Crossbows allowed for deer and turkey hunters
Crossbows are now allowed for all Minnesota deer and spring turkey hunters with the correct license, following a law change passed in the 2023 legislative session. Deer licenses go on sale Tuesday, Aug. 1
The new law expands the use of crossbows, which previously were allowed for some hunters with a permit, who were 60 or older during archery deer or turkey seasons, or during previous firearms seasons for deer or turkeys. Crossbows were already allowed for all hunters during the fall wild turkey and bear seasons. Rough fish may be taken with a crossbow during the bowfishing season.
Apply to hunt elk in Minnesota
Interested in hunting elk? Hunters have through Friday, June 16, to apply for one of 17 elk licenses offered this year by the DNR.
Seasons will run from early September to mid-October. Hunters can choose from two license options. One license is for an antlerless elk, which can be a female or a young male. The other license option is for either a bull or antlerless elk. Please review the elk season structure on the DNR website prior to entering the lottery to ensure you apply for the license you want.
New this season, the DNR expanded the boundaries of Elk Zone 20 near Lancaster to better encompass areas where elk have been seen during elk hunting seasons. The zone expanded by about 6 miles to the west and 3 miles to the south.
Be BearWise this summer while recreating outdoors