DNR Expects 'Good Season' for Minnesota Deer Hunters

Hunters heading into the fields and forests for Minnesota’s firearms deer season starting Nov. 5 can expect a “good deer season” and ample hunting opportunities, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

“We can’t guarantee harvest success,” said Steve Merchant, wildlife programs manager. “But we can assure hunters that good deer hunting opportunities exist throughout Minnesota.”

Nearly 500,000 people are expected to hunt statewide during the firearms deer season. The DNR estimates the Minnesota’s whitetail deer population is about one million and expects this year’s harvest to be similar to the 207,000 deer harvested in 2010.

Deer licenses can be purchased for $27 at DNR license agents across Minnesota. Residents can buy a firearm deer license at several Maple Grove locations, according to the DNR. Check with the DNR for details of identification and other items needed to purchase a firearm deer license.

• 16350 96th Ave. N. 

• 9451 Dunkirk Lane N.

• 11361 Fountain Drive

• 8030 Wedgewood Lane

•    12530 Elm Creek Boulevard N.

License questions should be directed to the DNR Information Center at 651-296-6157 or toll-free at 888-646-6367. Additional information can be found online at the DNR website.

The Information Center and License Center at DNR headquarters, 500 Lafayette Road in St. Paul, will work extended hours on opening weekend to handle additional phone calls from deer hunters. Phone lines will be open on Friday, Nov. 4, until 8 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 5, from 8 a.m. to noon.   

The firearms deer season concludes in the northern Minnesota on Sunday, Nov. 20, and Sunday, Nov. 13 in all other parts of the state, according to the DNR.