Hunting

The Brainerd Lakes Area is an ideal hunting destination because of its excellent mix of deciduous and pine forests and the availability of public land to hunt. The area has healthy deer and grouse populations, and excellent small game hunting. Several hundred lakes, rivers and wetlands in the area attract large flocks of ducks and geese, making waterfowl season very popular among hunters. And the area is beginning to see an increase in the number of wild turkeys here, as well, increasing the popularity of the spring and fall turkey seasons. There are very few wild pheasants in the area, but a number of local hunting preserves offer pheasant and chuker hunts. Local hunting preserves as well as local gun clubs and ranges offer sporting clays and other activities to help you perfect your shot.

Crow Wing County has 103,000 acres open to public hunting.  Most of the acreage has public access vis public roadways and forest trails. Hunting is a recreational activity that is allowed on County Forest Lands. View the current 2011 Minnesota Hunting and Trapping Regulations Handbook for rules and regulations. On page 102 you will find rules on the State Wildlife Management Areas. On page 126 you will find the statement on Crow Wing County Managed Forest Lands, which discusses the prohibiting of permanent hunting stands. Some county land may fall within the city limits. Please check with the city for their hunting rules and regulations.