2006 northeastern Minnesota moose hunt off to good start
(2006-10-12)
During the first 10 days of the 2006 moose-hunting season in northeastern
Minnesota, which opened September 30, hunters registered 129 moose at eight
registration stations scattered across Cook, Lake and St. Louis counties.
In the 2006 lottery, 279 once-in-a-lifetime moose tags were issued in 30
zones. Moose hunting is limited to parties of two to four hunters.
Hunters faced fairly normal fall weather conditions during the first week of
the season. Mild days and cool nights with no major storms made for good
hunting conditions. Hunting success was up from 2005, when after the second
week 113 moose had been harvested. Harvest was heavily biased toward adult
bulls, which is typical early in the hunt, according to Department of
Natural Resources (DNR) wildlife managers.
Hunters reported good moose rutting activity as the week progressed. The
breeding period normally kicks into gear in late September and continues for
three to four weeks. Minnesota’s peak rutting occurs the first two weeks of
October. Hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts reported moose activity was
“fair to good” through the opening week of October. Many successful hunters
utilized calling to bring their moose within range.
Moose rutting activity is normally suppressed by above average fall
temperatures. Daily temperatures pushed into the 70s in moose country on
more than one day. Moose activity generally tends toward early and late in
the day when it gets warm. DNR officials said hunters can look forward to
good hunting opportunities with cooler weather moving into northeastern
Minnesota later in the season.
The bag limit is one moose of any age or sex per party. Only Minnesota
residents, at least 16 years of age, are eligible for the moose hunt. The
2006 season closes October 15.
In 2006, almost 7,000 applicants applied for the 279 available state
permits. In 2005, state licensed hunters killed 136 bulls and 27 cows for a
total of 163 moose. Hunting party success was 57 percent, the lowest rate
since the modern moose season began in 1971.
Moose viewing is gaining in popularity in northeastern Minnesota. The DNR
warns that non-hunters should exercise caution while pursuing moose photo
and viewing opportunities. A blaze orange outer garment or cap is
recommended. Rutting moose can be very aggressive, so observers should use
caution and give the moose plenty of room.
2006 Moose Hunt 10-Day Tally
Two harbors: 90
Tower: 34
Orr: 5
10-Day Total: 129 (thru 10/9/2006)
For more information, contacts: Tom Rusch, Tower Area Wildlife Manager,
(218) 753-2580, ext. 240
Bob Kirsch, Two Harbors Area Wildlife Manger, (218) 834-6619.
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