The Minnesota DNR has released the fall 2026 hunting regulations, which include changes to deer hunting permits and a new electronic licensing system. Glen Schmitt from Outdoor News breaks down the changes, including the use of shotguns versus rifles in certain permit areas.
Deer Hunting Changes
The new electronic licensing system has been implemented, and while it has caused some frustration, Schmitt believes it will be fine once people get used to it. The DNR is also implementing a 4-year statewide CWD (chronic wasting disease) surveillance program, which will involve mandatory testing of deer during the opening weekend of the firearms season in certain areas.
The testing process will include staff examination stations, and hunters can also obtain a mail-in sampling kit to remove the lymph nodes themselves and send them in for testing. Taxidermists can also pull the lymph nodes for hunters. Deer numbers are reportedly very good throughout the state, including Central Minnesota.
Fishing
Warm weather has led to warm water temperatures, making fishing more difficult. Schmitt suggests fishing early and late in the day for the best chance of success, and notes that fishing for walleye is particularly tough right now.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
