
Bowhunting Bear in the Land of 10,000 Lakes
Help Build MNBEAR and Advocate for Minnesota Bear Hunters
Minnesota holds a rich legacy of outdoor pursuit, and bear hunting is a tradition deeply woven into the state’s fabric. Yet, as challenges to hunting access and wildlife management persist, there’s never been a more important time for bear hunters and outdoor enthusiasts to unite behind a common cause. MNBOW is stepping up to champion that cause—with an invitation for you to help build MNBEAR, a dedicated advocacy group for bear hunters within the MNBOW community.
Let's work together to secure the future of bear hunting in Minnesota, and make a real, lasting impact for hunters statewide.
Why Minnesota Bear Hunters Need a Home
Minnesota’s black bear populations are thriving, but so are the pressures on hunting opportunities. Regulations shift, access can narrow, and misconceptions about sustainable harvests often overshadow the voices of knowledgeable hunters. Bear hunters need not only a platform to be heard but also a committed community to advocate for their interests.
That’s where MNBEAR comes in. By banding together under the MNBOW umbrella, bear hunters gain a louder, more effective voice in wildlife management and hunting policy decisions that affect us all.
MNBOW and MNBEAR – Uniting for a Stronger Voice
What is MNBOW?
MNBOW (Minnesota Bowhunters) is a new statewide organization built to empower hunters of all backgrounds. Through advocacy, marketing, networking, and conservation initiatives, MNBOW is working to become a trusted partner for anyone passionate about the outdoors.
Introducing MNBEAR
MNBEAR is poised to become the home for Minnesota’s black bear hunting community. Backed by MNBOW’s organizational strength, MNBEAR will specifically focus on:
Advocating for sensible bear hunting policies
Providing critical education and resources
Building a tight-knit community of bear hunters
Representing hunters’ voices at the state level
When you join MNBOW, you can now funnel your giveback or extra donation directly to MNBEAR. These funds are earmarked for advocacy, outreach, and the defense of Minnesota’s bear hunting heritage.
The Power of Advocacy – Why Every Hunter’s Voice Matters
It’s easy to underestimate the power of a single hunter’s voice—but united voices truly change outcomes. Season frameworks, quota discussions, land access, and ethical wildlife management all hang in the balance each legislative season. Anti-hunting sentiments or misinformed regulatory changes can quickly shift the landscape for sportsmen and women.
MNBEAR, through MNBOW, seeks to:
Represent the interests of bear hunters at the Minnesota legislature and DNR hearings
Educate the public on the role of hunters in conservation and wildlife population health
Serve as a watchdog for regulatory overreach, ballot measures, or restrictions that could threaten Minnesota’s hunting legacy
By joining our advocacy hub, you’re ensuring your perspective is heard by those making key decisions about the future of bear hunting in the North Star State.
Membership Benefits for Minnesota Bear Hunters
Signing up with MNBOW and designating MNBEAR as your giveback focus unlocks several tangible benefits:
Collective strength – The more members we have, the more credible and influential our advocacy becomes.
Networking and community – Connect with other bear hunters statewide for information-sharing and camaraderie.
Exclusive updates – Stay informed on regulatory changes, season news, and public comment opportunities.
Educational resources – Access workshops, ethical hunting guides, and expert Q&A sessions.
Direct impact – Your extra donation goes straight to funding events, lobbying, and public relations campaigns in support of Minnesota bear hunters.

How to Join MNBOW and Direct Your Giveback to MNBEAR
Becoming part of the movement is simple:
-
When prompted for your "giveback" or supplemental donation preference, select MNBEAR.
-
Rest assured, your funds will go directly toward protecting and promoting bear hunting access and opportunity in Minnesota.
Updated bear hunting regulations for the 2025 season (PDF) now are available.
Lottery application deadline | May 2 |
Winner notification | By June 1 |
Licenses on sale | June 1 |
License purchase deadline | Aug. 1 |
Licenses offered | |
Unsold licenses offered | Aug. 6 |
Baiting begins | Aug. 15 |
Hunting | Sept. 1 - Oct. 12 |
Area 451 eliminated
Bear permit area 451 now is part of the No-Quota Area. BPAs 12 and 46 were modified. Review all border changes on the maps before applying.