Mink and Muskrat

Season Dates

Northern Zone: Oct. 24, 2026 – April 15, 2027

Central Zone: Oct. 31, 2026 – March 22, 2027

Southern Zone: Nov. 7, 2026 – March 15, 2027

Mississippi River Zone:* Nov. 9, 2026 – March 7, 2027

Note: During the closed season for muskrats, licensed trappers may retain for salvage any muskrats taken incidentally while trapping for beaver in the portions of the state open to beaver trapping. See rules listed under “trap size and placement restrictions” on the DNR's Body Grip Traps webpage. 

*Permits are required and special regulations apply. See the DNR's Land Type-Specific Regulations webpage.

Zone Map

Check out the Map of Mink and Muskrat Management Zones. The northern zone is north of highway 64, while the southern zone is south of highways 60, 14, 12 19 and 94 (from left to right). The central zone comprises the area between the northern and southern zones, except for the area occupied by the Mississippi River Zone (west of the Chippewa River and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad).

Bag Limits

No bag limit statewide.

Application And License Requirements

What you need to trap mink and muskrat:

• A current and valid trapping authorization is required unless exempt under landowner provisions. See the DNR's License and Permit's webpage for more information. Mink are not included in landowner provisions.