With archery deer and small-game hunting seasons set to begin Saturday, Sept. 19, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources encourages all hunters to prioritize their safety and that of others in the field.
Each year, hunters are injured, or worse, in falls from tree stands or hunting incidents involving firearms.
“Hunting season is a time of year that many people look forward to and our goal is that every hunter who heads afield makes it home safely,” said Capt. Jon Paurus, education program coordinator for the DNR Enforcement Division. “Whatever species they’re targeting, every hunter should take a moment to focus on the task at-hand, whether that’s climbing into their tree stand or ensuring they know exactly what’s beyond the animal they intend to harvest.”
A few tips for a safe and successful hunt:
- Brush up on the key tenets of safe firearms handling and make sure firearms are in good working order.
- Be safe in the tree. Check all tree stand equipment for wear and tear, including safety harnesses, haul lines, the stand itself, and steps and ladders. Practice climbing into and out of the stand before the season starts. During the hunt, remember to keep three points of contact while climbing into and out of the stand.
- Ensure all members of hunting parties know where everyone will be hunting so they know where it is safe to shoot.
- Wear blaze orange or pink clothing (also encouraged for non-hunters in areas where people are hunting). It increases your visibility to other hunters who are sharing the area with you. Check the hunting regulations for when wearing it or having it on the ground blind is required.
Reminder to buy licenses early this year
The Minnesota DNR is urging hunters to buy their deer licenses early this year. Buying early helps hunters avoid any delays that might happen while setting up an account.
“This year, by buying a license early, hunters can future proof their hunt by not letting any issues encountered while getting a license interfere with hunting plans,” Paurus said. “That way they can have peace of mind that they’re ready for the hunt.”
If buying in person, hunters should also check that the place where they want to buy a license is selling them this year. The Minnesota DNR has an online map of 2026 license agents.