In addition, three key hunting-related changes were passed:

• Discounted licenses for disabled veterans – starting March 1, 2027, resident disabled veterans with a 50-99% service-related disability will be eligible for reduced hunting and fishing licenses of $5.
• Crossbow use extended – the statute allowing all hunters to use crossbows during the archery season has been extended through June 30, 2026.
• Shotgun-only zone repeal – the shotgun-only hunting zone will be repealed effective Jan. 1, 2026. However, counties within the current shotgun zone will still have the authority to restrict firearm use following public hearings. We discussed this and more about the history of the shotgun zone in the June edition of Deer Notes. The shotgun zone will remain in place for the 2025 deer season.

Dates to mark for hunters

Hunting regulations: We’ll have the Minnesota Hunting Regulations available online the week of Aug. 1. Remember to check back on the DNR deer hunting page to get the details you need for deer seasons.

Antlerless lottery deadline: The antlerless lottery deadline is Thursday, Sept. 4. All hunters who purchase a firearms or muzzleloader license, and declare an antlerless permit lottery area by Sept. 4, will be automatically entered into the lottery for an antlerless permit. Sept. 4 is also the deadline for adults to apply for special hunts.

Camp Ripley: As a reminder, the Camp Ripley archery hunt will again be open to archery hunting by permit only during the entire Minnesota archery season, rather than a single weekend. Permits go on sale Aug. 1. Camp Ripley administers the hunt and you can find more information on the iSportsman Camp Ripley webpage.

Firearms safety classes: Do you or someone you know need to take firearms safety course? Sign up as soon as you can, because these classes fill quickly. Check out the certification requirements for youth, and adults 16 and older, on the DNR website.