Trapping License
Minnesota Trapping
License 2026
Complete guide to trapping licenses in Minnesota — resident and nonresident fees, trap check hours, regulated species, pelt reporting requirements, and bobcat or otter permit rules. Minnesota is one of the major fur-producing states in the U.S. with strong populations of mink, beaver, muskrat, raccoon, and otter. Pelt reporting is required and Minnesota participates in the CITES otter export quota program.
24-Hour Trap Check
Separate From Hunting License
Pelt Reporting Required
2026 Trapping License Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Fee
$25.75
Annual license
Nonresident Fee
$65.00
Annual license
Trap Check
24h
Max hours between checks
Junior Fee
$5.00
Youth/junior rate
License Details
Minnesota Trapping License Requirements
Minnesota requires a valid trapping license to trap furbearing animals. Review all requirements before setting traps.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Resident Fee | $25.75 |
| Nonresident Fee | $65.00 |
| Junior/Youth Fee | $5.00 |
| Separate From Hunting License | Yes — separate purchase required |
| Trapper Education Required | Not required |
| Trap Check Requirement | Every 24 hours |
| Trap Tagging Required | Not required |
| Pelt Reporting Required | Yes |
| Bobcat Permit Required | Not required |
| Otter Permit Required | Not required |
| Trap Type Restrictions | Conibear (body-gripping) traps allowed with size and location restrictions. Foothold traps allowed but restricted near roads and occupied buildings. |
| Water Set Minimum Depth | 6 |
Regulated Species
Trappable Species in Minnesota
The following furbearing species may be legally trapped in Minnesota with the appropriate license and during open seasons. Some species may require additional permits.
Season & Limits
Minnesota Trapping Season Dates & Bag Limits
Season Dates
mink: Oct 25 - Jan 1
otter: Oct 25 - Jan 15
beaver: Oct 25 - Apr 15
bobcat: Nov 10 - Jan 31
Bag Limits
otter: varies by zone
bobcat: varies by zone
Public Land Trapping
Trapping on Public Land in Minnesota
Trapping is allowed on most Minnesota state wildlife management areas and some state forests. Some county and city parks restrict or prohibit trapping. Trapping on private land requires landowner permission.
Important Notes
Minnesota-Specific Trapping Rules
Minnesota has a 2-night exception to the 24-hour trap check rule for sets on water or with certain trap types — check current regulations. Pelt sealing required for otter and fisher. Minnesota has one of the most comprehensive trapper education programs in the country.
Source: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (www.dnr.state.mn.us).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current fees, seasons, and permit requirements directly with the agency before trapping.