Fall turkey hunting licenses available over the counter

ST. PAUL - Starting this year, Minnesota turkey hunters may purchase a license over-the-counter to hunt the fall season wherever hunting and fishing licenses are sold.

No lottery application will be necessary. Hunters still must declare a turkey permit area when purchasing a license and they are restricted to hunting that area.

The application and lottery are being discontinued because the number of fall turkey licenses available has exceeded the number of applicants for the past several years.

"Everyone who entered the lottery received a license," said Steve Merchant, DNR wildlife populations and regulations manager. "Allowing over-the-counter purchase streamlines the process for hunters."

Last year, hunters purchased 5,382 fall turkey permits and registered 953 birds. This year's 30-day season begins Sept. 29 and runs through Oct. 28.

Licenses may be purchased at any time before or during the season at DNR license agents, online or by phone at 888-665-4236.