SMSC Game and Fish Code
Every year, thousands seek out Minnesota hunting opportunities. Members of the SMSC and invited guests are welcome to enjoy the many activities available on SMSC land, including hunting and other recreation. We want to make sure that all members and guests are safe, and that they have access to the information they need in order to avoid citations or fines.
SMSC Conservation and Enforcement educates the public about rules and regulations and enforces conservation laws on SMSC lands. Conservation officers are authorized to cite SMSC members and members of the general public for hunting and fishing violations on SMSC lands, such as trespassing on non-hunting lands, baiting deer, and violating possession limits.
Game and Fish Ordinance FAQs
To hunt on SMSC lands, a person must hold a license issued by the SMSC Conservation and Enforcement. Eligible applicants must be a member of the SMSC or in the immediate family of a member. Anyone under age 16 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or adult family member. The SMSC’s game and fish code also allows for a one-day, non-member guest permit that requires the hunting guest to be accompanied by an SMSC member.
Eligible applicants must apply in person at the SMSC Conservation and Enforcement, located inside the SMSC’s Community Center at 2330 Sioux Trail Northwest in Prior Lake. The Community Center is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Migratory waterfowl hunters also need a Federal Duck Stamp. The Federal Duck Stamp can be purchased online, at select post offices, and other locations.
The SMSC has hunting seasons for deer, turkeys, pheasants, quail, migratory waterfowl such as ducks and geese, and small game such as rabbits and squirrels.
The SMSC sets its own game seasons, which presently mirror the dates set by the Minnesota DNR.
The SMSC’s conservation officers cite SMSC members for hunting and fishing violations in tribal court. Any members of the public who commit hunting and fishing violations are cited in Scott County court for state violations and federal court for federal violations.