Hunting season is practically a holiday in Minnesota — a time to unplug, get outside, and (if you’re lucky) fill the freezer. But every year, hunters wind up with more than just stories around the campfire — they end up with criminal charges they didn’t see coming.
We see it happen too often. And most of the time, it’s not because someone set out to break the law… it’s because they didn’t know the rules had changed, or they got a little too comfortable.
If you’re heading into the field this fall, here are 7 legal slip-ups to avoid if you want to focus on the hunt (not the headache).
1. Carrying a Gun While Under the Influence (Yes, It’s a Crime)
Everyone knows driving under the influence is illegal. But in Minnesota, so is carrying a rifle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Even if the gun is holstered or in your truck, Minnesota Statute § 624.7142 makes it a crime. And unlike a DWI, there’s no set BAC threshold — if you’re impaired, you’re at risk. It also applies to controlled substances, even those legally prescribed.
Tip: Leave the beer for after the hunt. Carrying a firearm and drinking just don’t mix.
2. Hunting While Intoxicated
This is a separate offense — and yes, it’s a real one. Under § 97B.065, hunting while under the influence is a misdemeanor in Minnesota.
It doesn’t matter if you’re using a shotgun, a bow, or your grandpa’s old muzzleloader — if you’re impaired, it’s illegal.
3. Letting Someone Borrow Your Gun (Not So Simple Anymore)
New changes to Minnesota gun laws mean you can’t just lend a buddy your shotgun or “military-style” rifle for the weekend. Even if you’re just trying to help them get out for a hunt.
Under § 624.7134, unless the person is an immediate family member (think parents, children, siblings, spouse, grandkids, or grandparents), it’s considered an illegal transfer — even if it’s just for a few hours.
Bottom line: Be careful who you hand a gun to, even for “just a minute.”
4. Hunting Without a License
It happens more than you’d think: you grab your gear, head to your spot, and realize your license expired — or you didn’t buy the right one for the species you’re after. Read the rules and make sure you have every license you need for the game you’re hunting.
Minnesota takes licensing seriously. Hunting without a valid and correct license can get you fined and, in some cases, lose your privileges to hunt in the future.
Make it part of your gear checklist: license, tags, and ID.
5. Ignoring Bag Limits or Hunting Times
You don’t have to be spotlighting deer at midnight to get nailed for poaching. Sometimes it’s just an honest mistake — taking one too many birds or shooting five minutes too early.
Stick to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Hunting and Trapping Regulations, and double-check:
- Bag limits
- Shooting hours
- Season dates
- Land access rules
Accidentally crossing the line can still cost you — and yes, they can seize your gun or vehicle if it’s bad enough.
6. Poor Gun Storage — Especially in Your Truck
This one’s easy to overlook: your firearm must be unloaded and properly stored when it’s in your vehicle. Leaving a loaded rifle in the cab — even “just for a bit” — is illegal.
In Minnesota, guns must be:
- Unloaded
- Cased (soft or hard case)
- Or stored in the trunk
If you’re pulled over and the officer finds a loaded gun, expect a citation at best and criminal charges at worst.
7. Shooting From Your Vehicle
See a pheasant on the edge of a field while you’re driving? Don’t do it.
Shooting at game from inside a vehicle — whether it’s a truck, ATV, or even a boat with a motor running — is illegal in almost every situation. There are exceptions for hunters with disabilities and proper permits, but most folks don’t qualify.
Rule of thumb: Step out and make sure you’re on stable ground before you pull the trigger.
Quick FAQs About Minnesota Hunting Laws
Can I drink alcohol at deer camp after the hunt?
Sure — as long as you’re done hunting and your guns are put away. Just don’t carry or handle a firearm if you’ve been drinking.
What if I forget my license but already bought one?
You can still be cited for not carrying it. Always bring a copy — physical or digital — with you into the field.
Is it legal to let my friend borrow a hunting rifle?
It depends. Long guns are generally okay to lend, but pistols and certain rifles (like AR-style firearms) have strict transfer laws. When in doubt, don’t do it.
How do I transport a firearm legally in Minnesota?
Unload it. Case it. Put it in the trunk if possible. That’s the safest and most legal way to go.
What should I do if I’m charged with a hunting-related crime?
Call a defense attorney who understands Minnesota’s hunting laws. At Smith, Paulson, O’Donnell & Erickson, we can walk you through your options and fight to protect your record.
Need Help? Talk to a Lawyer Who Hunts (Or at Least Knows the Rules)
A mistake in the field can turn into a criminal charge faster than you think — but one charge doesn’t have to define your season. If you’ve been cited or arrested for a hunting-related offense, talk to a team that knows how to handle it.
