Wildlife Refuges and State Parks serve as sanctuaries for all manners of animals and people. From Deer to Upland Game to Waterfowl and Fish. But, did you know that many of them offer special hunts? I didn't!
Why do they have them?
Well, many reasons actually. Hunter participation amongst all ages brackets is on a slow downward trend. My theory is that Minnesota would like to create more hunter opportunities with these special hunts. Also, these hunts would act as something of a management tool for the Fish and Wildlife Agencies to regulate animal populations exceeding carrying capacities within these areas.
Although many hunters are successful within these locations, it is not a guarantee. These hunts will require mental alertness and toughness. Often times special rules and hunting zones are applied within the parks and refuges. For example, refuges do not allow for hunting stands to be left on the trees or land overnight. This requires the hunter to take all their equipment out with them everyday. I asked a few Refuge Managers about this, and how one typically goes about following this rule. They mentioned a few tactics people take such as: hauling in a ladder stand with a game-cart or garden cart, or carrying in self climbing stands, and ground blinds.
I'll agree that these hunts are a little more requiring of the hunter who may be used to hunting on State Forests. Still, I wouldn't hesitate to try these.
Alas, here are a few big examples that might serve as good starting reference.
List of all State Parks offering hunts HERE.
Itasca State Park: Firearm & Muzzleloader Hunt
Ever dreamt about hanging a stand on the headwaters of the Mississippi?
This large state park is located north of Park Rapids and south of Bemidji. It is open to firearms during the statewide (A) season and open during muzzleloader hunting season. No application required. Hunt also includes Itasca Wilderness Sanctuary SNA. Dork Stats👉👉 Success Rates Here.
Maplewood State Park: Firearm Hunt
Located East of Pelican Rapid about 20 miles. Application is required. 100 permits given. 2 deer limit. The hunt is November 7-10. (Deadline to apply has passed)
St. Croix State Park: Firearm Hunt
On the border of Minnesota and Wisconsin, about halfway between the Twin Cites and Duluth. Application is required. 350 permits given. 2 deer limit. The hunt is November 19-22. (Deadline to apply has passed)
Note: To apply for these hunts, hunters would purchase a license and use the 3 digit hunt code for the application to the special hunt lottery. Deadline is the first Thursday after Labor Day. (Confused yet?) You'll receive a letter in the mail if you are drawn and results will also be posted on the MNDNR website.
If not drawn, your license is still valid! (you just can't hunt the special hunt)
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge: Archery & Firearms Hunt
Large refuge located in the Zimmerman area. No application required. Rules and regulations here.
Glacial Ridge & Rydell National Wildlife Refuge: Various Hunts
Located close to the Crookston Area. No applications required. Rules and Regulations here, here and here. Hunts include various small games and deer.
Hamden Slough Wildlife Refuge: Muzzleloader Deer Hunt
Smallish refuge north of Audubon, close to the Detroit Lakes area. This hunt follows all state wide muzzleloader hunting regulations and season dates. All areas of the Hamden Refuge that have the blue goose "refuge sign" are accessible for hunting during this time.
This hunt would be a fun challenge. ( I'd hunt north of Hwy 12.)
No application required.
Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge: Various Hunts
I really like this large refuge located northeast of Detroit Lakes. Lots of access and roadways. Hunt away from roads for best opportunity. Rules and Map here. (You can fish here too)
No application required. Dork Stats👉👉 HERE
To find public lands to hunt (or fish) near you, use the Recreational Compass. (It's what I use)
Good Luck.
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