2015 Minnesota Deer Season to Allow for Continued Population Growth

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is in the second year of a management approach to rebuild the deer population. The DNR believes the impact is already being noticed.

Department officials say hunters should see more deer as they scout for the November 7 firearms season opener. In a news release, DNR manager Steve Merchant said, "Hunters will experience another conservative deer season in 2015. This year, they may see deer they can't shoot, but this helps provide more opportunity in the future." Last year's mild winter also meant less stress on the deer population.

The DNR reminds hunters to review new hunting regulations. Some permit area designations and boundaries also have changed. Find the latest news on the deer season on the DNR's website.

There is also the opportunity for an early antlerless hunt in parts of Winona, Houston and Fillmore counties. "There are high deer densities in localized areas of southeastern Minnesota, and in these areas there will again be an early antlerless hunt," Merchant said. That season will run from October 15-18.

A special youth deer hunt runs October 15-18 in some parts of southeastern Minnesota. Youth must have fulfilled all firearms safety requirements and must purchase a license. Adult mentors may not carry a gun unless they are participating in the early antlerless season.

Hunters are reminded to meet blaze orange requirements and ask for permission before hunting on private land.