Buy your license early to avoid long lines and potential system issues associated with the high sales volume. View a list nearby DNR license agents.
Nearly half of the state's deer permit areas (shown in blue on the maps below) now are lottery areas. Many of these areas – focused in the northwestern, north-central and a portion of northeastern Minnesota – have not been lottery areas for years. Make sure you have the correct license for the area you're hunting.
Text list of area designations »
Download printable PDF of map comparisons and text list »
View Deer Permit Areas on Recreation Compass »
Recreation Compass provides a detailed map-based view, making it easier to identify exact geographic locations. Under overlays on the left side of the Recreation Compass screen, check the box next to 2012 Deer Permit Areas. Deer Permit Areas will show in red on the map. Go to Recreation Compass now.
Application available with deer license purchase in early August. Deadline first Thursday after Labor Day unless otherwise noted in list.
Check 2012 antlerless deer and special hunt lottery results.
Check 2012 muzzleloader deer hunt lottery results.
Applications open July 1.
Fourteen hunts offered. Apply by 8/17/2012 at any license agent.
All files are in PDF
format.