident)

247 Youth age 10 to 12

Must obtain a license to take big game

Free

DEER (Nonresident) 231 Youth age 13 to 17

Deer Firearms $5

Nonresident Hunting Cost does not include issuing fee.

20 2023 Minnesota Hunting Regulations 888-MINNDNR

DEER

(Nonresident) continued

230 Youth age 13 to 17

Deer Archery $5

DEER (Nonresident) 236 Youth age 13 to 17

Deer Muzzleloader $5

DEER (Nonresident) 222 Adult age 18 or over

Deer Firearms $185

DEER (Nonresident) 223 Adult age 18 or over

Deer Archery $185

DEER (Nonresident) 237 Adult age 18 or over

Deer Muzzleloader $185

DEER (Nonresident) 322 Zone Change Deer Firearms Zone Change $5

DEER (Nonresident) 423 Early Antlerless

Deer Early Antlerless Season (no longer required, page 88)

$45

DEER (Nonresident) 431 Bonus Bonus Permit ($1 venison donation) $91

DEER (nonresident? 202 Disease Management

Disease Management Antlerless Tag (600-series deer permit areas only)

$1.50

BEAR

(Nonresident)

662 Application Bear Application $4

BEAR (Nonresident) 659 Youth age 10 to 12

Bear License. Must obtain a free license to take big game.

Free

BEAR (Nonresident) 674 Youth age 10 to 12

Surplus Bear License. Must obtain a free license to take big game.

Free

BEAR (Nonresident) 676 Youth age 10 to 12

No Quota Bear License. Must obtain a free license to take big game.

Free

BEAR (Nonresident) 646 Youth age 13 to 17

Bear License $5

BEAR (Nonresident) 647 Youth age 13 to 17

Surplus Bear License $5

BEAR (Nonresident) 645 Youth age 13 to 17

No Quota Bear License $5

BEAR (Nonresident) 661 Adult age 18 or over

Bear License $230

BEAR (Nonresident) 667 Adult age 18 or over

Surplus Bear License $230

BEAR (Nonresident) 225 Adult age 18 or over

No Quota Bear License $230

Nonresident Hunting continued

21Hunting Licenses

RACCOON

or BOBCAT (Nonresident)

228 License Raccoon or Bobcat. Small game license also required.

$183

SPECIAL GOOSE

(Nonresident)

520 License Goose during a special September season

$4

521 Permit Spring Light Goose Conservation Permit

$2.50

WILD RICE

(Nonresident)

333 One-day Permit

Wild Rice One-day Harvest for all ages.

$30

Federal aid in wildlife restoration Minnesota’s rich outdoor heritage is enjoyed by all. When you purchase a rifle, ammunition, archery equipment, and other sporting gear, you pay a federal excise tax and import duties.

Since 1937, this money has been collected by the federal government and redistributed to the states using a formula based on hunting license sales and the state’s land area.

These funds support projects, habitat management, wildlife management areas, technical guidance, population management, wildlife inventory and surveys, wildlife land acquisition, and hunter education, recruitment and retention.

Nonresident Hunting continued

22 2023 Minnesota Hunting Regulations 888-MINNDNR

Stamps Are stamps required to hunt ducks and pheasants?

Yes, for most hunters. Those who do not need pheasant or state waterfowl stamps include:

• Residents with a super sports license (state stamp validations included in the license).

• Residents and nonresidents hunting with a 72-hour license (state stamps not needed).

• Residents on military leave.

• Resident veterans with 100% service-connected disabilities who possess a veteran’s disability hunting license.

• Residents and nonresidents hunting on commercial shooting preserves.

• Residents hunting pheasants on the land where they live.

• Residents and nonresidents hunting waterfowl on their own property.

• Stamps are not required for residents and nonresidents age 15 and under.

State pheasant stamp (validation requirements by age)

• 16-17 years old: resident-not required, nonresident-not required

• 18-64 years old: resident-required, nonresident-required

• 65 and over years old: resident-not required, nonresident-required

State waterfowl stamp (validation requirements by age)

• 16-17 years old: resident-not required, nonresident required

• 18-64 years old: resident-required, nonresident-required

• 65 and over years old: resident-not required, nonresident-required

Federal waterfowl stamp (validation requirements by age)

• 16-17 years old: resident-required, nonresident-required

• 18-64 years old: resident-required, nonresident-required

• 65 and over years old: resident-required, nonresident-required

Federal Waterfowl Stamps can be purchased at post offices or license agents.

Electronically issued Federal Duck Stamps are available at all of Minnesota’s 1,500 electronic license vendors, beginning July 1. An electronically-issued federal stamp is valid for 45 days. Pictorial stamps, when received by mail, must be signed across the face and in the possession of the hunter.

Harvest Information Program (HIP) certification is required for resident and nonresident migratory bird or waterfowl hunters.

2023 Waterfowl Stamp art by Jim Caturia of Cannon Falls.

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$7.50 $7.50

MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Blue-winged Teal

2023 Pheasant Stamp art by Michael Sieve of Rushford.

23Hunting Licenses

Frequently asked questions about hunting licenses When do I need a hunting license?

• A person may not take, buy, sell, transport, or possess protected wild animals without a license, except as provided in this booklet.

• You are required to have your license in your possession while hunting or traveling to and from your hunting location.

• If you are ticketed for not having your license in possession, producing your license later will keep you from having to pay a fine.

I purchased the wrong deer license, can I change it?

Yes. A person who has purchased a regular or lifetime firearm deer license and wishes to change their season option (A or B) must submit their original license and tags before the season of the original license opens. There is a fee of $5 (plus a $1 issuing fee) for any change. Replacement licenses are available from any ELS license agent.

• Youth hunters may also change from a regular firearms deer license to a youth deer license, if they purchased the incorrect license.

• Archery licenses including lifetime licenses may be changed to firearm or muzzleloader licenses prior to the beginning of archery season. There is a fee of $5 (plus a $1 issuing fee).

• Regular firearm licenses including lifetime licenses may be changed to a muzzleloader or archery license prior to the beginning of the firearm season.

There is a fee of $5 (plus a $1 issuing fee).

Do I need my social security number?

Yes. All persons must have their social security number on file with DNR.

How long is my license valid?

Hunting licenses are valid during legal seasons between March 1 and the last day of February.

Can I purchase a deer license after the start of a deer season?

Yes, but it may not be valid immediately. See page 63 for additional information.

Is my license valid if I hunt a lake that borders another state or province?

Persons acting under a Minnesota hunting or trapping license may only take wild animals on the Minnesota side of the border.

What if I lose my license?

You can go to any license agent and have them print a duplicate license. The fee is $5.75 for a Big Game License and $2.50 for all others.

Can I get a refund if I don’t use my license?

Generally, license sales are final. A refund can only be issued if the licensee is unable to participate due to active military duty, cancelled military leave or death prior to opening of the season.

You may also request a refund if:

• You bought two licenses for the same season.

• You bought a license that wasn’t required to participate in the activity.

The request for a refund must be received within 90 days of the original license purchase.

24 2023 Minnesota Hunting Regulations 888-MINNDNR

Questions about firearm safety certificates Do I need a firearms safety certificate?

• If you were born after December 31, 1979, you must have a firearms safety certificate to purchase a license to hunt with a firearm.

• See pages 35-37 for youth requirements and exceptions.

• If you are on active duty and completed basic training in the U.S. Armed Forces, Reserves, or National Guard you may purchase a license or obtain approval that authorizes hunting without possessing a firearms safety certificate. Once discharged, you must obtain a firearms safety certificate.

• A replacement for a lost or destroyed firearms safety certificate can be obtained at any ELS license agent for $3.50.

• A permit to carry a weapon under the Minnesota Personal Protection Act does not meet requirements for firearms safety.

• Firearms safety certificates are required for archery hunters ages 12-15.

I want to try hunting, but I don’t have a firearms safety certificate. How can I go?

• The apprentice hunter validation is a short-term exclusion to the requirement for completing hunter firearms safety training that can be purchased where hunting licenses are sold. The validation may be purchased in two license years in a lifetime.

The apprentice hunter must also obtain all applicable licenses and stamps.

• People who use an apprentice hunter validation must be within sight and hearing distance of an adult who has a valid license to hunt the same species of game.

The accompanying adult may not use an apprentice hunter validation.

• When hunting turkey or prairie chicken, the accompanying adult must be licensed for the same season, but may be licensed for another time period. Otherwise, the accompanying adult may not shoot or possess a firearm or bow.

Have you moved, changed your name, or has your driver’s license number changed?

If you have recently moved or changed your last name, please ask the license agent to update your record when you purchase your license. If your driver’s license number has changed, please contact the DNR License Center at 877-348-0498 or 651-297-1230.

25General Hunting Information

GENERAL HUNTING INFORMATION

The following are general hunting regulations. Regulations for specific game species follow.

Firearms, Bows and Crossbows How do I legally transport my firearm?

A person may not transport a firearm, including a handgun, in or on a motor vehicle unless the fire arm is:

• unloaded and fastened in a case so that no part of the firearm is exposed (a holster is not a legal case);

• unloaded and in the closed trunk of a motor vehicle; or

• a pistol or handgun authorized under the Minnesota Personal Protection Act.

Under the following circumstances, a person may transport unloaded, uncased firearms (excluding pistols) in a motor vehicle, including ATVs:

• while at a shooting range with permission.

• while lawfully hunting on private or public land or while travelling to or from a site the person intends to hunt or trap or has lawfully hunted that day.

Firearms must be transported unloaded and cased:

• within Anoka, Hennepin, or Ramsey counties.

• within the boundaries of a home rule, charter, or statutory city with a population of

2,500 or more.

• on school grounds.

• as otherwise restricted in laws related to game refuges, shining, thermal imaging or night vision laws.

What does unloaded mean?

Unloaded means a firearm without ammunition in the barrels or magazine, if the magazine is in the firearm. A flintlock ignition is unloaded if it does not have priming powder in a pan. A percussion ignition muzzleloader is unloaded if it does not have a percussion cap on a nipple.

How do I legally transport my bow?

Archery bows and crossbows may be transported uncased in a motor vehicle but cannot be armed with a bolt or arrow.

Can I shoot from my vehicle?

No person may take a wild animal with a firearm or bow from a motor vehicle, except hunters with a disability permit. See pages 27 and 28.

Can I hunt with a handgun?

• Persons age 18 or older may carry a handgun to hunt or target shoot.

• Persons under age 18 who meet firearms safety requirements (see page 36) may carry handguns for hunting under the supervision of a parent or guardian.

• Unless authorized to carry a pistol or handgun under the Minnesota Personal

Protection Act, a person may not possess a firearm while bow hunting for deer.

• A person may take bear and elk by archery while in possession of a firearm.

26 2023 Minnesota Hunting Regulations 888-MINNDNR

• Persons authorized to carry a handgun or pistol under the Minnesota Personal Protection Act may carry it uncased and loaded while hunting and while traveling to or from hunting locations by motor vehicle.

Can I hunt with a crossbow?

• ⁕NEW—Any person with a valid archery license may take deer or turkey with a crossbow during the respective regular archery seasons.

• Persons hunting under a regular firearms license may take deer, bear or turkey with a crossbow during the respective firearms seasons. Any person may hunt during the fall wild turkey season with a crossbow.

• Persons with a disability who have a valid permit and archery license may also use a bow with a mechanical device that draws, releases, or holds the bow at full draw.

See page 60.

If I’m not hunting deer, can I possess a firearm during the deer season?

No person may possess a firearm or ammunition outdoors five days before the firearms deer opener and end ing through the second day after the close of the season where deer may be taken by firearms, except:

• A person hunting big game with a valid firearms big game license in possession.

• Possession is also legal under these conditions:

› An unloaded firearm that is cased or in a closed trunk of a motor vehicle.

› A shotgun and shells containing No. 4 buckshot or smaller.

› A handgun or rifle with .22 caliber short, long, or long rifle, magnum or

.17 caliber rimfire cartridges.

› Handguns by a person with a permit to carry a weapon under the Minnesota

Personal Protection Act.

› On a target range or under a target range permit issued by a conservation officer.

This does not apply to the muzzleloader season. Muzzleloaders that are legal for deer may be possessed afield only by persons with a muzzleloader or firearms deer license during that season.

Protected and Unprotected Animals Protected animals Protected animals are all birds and mammals that may be taken as authorized during established hunting seasons.

Crows

• Crows may be taken without a license during the established hunting season or at any time when they are doing or are about to do damage.

• Electronic calls or sounds may be used for crow hunting.

• Crows may be taken with a legal firearm (shotgun not larger than 10 gauge, rifle, or handgun), bow and arrow, or by falconry.

Mammals

• All mammals for which hunting seasons are established in these regulations are protected mammals, but may be taken as authorized.

• There is no open season on caribou, antelope, lynx, wolverine, cougar, wolf, moose or spotted skunk (“civet cat”). Continued on next page

27General Hunting Information

• A person may not export or import a live coyote into the state unless authorized by the Commissioner.

Nongame bird species Most bird species, including bobwhite quail, swans, hawks, owls, eagles, herons, bitterns, cormorants, loons and grebes may not be taken. Only designated game birds during open hunting seasons and unprotected birds may be taken.

Taking protected species All protected species must be killed before being removed from the site where taken.

Unprotected animals

• Unprotected birds include house sparrows, starlings, common pigeons, Eurasian collared dove, chukar partridge, quail, other than northern bobwhite, and monk parakeets. These birds may be taken at any time.

• Unprotected mammals include: coyotes, plains pocket gophers, porcupines, red/pine squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus), striped skunks, and woodchucks.

Mammals for which there are no closed seasons or other protection are also unprotected. These animals may be taken at any time.

• Unprotected birds and mammals may be taken in any manner, except with the aid of artificial lights or by using a motor vehicle to drive, chase, run over, or kill the animal. Exceptions for coyote hunting are on pages 31 and 32.

• Poisons may be used only when the safety of humans and animals is ensured and in accordance with state and federal restrictions.

Do I need a license to hunt unprotected species?

No. Residents and nonresidents are not required to have a license to hunt unprotected species including coyote. Nonresidents may trap only on land they own in Minnesota with nonresident trapping and small game licenses.

What do “taking” and “possession” mean for hunters?

“Taking” means pursuing, shooting, killing, capturing, trapping, snaring, angling, spearing, or netting wild animals; or placing, setting, drawing, or using a net, trap, or other device to take wild animals. Taking also includes attempting to take wild animals or assisting another person in taking wild animals.

“Possession” means game animals are in a person’s possession whether on hand, in cold storage, in transport, or elsewhere.

Accessible Hunting Options I have a disability. Can I get a permit to hunt from a vehicle?

Yes. A person with a disability who has the appropriate permit may take a wild animal with a firearm or by archery from a motor vehicle.

What does the permit allow?

Except in bucks-only areas, a person with a disability with a permit to shoot from a stationary motor vehicle may take a deer of either sex without an antlerless permit.

Other members of the hunting party may not shoot antlerless deer for this person.

28 2023 Minnesota Hunting Regulations 888-MINNDNR

How do I get a permit?

Permits to shoot from a stationary motor vehicle may be issued by DNR Enforcement to a person who has a permanent physical disability that is more substantial than discomfort from walking.

Who qualifies for permits?

The permit recipient must: be unable to step from a vehicle without aid of a wheelchair, crutches, braces, or other mechanical support or prosthetic device; or be unable to walk any distance because of a permanent lung, heart, or other internal disease that requires the person to use supplemental oxygen to assist breathing.

Do I need to get my disability verified to get a permit?

Yes. The permanent disability must be verified in writing by a licensed physician, certified nurse practitioner or certified physician’s assistant acting under the direction of a licensed physician or chiropractor. The applicant must possess a valid disability parking certificate or license plates issued by the Department of Public Safety.

How do I apply?

Permit applications are available online at mndnr.gov/licenses/special or from any DNR regional office. See contact information on page 127.

Are there other permits or exceptions for hunters with disabilities?

Yes. More information is available as noted:

• Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices—permit allows hunters with mobility disabilities to operate a motorized device on DNR-owned lands. For more information, call the DNR Information Center at 888-MINNDNR (646-6367).

• Crossbows, pages 27 and 60.

• Special seasons, page 66.

• Blinds at some major wildlife management areas (WMAs), page 110.

• Deer stands at Agassiz, Rydell, Minnesota Valley, and Big Stone National

Wildlife Refuge.

People with permanent physical disabilities may obtain a firearms hunting license with a provisional firearms safety certificate. While hunting, they must be accompanied and assisted by a parent, guardian or other adult.

All-terrain Vehicles for Hunting What is considered an all-terrain vehicle?

For the purposes of these regulations, all vehicles not requiring Minnesota Depart ment of Public Safety licensing, including motorized trail bikes, 3-wheelers, 4-wheelers, 6-wheelers, tracked vehicles, and other similarly manufactured or home-made vehicles.

A person may not intentionally operate:

• in most wildlife management areas, a state park, or a scientific and natural area, except as authorized in this booklet;

• in unfrozen public waters (lakes, rivers, streams and certain wetlands), or in calcareous fens;

• on a trail on public land that is designated or signed for non-motorized use only;

http://www.mndnr.gov/licenses/special

29General Hunting Information

• on areas within public lands that are posted or where gates or other clearly visible structures are placed to prevent un authorized motorized vehicle access; or to…