Updated as of 10/3/2025- "Muzzleloaders must be loaded with a single projectile that has a soft point or is an expanding bullet type. Muzzleloaders cannot be loaded at the breech, powder revolvers are not legal for taking big game if they are loaded through the cylinder. Smooth-bore muzzleloaders used must be at least .45 caliber, rifled muzzleloaders must be .40 caliber or larger. Muzzleloaders with scopes are legal during the regular firearms and muzzleloader deer seasons."
MINNESOTA MUZZLELOADER HUNTING SEASONS
Muzzleloader Deer Hunts
| Season | Season Dates | Bag Limit | Zone |
| Muzzleloader | Nov 29th - Dec 14th | See Regs | Statewide |
See regulations for Early Antlerless Season Area availability for muzzleloaders.
Muzzleloader Special Hunts - No Permit Required
| Area Name | Hunt No. | Season Dates | Legal Wildlife | Notes |
|
Itasca State Park |
287 | Nov 29th - Dec 14th | 1 Animal Either Sex | Includes Itasca Wilderness Sanctuary |
| City of Grand Rapids | 946 | Nov 29th - Dec 14th | 3 Animals Either Sex | Mandatory CWD sampling |
| Schoolcraft State Park | 912 | Nov 29th - Dec 14th | 1 Animal Either Sex |
Muzzeloader Turkey Hunts
| Season | Dates | Area(s) |
|
Fall Season |
Oct 4th - Nov 2nd, 2025 | |
| Spring Firearms Season |
Apr 15th - Apr 21st, 2026 |
A |
| Spring Firearms Season | Apr 22nd - Apr 28th, 2026 | B |
| Spring Firearms Season | Apr 29th - May 5th, 2026 | C |
| Spring Firearms Season | May 5th - May 12th, 2026 | D |
| Spring Firearms Season | May 13th - May 19th, 2026 | E |
| Spring Firearms Season | May 20th - May 31st, 2026 | F |
FOR TURKEY:
- Shotguns or muzzleloader shotguns must be 10 guage or smaller
- Only fine shot size No. 4 and small diameter (sizes 4, 5, 6, 7.5, 8, etc.) may be used
MINNESOTA MUZZLELOADER HUNTING SEASON REGULATIONS
-
Muzzleloaders must fire a single projectile that is a soft point or expanding bullet type
- Muzzleloaders cannot load from the breech
- Smoothbore Muzzleloaders must be .45 cal or larger
- Rifled Muzzleloaders must be .40 cal or larger
- Scopes are legal
- Ammo must be U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service approved nontoxic ammunition
This information is subject to change, for more information visit: Minnesota Hunting Regulations
HAVE MINNESOTA MUZZLELOADER HUNTING SEASON QUESTIONS?
Muzzleloader Hunting season is the best for low-pressure hunting and plentiful wildlife. If you are new to muzzleloaders or would like more information on your state's muzzleloader hunting regulations, make sure to give us a call. Muzzle-Loaders.com is focused on promoting black powder hunting in all 50 states and can help you determine when your particular state's hunting season starts. If you have questions about Minnesota Muzzleloader Hunting Season, please call us at 1-855-236-5000 or email us at sales@muzzle-loaders.com.
