Minnesota DNR Reminds Waterfowl Hunters To Watch For Wild Ricers

Minnesota's early teal hunting season is about to begin and the DNR wants to remind all waterfowl hunters taking part to be aware of and cautious of rice harvesters because wild rice is ripening at the same time as this waterfowl hunting season.

According to the DNR, the US Fish and Wildlife Service allows states to hold an experimental early teal season for up to three years, and 2023 is the third year Minnesota has had this season.

Minnesota’s experimental early teal season runs from Saturday, September 2, through Wednesday, September 6, with shooting hours allowed from sunrise to sunset. However, there will be special state regulations in place for hunters within the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe reservation.

Specifically, hunters may not hunt within one-half mile of posted wild rice beds open to harvest within the boundaries of the reservation. In addition, White Earth Nation may have restrictions for hunters on the White Earth Reservation.

The Minnesota DNR advises all waterfowl hunters who plan to hunt within the boundaries of the Leech Lake or White Earth reservations to contact the natural resource department within each location for more information:

Leech Lake Division of Resource Management: 218-335-7400
White Earth Division of Natural Resources: 218-935-2488

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In Minnesota, the early teal season falls at a time when people throughout the state are engaged in a wide range of other water-based activities. Therefore, all over-water waterfowl hunters must be aware and cautious about people out participating in other activities on the water, regardless of where they hunt.

“A safety mindset and mutual courtesy will allow for successful early waterfowl hunting and other water-based activities,” said Leslie McInenly, Minnesota DNR wildlife populations and regulations manager. “Additionally, with water levels low in some areas, scouting ahead is critical for both waterfowl hunters and ricers so they know whether there will be enough water for boats.”

Upon completion of this experimental teal hunting season, observers from the Minnesota DNR will be documenting which species hunters target and shoot as part of their overall assessment.

Minnesota DNR Waterfowl Hunting Page

Complete details can be found online on the DNR's Waterfowl Hunting page.

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