Hunters in Minnesota are gearing up for the opening of the 2025 deer firearm season on Saturday, facing brisk temperatures and a chance of snow. According to Cory Netland, wildlife manager with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the weather conditions are ideal for deer movement. He expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming season, stating, “The weather outlook to me: Outstanding as far as that goes.”
The cool temperatures are expected to enhance deer activity, while potential snowfall will aid hunters in tracking and spotting their targets. Netland highlighted that the overall prospects for the firearm season are promising, as favorable conditions are aligning. Two mild winters have contributed to an increased deer population across the region, a trend that bodes well for hunters.
As the season begins, deer are in the midst of their rut, a period characterized by heightened activity. Netland noted an observation from his office at Sibley State Park, where he witnessed a doe followed closely by a 12-point buck, seemingly oblivious to his presence. This behavior is typical during the rut, providing excellent opportunities for hunters.
The completion of the corn harvest is another factor working in favor of hunters. With fields cleared, deer are likely to gather in familiar areas, making them easier to locate. Netland is optimistic that hunters will encounter a good number of trophy bucks this season. He mentioned that conversations among hunters have revolved around impressive trophy-size bucks captured on trail cameras.
Joe Stangel, the regional wildlife manager for Minnesota’s 32 southern counties, shares Netland’s optimism about the upcoming season. He has observed changes in the Deer Permit Area maps, indicating a growing deer herd. Areas that were previously buck-only are now becoming lottery regions, and more liberal harvest quotas have become the norm.
The combination of cold temperatures, abundant deer numbers, and the absence of corn cover sets the stage for a successful hunting experience. Early statistics from the archery harvest and youth hunts indicate an encouraging trend, with overall deer harvest numbers in southern Minnesota surpassing those from last year. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources expects to sell over 400,000 licenses for this season, a testament to the strong interest among hunters.
In the previous year, a total of 170,679 deer were harvested, and this year’s conditions suggest that hunters may achieve similar or even better results. For those heading into the field this weekend, dressing in layers is a crucial tip, as temperatures are projected to range from the upper teens to a high of 31 degrees Fahrenheit. Netland emphasizes that staying warm will enable hunters to remain out in the field longer, increasing their chances of success.
As the excitement builds for the opening day, the combination of weather, deer population dynamics, and hunter preparedness paints a promising picture for the Minnesota deer firearm season.
