So, I’m counting on Snow to unite the two divided camps of deer hunters: those who hunt in the big woods with grandaddy’s old rifle vs. those who hunt in open country with the latest and greatest rig.

The 2026 deer firearm season and the possible use of rifles in Minnesota’s southern counties was the biggest topic at the show, but many are waiting on opt-out decisions by individual counties.

For a good part of the season, deer hunting can be as much an obsession as it is enjoyment. Why else would anyone spend so many hours sitting in a tree? But when the rut is over in the North Country; ...