Minnesota has long been a premier destination for duck hunting, thanks to its diverse wetlands, lakes, and prime position along the Mississippi Flyway. With an abundance of public and private hunting areas, the state offers waterfowl hunters numerous opportunities to experience a successful and thrilling season. As 2025 approaches, hunters should be aware of the best locations to target for an optimal experience.

This guide focuses on the top duck hunting locations in Minnesota, including public lands, private spots, and prime migratory routes that will offer the best opportunities in the upcoming season.

1. Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge

Spanning over 240,000 acres, the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge is a waterfowl paradise. Located along the Mississippi Flyway, this region is crucial for migrating ducks and geese, making it one of the best public hunting grounds in Minnesota. The refuge is home to a mix of mallards, teal, wood ducks, and canvasbacks, particularly during peak migration in mid-fall.

Hunters here can set up along backwater sloughs, flooded timber, and grassy marshes, offering a diverse hunting experience. The best access points are near Winona, Wabasha, and La Crosse, where boat access is readily available.

Pro Tip:

The refuge has designated hunting areas and regulations to protect wildlife conservation efforts. Be sure to check local restrictions and waterfowl quotas before heading out.

2. Swan Lake – Nicollet County

Swan Lake, located in Nicollet County, is often called the “duck factory” of southern Minnesota. Covering 10,000 acres, this shallow marshy lake is ideal for diving ducks and dabblers such as mallards, pintails, and wigeons.

The area is managed as a Wildlife Management Area (WMA), making it open to public hunting. Its unique habitat provides excellent cover for hunters who prefer layout boats or shoreline blinds. Water levels can fluctuate, so scouting before the season is essential.

Pro Tip:

Hunters who arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon have the best success. Using a mix of motion decoys can also increase your chances of drawing in wary flocks.

3. Lac qui Parle Wildlife Management Area

The Lac qui Parle WMA, situated in western Minnesota, is known for its abundant duck populations and expansive wetlands. This region sees heavy migration activity in late September through November, making it an excellent stop for hunters targeting canvasbacks, redheads, and blue-winged teal.

The area provides multiple access points along Lac qui Parle Lake and Marsh Lake, where waterfowl congregate in large numbers. While public hunting is permitted, parts of the region are designated as refuges, so reviewing maps and regulations is crucial.

Pro Tip:

Try hunting the smaller backwaters and creek channels leading into the lake. These locations often hold ducks that have been pushed away from the main hunting pressure.

4. Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge

For hunters looking for a more remote and less pressured experience, Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent option. Located on the western border of the state, near Ortonville, this refuge consists of wetlands, grasslands, and small lakes, attracting gadwalls, blue-winged teal, and ring-necked ducks.

The refuge is known for its controlled hunting zones, meaning only certain areas are open for public hunting. While this limits access, it also provides higher-quality hunting experiences with fewer crowds.

Pro Tip:

The early-season teal and wood duck hunts here are excellent. If you’re targeting late-season ducks, focus on areas near shallow bays and flooded vegetation for the best results.

5. Mississippi River Backwaters – Pool 4 and 5

The Mississippi River backwaters in Pool 4 and Pool 5 offer some of the best flooded timber and open water hunting in the state. Located near Lake Pepin, this stretch of the river provides prime habitat for mallards, gadwalls, and diving ducks like scaup.

Access is best by boat, as many of the best hunting spots are located in the hidden sloughs and islands along the river. These locations allow for pass shooting and decoy spreads, depending on the time of year.

Pro Tip:

Using a mud motor or shallow-draft boat will help you navigate through the marshes where ducks tend to congregate. Be mindful of shifting water levels and check conditions before heading out.

6. Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area

Located just 45 minutes north of Minneapolis, Carlos Avery WMA is a popular choice for hunters in the Twin Cities metro area. Covering 23,000 acres, it features wetlands, small lakes, and flooded timber, making it ideal for wood ducks, mallards, and teal.

Due to its proximity to the metro area, Carlos Avery sees heavy pressure on opening weekend, but weekday hunts can still provide good opportunities with less competition.

Pro Tip:

Hunt deeper in the marsh areas where most hunters don’t venture. Using lightweight decoys and camo that blends into reeds will increase your success.

Conclusion

Minnesota remains one of the premier destinations for duck hunting in the Midwest, and 2025 is shaping up to be another excellent season. Whether you prefer the open waters of the Mississippi River, the expansive wetlands of Swan Lake, or the quiet seclusion of Big Stone NWR, there is no shortage of top-tier hunting spots.

Success in duck hunting often comes down to location, preparation, and strategy. Researching water levels, scouting before the season, and adapting your tactics based on weather and migration patterns can make all the difference.So pack your gear, grab your decoys, and get ready for an unforgettable duck hunting season in Minnesota’s best waterfowl hotspots!

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