Pheasant Seasons Set to Open in Minnesota, Pennsylvania

Minnesota’s pheasant season opens Oct. 10 and runs through Jan. 3, 2027; state wildlife officials report pheasant numbers 25% to 30% above last year, with the strongest counts in western and southwestern Minnesota, though warm, windy weather and standing crops may make early hunting slower. Hunters are encouraged to secure licenses ahead of time because Minnesota’s new electronic licensing system may take extra time for first-time users. In South Dakota, rising small-game license sales signal growing enthusiasm ahead of the season, while crop harvest is expected to create additional hunting opportunities. Pennsylvania’s junior season starts Oct. 10, followed by the statewide season Oct. 24; hunters will have more days this year, including all 21 Sundays and an extra two weeks during firearms deer season. The Pennsylvania Game Commission plans to stock about 232,000 pheasants through early January, with releases timed to support hunting from the opening period into late season.