The Minnesota DNR has released a two-year review on how expanded crossbow use has affected deer and turkey hunting across the state. The results? So far, there’s no evidence that crossbows are negatively impacting Minnesota’s game populations.
Key Takeaways
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No negative impact: After two full seasons of allowing all archery hunters to use crossbows, the DNR found no major changes in deer or turkey numbers statewide.
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Deer harvest steady: Success rates for deer hunters using archery equipment have stayed consistent with the 10-year averages before the crossbow expansion.
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Turkey numbers strong: Archery hunters continue to make up about 15% of the overall turkey harvest, with only a small portion of those using crossbows — and populations remain stable.
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Helping slow the decline of hunters: The crossbow option is helping pause or slow the decline of hunters in Minnesota, especially among women and youth. In 2023-24, about 64% of female deer archery hunters used crossbows compared to 46% of men.
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Healthy harvest, healthy herds: Even in limited-permit areas, where harvests are carefully managed, there’s no sign of over-harvest or herd decline due to crossbow use.
What It Means for Minnesota Bowhunters
Regardless of how you feel about crossbow use in Minnesota, the facts so far show no negative impact on deer or turkey populations. The data instead points to steady harvest numbers, stable herds, and a positive role in keeping more hunters — especially new and returning ones — active in the field.
What’s Next
The DNR will continue to monitor harvest and population trends over the coming years, but early data shows that crossbows are not harming Minnesota’s wildlife. Instead, they appear to be helping maintain hunter participation and ensuring more Minnesotans can enjoy archery season.
For now, that’s good news for everyone who supports ethical hunting and healthy deer and turkey populations.
