Hunting lease revenues are income, in addition to agricultural or timber activities, on private lands. On many farms and ranches the annual sustained income from hunting greatly exceeds the income from cattle and/or farming operations.
Minnesota Hunting and Fishing Lease — Land or Property is a legal agreement between a landowner and a lessee, allowing the lessee the exclusive rights to hunt and fish on the designated property for a specified period. This lease provides hunters and anglers with the opportunity to access private land for recreational activities, ensuring they can enjoy their hobbies in pristine natural settings. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) regulates and monitors hunting and fishing activities on private land through this lease system. Individuals or groups can apply to lease specific tracts of land, which vary in size and geographical features across the state. These leased properties provide diverse habitats for various game species, making them popular among hunting and fishing enthusiasts. The Minnesota Hunting and Fishing Lease program encompasses different types of land or property leases, each offering unique opportunities for outdoor activities: 1. Farmland Leases: These leases comprise vast agricultural lands with fields, meadows, and crop areas. They often attract hunters targeting waterfowl, pheasants, deer, and small game species. Anglers can also enjoy fishing in ponds, lakes, or rivers located within or adjacent to the farmland. 2. Woodland Leases: These leases cover wooded areas, forests, or timberland, providing prime hunting grounds for deer, turkeys, grouse, and other game animals that thrive in such habitats. Additionally, there might be nearby lakes or streams suitable for fishing. 3. Wetland Leases: These leases include marshes, swamps, and wet areas, making them desirable for waterfowl hunters seeking ducks and geese. Some wetland leases may also have access to lakes or rivers, allowing anglers to fish for various species. 4. Lake shore Leases: These leases are located along the shores of lakes, offering exclusive fishing rights to lessees. Anglers can target a wide range of fish species like walleye, bass, muskie, and pan fish. Some lake shore leases may also permit hunting, particularly for waterfowl. Leases are typically available for a specific hunting or fishing season, such as fall hunting, spring turkey hunting, or ice fishing. Lessees must abide by all state and local regulations, including bag limits, license requirements, and safety guidelines, ensuring the responsible and sustainable use of these leased lands. The fees for these leases vary depending on the size, location, and recreational opportunities provided by the property. In summary, the Minnesota Hunting and Fishing Lease — Land or Property program grants hunters and anglers the chance to access privately-owned lands for their recreational pursuits. With various types of leases available, individuals can select properties based on their preferred activities and target species, enhancing their outdoor experiences while contributing to wildlife conservation efforts.
