On September 15th the woods come alive with the happy hunters who couldn't wait for fall and the chance to test their skills against the speedy winged drummer of the northwoods. The Grand Rapids area offers some of the finest grouse hunting in Minnesota. Good habitat, well-managed and abundant public land combine for a desirable location for the serious outdoorsman or outdoorswomen. Working your dog or walking the never ending forest trails for ruffed grouse hunters is an exhilarating day a field. The Grand Rapids area provides world-class upland bird hunting and is also the home of the prestigious National Ruffed Grouse Society Hunt held each October. The bird count is up this fall and with all the moister we have had the past month has made for some outstanding hunting. The forests floors are quiet, the birds are hunkered in and perfect for the flushing.

Duck Hunting

As you imagine, with over 1000 lakes in Itasca County there is no shortage of waterfowl in our area.  With the large number of rice baring lakes and the drought like conditions the waterfowl hunting should vastly improve this year. Ring-necked ducks, mallards, wood ducks and teal are the most common users of wild rice habitat. Wild rice actually thrives in drought conditions, because the low water levels let wild rice plants and seeds flourish. This year, the wetland dinner table is set in north-central Minnesota with both low water and abundant wild rice. These will make for a bounty of plenty for area duck  hunters this fall.

2012Hunting Seasons