The outlook for the northeast region of Minnesota indicates that deer populations in most of the region remain low, according to the DNR. As a result, hunters in the far northern areas will have fewer opportunities to harvest antlerless deer, and in some locations, only the harvest of bucks will be permitted. This regulation is set to "give local deer populations in these northern areas a chance to grow where their numbers are below goals established through the public deer population goal-setting process," the DNR said.

The best deer harvest opportunities in the northeast part of the state are expected in the southern portion of the region, where deer numbers are higher. The highest deer numbers are generally anticipated in areas with mixed habitat of open fields and forest, and the DNR suggests that "scouting for local pockets of deer will improve hunter success."

As reported last month, deer hunters planning to participate in the special firearm hunts at Cascade River State Park and Judge C.R. Magney State Park this November should be aware of a change to the permit process. For the hunts, which run from November 8 to November 23, permits are no longer available for over-the-counter purchase at the park headquarters, to "help preserve natural resources and maintain the health of the ecosystem." All special hunt permits must now be acquired through the online lottery application process. Hunters who did not apply for a permit in the lottery will be unable to hunt in these parks this season.