Minnesota made crossbow hunting permanent in 2026. After a trial period that began in 2023, the Legislature passed Chapter 64 (S.F. 1251), signed May 5, 2026, which removed the June 30, 2026 expiration date from Minnesota Statutes 97B.037. Any licensed archery deer hunter age 10 or older may now use a crossbow for the full archery season, which runs September 19 through December 31, 2026.
Terrain & Hunting Landscape
Minnesota's landscape is a blend of the northern boreal 'Big Woods,' central hardwood transition zones, and the southern prairie pothole region. The state features over 10,000 lakes and vast river systems that create unique travel corridors and bedding areas for big game and waterfowl alike.
White-tailed deer are the primary focus, but Minnesota is also a top destination for black bear, ruffed grouse, and waterfowl. The state also holds managed hunts for moose and elk in specific northern units.
Public Hunting Areas
Public hunters frequent the Chippewa and Superior National Forests, the remote Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, and massive state-managed tracts like the Red Lake Wildlife Management Area (WMA).
Crossbow & Bowhunting Culture
Minnesota hunting culture is defined by a deep heritage of 'living off the land,' with a strong emphasis on ruffed grouse hunting in the north and waterfowl traditions in the central wetlands. The state has a high volume of public land, making it a haven for DIY hunters.
Season Overview
Minnesota's 2026 archery deer season runs September 19 through December 31, 2026. Crossbow use is permanent law as of May 5, 2026, and is available to all archery deer license holders age 10 and older.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone use a crossbow during Minnesota's archery season?
Yes. Any hunter holding a valid Minnesota archery deer license may use a crossbow throughout the entire archery season, with no separate permit required.
Is there a disability permit needed for crossbows in Minnesota?
No. Because crossbows are legal for all archery license holders, hunters no longer need a disability exemption to use one during the archery season.
Does Minnesota set a minimum draw weight for crossbows?
Minnesota does not publish a minimum draw weight for crossbows; equipment must comply with Minnesota Statutes 97B.106, subdivision 2, which covers legal archery equipment and broadheads.
Are there archery-only zones in Minnesota?
Minnesota does not use archery-only zones for deer. Archery seasons are statewide, and crossbows are allowed during those seasons; some special hunts have their own weapon rules.
What license do I need to hunt deer with a crossbow in Minnesota?
Hunters need a Minnesota archery deer license, which requires a firearms safety certificate for those born after December 31, 1979. Hunters age 10 and older may use a crossbow.
What changed about Minnesota crossbow law in 2026?
The 2026 Legislature removed the sunset provision from Minnesota Statutes 97B.037, making crossbow use during archery seasons permanent instead of expiring June 30, 2026.
Can I leave a portable hunting stand overnight in a National Forest?
In the Chippewa and Superior National Forests, portable stands may be placed starting August 15 and must be removed by December 31. They must not damage trees and cannot be permanent structures with walls or a roof.
What are the blaze orange requirements for hunters in Minnesota?
During the firearms deer season, all hunters and trappers must wear blaze orange or blaze pink on the chest, back, and head. This requirement applies even if you are hunting small game on public land while the deer season is open.