The 2025 deer firearm season in Minnesota kicks off on Saturday with hunters facing brisk temperatures and a chance of snow. This weather is expected to enhance deer activity and visibility, according to Cory Netland, a wildlife manager with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). He described the conditions as “outstanding” for the upcoming season, emphasizing that cooler weather typically encourages deer movement.
As the rut is in full swing, hunters are likely to encounter more deer. Netland noted a recent sighting of a doe followed by a 12-point buck near his office in Sibley State Park. With the corn harvest nearly complete, the landscape has opened up, concentrating deer in familiar locations, which bodes well for hunters.
The overall outlook for the season is promising. Netland indicated that the deer population has increased significantly over the past two years, largely due to two mild winters. This rise in numbers has led to changes in the Deer Permit Area maps across southern Minnesota. Joe Stangel, DNR regional wildlife manager for the state’s 32 southern counties, noted that areas previously designated as buck-only are now becoming lottery zones, reflecting the growing deer herd.
With corn fields now bare and ample deer in the region, conditions are optimal for hunting. Stangel pointed out that early figures from the archery season, along with data from youth hunts and the early anterless season, show a promising trend. The DNR reports that the deer harvest in southern Minnesota is ahead of last year, which saw hunters take home 170,679 deer.
This season, the DNR anticipates selling over 400,000 licenses, indicating a strong interest among the hunting community. As excitement builds, hunters are sharing stories of trophy-sized bucks spotted on their trail cameras, adding to the anticipation.
For those planning to head out this weekend, Netland advises dressing in layers to combat the cold. Forecasted temperatures are expected to range from the upper teens to a high of 31 degrees Fahrenheit, making warmth a key concern for hunters eager to maximize their time outdoors.
With favorable conditions aligning, the 2025 deer firearm season in Minnesota promises to be an engaging and productive experience for many hunters across the state.
