Senator Jeff Howe (R-Rockville) introduced legislation aimed at allowing kids under 18, both residents and non-residents, to take small game or fish without a license, given that they possess a firearms safety certificate.  

“Many of the surrounding states already allow resident and non-resident kids 16 and under to hunt without a license, and it’s a shame to think that Minnesota’s hunting license age is causing us to lose families that travel for their annual hunting trips,” said Senator Howe. “We want families to establish those traditions here in Minnesota—we want them to come here for their annual hunting trips in the hope that their children will continue that tradition. Our state has a great environment for hunting, and we should encourage more hunters and their families to experience it. This bill is a short-term cost for huge long-term gain.”

Current law in Minnesota states that a small game hunting license is required for all hunters 16 years of age and older, but 14- and 15-year-olds are eligible to hunt small game without a Minnesota Hunting License only if they have a valid hunter education certificate. The law also dictates that only residents are able to take fish without a license. If enacted, this law would raise that threshold to 18, and allow non-residents to partake in the same activities. 

“Some families get their kids hooked on hunting at a young age, and there’s no reason we shouldn’t be welcoming that business into our state,” finished Senator Howe.