West central Minnesota counties mixed on rifles, shotguns for 2026 deer season

West central Minnesota counties mixed on rifles, shotguns for 2026 deer season

WILLMAR — It’s looking like it could be a mixed bag for area deer hunters during the 2026 firearm season. One area county so far is opting to remain a shotgun-only zone. Three counties have taken no action and are allowing the new state law permitting the “use of all legal rifles and shotguns” to be in effect within their boundaries. Others have not yet made a decision. The Pope County Board of Commissioners voted last month for the county to re…