Minnesota moose hunters had registered a total of 79 bulls through the first ten days of the season, setting a pace identical to last year. Most of the moose were registered in the DNR’s Two Harbors work area, which includes the southern half of Lake County and all of Cook County, where 57 moose have been taken so far. A total of 21 moose have been registered in the Tower work area, which includes much of northern St. Louis and Lake counties. One moose was registered in the Orr work area.

The bulls-only hunt opened Oct. 3 and runs through Sunday, Oct. 18. Hunters faced wet and very windy conditions over the opening weekend of the moose season. Through the first 10 days of the hunting season, precipitation was recorded on seven days and four days had wind gusts in excess of 20 mph. Snow fell over the second weekend of the hunt and temperatures fell well below average, offering challenging conditions for hunters.

The cold weather did help increase rut activity, however, which is normally suppressed by warm weather. Hunters reported good moose rutting activity as bulls pursued cows. 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 normal through the opening week of October. Many successful hunters utilized calling to bring their moose within range.

In 2009, 5,783 applicants or 2,705 parties of from 2 to 4 hunters applied for the 225 available state permits. The northeast moose population is estimated at 7,600 animals and the allowable harvest is set at 5 percent, which is divided among state and tribal hunters. In 2008, state licensed hunters killed 111 bull moose, and had registered 79 animals through the first ten days of the season, identical to this year’s hunt. Hunting party success in 2008 was 47 percent.

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.