In Minnesota, certain veterans are eligible for free or discounted fishing licenses in 2024. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) offers various benefits to military personnel and veterans in appreciation of their service.
Free Lifetime Fishing License for 100% Disabled Minnesota Veterans
Minnesota residents who are veterans with a 100% service-connected disability, as defined by the United States Veterans Administration, are eligible for a free permanent angling license upon furnishing satisfactory evidence of their disability. This lifetime license is issued at no charge to qualifying Minnesota resident veterans.
Free Annual Hunting License for 100% Disabled Minnesota Veterans
In addition to the free lifetime fishing license, Minnesota veterans with a 100% service-connected disability also receive a free annual hunting license. This license is valid for one either-sex deer, except in buck-only areas.
Proof of Eligibility for Free Licenses
To receive the free lifetime fishing license and annual hunting license, Minnesota resident veterans with a 100% service-connected disability must provide satisfactory evidence of their disability from the U.S. Veterans Administration and proof of residency. This can be done by submitting the 100% Disabled Veteran Permanent Angling Application or the 100% Disabled Veteran License Permanent Card Application.
Other Veteran Benefits for Outdoor Recreation in Minnesota
In addition to the free fishing and hunting licenses for 100% disabled veterans, the Minnesota DNR offers other benefits for military personnel and veterans:
Nonresident spouses of Minnesota resident service members serving on active duty may purchase resident hunting and fishing licenses
Service members serving in the U.S. Armed Forces stationed in Minnesota, training at Camp Ripley, or serving in the Minnesota National Guard may purchase resident hunting and fishing licenses
Service members who have completed basic training and serve in the U.S. Armed Forces may obtain a hunting license or approval authorizing hunting even if they haven’t been issued a firearms safety certificate
The DNR offers a free two-year subscription to their Minnesota Conservation Volunteer Magazine to service members and veterans
The Minnesota DNR recognizes its role in supporting military personnel and veterans through outdoor recreation benefits. By offering free fishing and hunting licenses to 100% disabled veterans and other discounts for active-duty service members and veterans, the DNR aims to express its gratitude for their service and sacrifice.