Minnesota Muzzleloader Deer Season 2026-27

Legal equipment

Minnesota's muzzleloader season is restricted to single-shot, front-loading muzzleloading firearms. Ignition type (flintlock vs. percussion/inline), sight and optic allowances, and any minimum caliber requirements are set by the wildlife agency and can differ from the archery or firearm seasons. Confirm current equipment rules with Minnesota's wildlife agency before you hunt.

Tags and antlerless rules during muzzleloader season

Tag allowances and antlerless-only windows vary by zone and by segment within Minnesota's deer season — some of the dates in the table above are antlerless-only, while others allow either sex. Review each zone row for its specific rules, and confirm current tag limits, antler-point restrictions, and any special antlerless permits required for the muzzleloader season with Minnesota's wildlife agency.

How muzzleloader overlaps firearm season

Muzzleloader season (November 28 – December 13) opens right after Firearm A closes in most series and overlaps the tail end of the 300 Series' Firearm B season.

What changed for 2026-27

Season dates are set annually by Minnesota's wildlife agency and can shift from year to year based on herd surveys, weather, and management goals. The dates above reflect the official 2026–27 season as published by the Minnesota wildlife agency; check the source link above for any addenda issued after publication, and always reverify before you hunt.

Frequently asked questions