AI was utilized in the writing of this article.
For more, see Minnesota hunting regulations & information – simplified.
Jimmy Dean
February 16, 2024
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has released its annual hunting incident report for 2023, showcasing a relatively safe year for hunters across the state. According to Glen Schmitt from Outdoor News, who recently discussed the report on WJON, there were a total of 11 reported hunting incidents last year, thankfully with no fatalities.
Of the incidents reported, more than half were self-inflicted, involving accidents during the loading and unloading of guns, or the accidental dropping of a firearm. “The DNR always says one is too many, so 11 isn’t great, but it could have been worse,” Schmitt commented, noting that the number of incidents has fluctuated between 5 to 11 annually over the past five years.
To further enhance hunter safety, the DNR has announced the availability of firearms safety classes. These courses are mandatory for anyone born after December 31, 1979, who wishes to purchase a hunting license in Minnesota. Schmitt also highlighted the option of taking these safety classes online, a convenient alternative for many. However, he advised prompt registration as these classes tend to fill up quickly due to high demand.