2026 Fishing & Hunting Opening Dates
North Dakota
Spring Turkey – April 11
Mountain Lion – August 29
Dove – September 1
Deer or Pronghorn (Bow) – September 4
Deer (Youth) – September 18
Grouse, Partridge, Squirrel – September 12
Waterfowl (Youth) – September 19
Waterfowl (Early Resident) – September 27
Waterfowl – October 4
Pronghorn (Gun) – October 2
Pheasant (Youth) – October 3
Tundra Swan – October 3
Pheasant – October 10
Fall Turkey – October 10
Mink, Muskrat, Weasel Trapping – October 25
Deer (Gun) – November 6
Deer (Muzzleloader) – November 27
Minnesota
Spring Turkey – April 16
Walleye, Sauger, Northern, (Statewide) – May 10
Take a Mom Fishing Weekend. -May 10-11
Largemouth, Smallmouth (Statewide) – May 25
Muskie – June 7
Take a Kid Fishing Weekend – June 6-8
Bear – September 1
Dove, Rail, Snipe – September 1
Goose – September
Youth Waterfowl – September
Deer (Archery) – September 14
Grouse, Small Game – September 14
Sandhill Crane, Waterfowl, – September
Take a Kid Hunting Weekend – September
Partridge, Woodcock – September 20
Fall Turkey – October 4
Prairie Chicken – September 27
Pheasant – October 11
Badger, Fox, Racoon, Opossum – October 19
Deer (Youth) – October 17-20
Deer (Gun) – November 9
Deer (Muzzleloader) – November 30
Fishing & Hunting Safety Tips
Our national forests are a refuge for wild animals, including dangerous animals like bears and venomous snakes. Wild animals can be upset by human presence and can unexpectedly become aggressive. Do not give them a reason or an opportunity to attack. Always keep your distance. Your safety is your responsibility.
- Tell someone where you will be hunting.
- Avoid outings alone. If you go alone, be extra careful and hunt in familiar areas.
- Dress properly and be prepared for the worst possible conditions. Protect against hypothermia.
- Check the weather forecast before going into the woods.
- Identify your target before shooting.
- Check hunting equipment before and after each outing, and maintain it properly. Familiarize yourself with its operation before using it in the field.
- Always wear enough blaze orange to be highly visible to other hunters.