Options Outdoors, in coordination with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, will hold the 31st annual Rydell Accessible Deer Hunt at the Rydell National Wildlife Refuge from October 15-17.
This annual hunt is open to hunters with permanent disabilities or those experiencing the frailties of aging. Hunters must have a valid 2026 Minnesota Firearms Deer License if using a gun or an Archery License if using a bow or crossbow. Hunters will be allowed to take one deer of either sex during the hunt. Up to 20 hunters may hunt on the refuge at one time, so spots are limited.
Applications for this hunt are available via the QR code below and must be postmarked or returned to Options at 318 3rd Street NW in East Grand Forks by 5:00 p.m. on September 9 to be eligible for the hunt. If more than 20 applications are received, a selection process/drawing will take place, and those not chosen will be placed on an alternate list in case of cancellations.
An assistant may accompany each hunter during the hunt, as deemed necessary. The unlicensed assistant may discharge a firearm to dispatch a wounded deer if needed. If a hunter does not have an assistant available, Options may assign a volunteer to assist a hunter upon request.
Options Outdoors is also seeking volunteers to help with setup for the September 25 hunt and the October 15-17 hunting dates. Anyone interested in volunteering can scan the applicable QR code below or call 800-726-3692 and ask for Heather.
