After more than 80 years, Minnesota's shotgun-only deer hunting zone is officially coming to an end. Thanks to the passage of the 2025 DNR omnibus bill, hunters statewide will be permitted to use all legal firearms—including rifles—during the regular firearms deer season starting in 2026. This long-anticipated change marks a significant shift in Minnesota's hunting regulations and reflects modern advancements in firearm technology and wildlife management.
A Legacy of Restriction
Established in 1942, the shotgun-only zone encompassed much of southern and western Minnesota. The original intent was to limit deer harvests and promote herd growth, as shotguns had a shorter effective range compared to rifles. Over the decades, however, advancements in shotgun technology—such as rifled barrels and sabot slugs—have extended their range significantly, diminishing the rationale for such restrictions. Moreover, Minnesota's deer population has flourished, with annual harvests increasing from approximately 77,000 in the 1940s to over 170,000 in recent years.
Legislative Milestone
The repeal of the shotgun-only zone was achieved through Senate File 2524, championed by Senator Steve Drazkowski and supported by a bipartisan group of legislators. The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 97B.031, allowing the use of all legal firearms statewide during the regular firearms deer season. It also repeals section 97B.318, which previously delineated the shotgun-only areas.
The Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus, a key advocate for the change, celebrated the repeal as a victory nearly a decade in the making. Their Senior Vice President, Rob Doar, provided an in-depth breakdown of the legislation's implications in a recent video update.
Local Control and County Ordinances
While the statewide restriction is lifted, the new law grants counties the authority to enact ordinances maintaining shotgun-only zones within their jurisdictions. These ordinances would be valid for one year and require annual renewal. This provision allows counties to address local concerns, particularly in areas with higher population densities or unique geographic considerations.
Notably, initial versions of the legislation included exemptions for Olmsted and Dodge counties, requiring them to remain shotgun-only zones. However, these exemptions were removed in the final bill, placing the decision-making power squarely in the hands of local county boards.
Safety and Modern Hunting Practices
A significant factor in the push to eliminate the shotgun-only zone was the evolving understanding of firearm safety. Studies have indicated that rifles, when used responsibly, may pose less risk than modern shotguns, which can have larger danger zones due to their wider projectile spread. Additionally, data from states like Wisconsin, which removed similar restrictions in 2013, show a decline in hunting incidents, suggesting that rifles do not inherently increase safety risks.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) supports the legislative change, citing the lack of a meaningful wildlife management purpose for the shotgun-only zone in the current context. The DNR also notes that overabundant deer populations in southern Minnesota have led to increased crop damage and other issues, which could be mitigated by allowing hunters to use more effective firearms.
Looking Ahead
With the repeal set to take effect in 2026, Minnesota hunters can look forward to greater flexibility and choice in their hunting practices. As counties consider their options regarding local ordinances, it's essential for hunters to stay informed about regulations in their specific areas. This historic change not only modernizes Minnesota's hunting laws but also underscores the importance of adapting regulations to reflect current technologies and wildlife management needs.
For more information and updates on hunting regulations, visit the Minnesota DNR website or contact your local county board.
Stay tuned to River Valley Arms & Ammo for the latest news, gear, and expert advice to prepare for the upcoming hunting seasons.