Hunting Safety Tips for the Minnesota Outdoors

Before you set out, study a detailed map of the area you'll be hunting in. Whether you're in dense forests or open fields, understanding the layout will help you avoid hazards and ensure you're not trespassing on private land. Take note of where the nearest roads or safe exit points will be, and plan for emergencies.

Minnesota’s weather can change quickly, especially during hunting season. Dress in layers to stay warm and dry, and make sure your outer layer is waterproof. Carry an extra set of dry clothes in case you get wet from rain or crossing water​.

During Minnesota’s firearms seasons, wearing blaze orange (or pink) is mandatory. This bright color reduces the risk of accidents by ensuring they are always visible to other hunters, especially in heavily wooded areas.

Bring enough water and food for the day, especially if you plan to be out for several hours or more. Dehydration and fatigue can impair your decision-making and reaction times. Good snacks to keep on hand include:

• Jerky
• Trail mix
• Granola bars
• String cheese
• Energy bars

A small survival kit can make all the difference if you get lost or trapped by unexpected weather. Your hunting survival kit should include:

• Knife
• Waterproof matches
• Drinkable water
• Water filtration system
• Flashlight
• Compass
• First aid kit
• Loud whistles (in case you get lost or need help – many hunting accidents happen when groups of hunters get separated and can’t find each other!)

PRO TIP: Use both a GPS and a compass for navigation. While GPS is convenient, it can fail, so a compass provides a reliable backup​.

Always tell someone where you're hunting and when you plan to return. This is especially important if you're hunting alone. Keep a two-way radio and a fully charged mobile phone on hand to stay in touch while in the field. Having two means of communication will ensure you can still reach the outside world if one fails.

Minnesota has several laws to help protect hunters and others in the wild. Before heading out, review the Minnesota Hunting and Trapping Regulations Handbook to make sure you’re caught up on the latest rules. Failing to follow the law could put you in danger or result in serious penalties.

The most basic rule of firearm safety is to assume every gun is loaded, even if you think it isn’t. This mindset prevents careless handling and accidental firing. Before handling any firearm, double-check that it is unloaded by visually and physically inspecting the chamber. If you're in a group, ask others to verify that their guns are also unloaded.

One of the most critical aspects of firearm safety is controlling the muzzle's direction. Never point your firearm at something you do not intend to shoot, and always be aware of where your muzzle is directed​. That means no swinging the barrel around carelessly, resting the muzzle on your shoe, or aiming at your buddy as a joke. This applies whether it's loaded or unloaded.

PRO TIP: Keep the muzzle pointed down and away from your body when moving through rough terrain or thick brush. If you're climbing or crossing obstacles, unload your gun first.

A good hunter should always know exactly what they are shooting at. Only fire if you have positively identified your target – and what’s around or behind it. Use a pair of binoculars to fully assess the area before pulling the trigger, and make sure nothing could be hit by a missed shot or ricochet. You're ultimately responsible for wherever your bullets go, so if you're not 100% sure of your shot, don't take it​.

Accidental discharges are a leading cause of firearm-related hunting injuries. This makes trigger discipline an essential habit for any hunter. Always keep your finger off the trigger and outside the trigger guard until you have lined up your shot and are ready to fire​.

Before each season, inspect your tree stand and safety harness for wear and tear. Rust, loose bolts, or frayed straps can lead to accidents. Before setting it up for a hunt, check to be sure everything is in working order. If you find any damaged or worn parts, replace them immediately.

Picking the right tree and location is just as important as the stand itself. Choose a healthy, straight tree with strong branches and avoid dead or leaning trees that may pose hazards. Remember to position your stand in an area that gives you good visibility while keeping you safe from high winds or unstable ground.

Wearing a fall restraint device (also known as a safety harness) is essential when hunting from an elevated position. This device should be worn from the moment you start climbing into the stand until you descend to safety. A majority of tree stand-related injuries occur while climbing in or out of the stand – not when seated.

PRO TIP: Invest in a full-body harness for the best protection. Outdated single-strap or waist harnesses do not provide sufficient safety in the event of a fall.

When climbing in and out of the tree stand, always maintain three points of contact – two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand – on the ladder or steps. This ensures better balance and minimizes the risk of falling during a climb.

Alcohol impairs judgment, reaction time, and coordination – all critical factors when handling firearms and navigating rugged terrain. Hunters are also at greater risk for hypothermia and frostbite if they've been drinking. Plus, hunting while under the influence of alcohol or another controlled substance is illegal.

In short, leave the beers at home. Even if you’re camping overnight with your hunting party, save the celebratory drinks for the end of the hunt after all firearms are secured.

Hunting often involves walking long distances, climbing, or carrying heavy gear, all of which can be physically demanding. Know your physical limitations, and don’t push yourself beyond them. Exhaustion can lead to mistakes or accidents, especially in remote areas.

Take regular breaks and stay hydrated throughout your hunt to avoid fatigue, and pace yourself, especially when traversing difficult terrain​. If you start feeling worn out, don’t hesitate to turn back and head for safety.

Accidents, whether minor or severe, can happen unexpectedly. Knowing basic first aid skills, such as how to stop bleeding, treat fractures, or administer CPR, can be life-saving in an emergency. Enroll in a basic first aid and CPR course if you haven’t already. A well-stocked first aid kit should include:

• Bandages
• Antiseptics
• Tourniquets
• Pain relievers