Minnesota Waterfowl Hunting
Plan your Minnesota waterfowl hunt with season dates, license options, and hunting opportunities organized by unit. Browse available private-land hunts and book access directly from landowners.
Last updated by Aricin Rotarius
Find Hunts by Unit
Browse private-land waterfowl hunts across Minnesota, organized by unit, and book directly with landowners.
Minnesota Waterfowl Seasons
These dates represent the “general” season dates. Check the individual hunting unit regulations for the most accurate season dates and regulations.
Wilson's Snipe Season
–
Sandhill Crane Season
–
Sandhill crane zone only. Shooting hours: 1/2 hour before sunrise to sunset.
Minnesota Waterfowl Licenses
Resident Licenses
| License | Availability | Eligibility | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| State Waterfowl Stamp Validation | OTC | Ages 18–64 | $7.50 |
Age 18 to 64 state waterfowl validation. Federal migratory bird hunting validation also needed. Code 226. Cost does not include issuing fee. | |||
Nonresident Licenses
| License | Availability | Eligibility | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Light Goose Conservation Permit (Nonresident) | — | — | $2.50 |
Code 521. $2.50 Spring Light Goose Conservation Permit for nonresident. Special Goose category. | |||
Other Licenses
| License | Availability | Eligibility | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sandhill Crane Permit | Draw | — | $3.00 |
Code 250. | |||
| Spring Light Goose Conservation Permit | OTC | — | $2.50 |
Code 521. Spring Light Goose Conservation Order permit. | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Waterfowl season in Minnesota runs approximately from September 1 through December 16, 2025. Wilson's Snipe season spans the full period from approximately September 1 through December 16, 2025, while Sandhill Crane season runs approximately from September 13 through October 19, 2025 in the Sandhill Crane zone only with shooting hours from one-half hour before sunrise to sunset.
See the latest Field Notes from properties offering waterfowl hunts in Minnesota.
