LYON COUNTY, MN — Lyon County will allow deer hunting with rifles beginning with the 2026 deer season after county commissioners voted Tuesday to follow a new state law permitting rifle hunting on public land.
The decision passed on a 3-2 vote during the Lyon County Board meeting, though commissioners were divided and expressed frustration about being required to decide whether to opt out of the state law. Commissioners said they received feedback from residents both supporting and opposing the change from shotgun-only hunting.
Under the new Minnesota law, rifle hunting for deer will be allowed statewide starting in 2026. Counties currently designated as shotgun-only zones, including Lyon County, have the option to opt out. Commissioners said the law leaves local governments in a difficult position and could lead to inconsistent rules across southern Minnesota.
Some commissioners raised concerns about confusion created by a patchwork of counties with differing regulations, while others noted that rifles and pistols are already used locally for coyote hunting without issues. Several board members indicated they preferred allowing the law to take effect rather than opting out.
The motion to take no action and allow rifle hunting under the new law passed 3-2. Commissioners Rick Anderson and Thomas Andries voted against the measure.
