Minnesota Regulations
Hunting and fishing regulations, seasons, species information, and public access resources for the state of Minnesota.
Overview
Minnesota offers world-class outdoor opportunities across forests, prairies, wetlands, and more than 10,000 lakes.
Below are quick links to seasons, species, licensing, and access information.
Season Information
- Whitetail deer (archery, firearms, muzzleloader)
- Black bear (permit required)
- Turkey seasons (spring & fall)
- Small game (grouse, squirrel, rabbit, pheasant)
- Waterfowl (duck, goose — Mississippi Flyway)
- Fishing seasons (walleye, musky, northern pike, trout)
Licensing
Minnesota requires appropriate licenses for hunting and fishing activities.
- Hunting license (resident & non-resident)
- Fishing license (annual, 24-hour, combo)
- Deer, bear, and turkey permits
- Waterfowl stamps (state & federal)
- Harvest reporting (MN DNR system)
Key Species
- Whitetail Deer
- Black Bear
- Eastern Turkey
- Ruffed Grouse & Pheasant
- Walleye, Musky, Northern Pike
- Trout (inland & Lake Superior tributaries)
Public Land & Access
Minnesota offers extensive public land access through WMAs, state forests, national forests, and major lakes and rivers.
- Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)
- Superior National Forest
- Chippewa National Forest
- State forests & natural areas
- Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW)
- Boat launches & fishing piers