MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Minnesota Wild Rice Harvest Opens With Above-Average Crop Outlook

SAINT PAUL, MN (August 16, 2026) Minnesota’s annual wild rice harvesting season opened Saturday, August 15, with early field reports indicating an above-average statewide crop, although the condition and maturity of rice vary among individual lakes and rivers.

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources wildlife lake specialist Ann Geisen said reported conditions range from fair to excellent. Harvesters are encouraged to scout prospective waters because a favorable statewide outlook does not mean every rice bed is mature or ready for harvesting.

The state season runs through September 30. Harvesting is permitted from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. daily.

Minnesota’s green-rice law prohibits harvesting wild rice before it is ripe, even during the legally established season. Harvesters should confirm that the grain falls easily from its stalk before attempting to collect it.

Licensing and equipment requirements

Most harvesters must obtain a Minnesota wild rice harvesting license. Minnesota residents younger than 18 are exempt when accompanied by a licensed harvester.

Members of federally recognized Tribal nations located in Minnesota may use valid Tribal identification in place of an additional state harvesting license. Separate access and harvesting rules may apply within reservation boundaries.

Traditional harvesting generally must be conducted from a nonmotorized watercraft no longer than 18 feet and no wider than 36 inches.

Push poles must have a forked end with forks measuring less than 12 inches. Harvesting sticks, also known as flails or knockers, must be made from round, smooth wood. They may not exceed 30 inches in length or weigh more than one pound.

Mechanical harvesting is generally prohibited on public waters.

Preventing invasive-species movement

The DNR is reminding harvesters that canoes, paddles, push poles, harvesting sticks, trailers and other equipment can transport aquatic plants and invasive organisms between waters.

All aquatic vegetation must be removed from watercraft and equipment before leaving a lake or river. Equipment should be inspected and thoroughly cleaned before it is used on another body of water.

Harvesters should also confirm local regulations before traveling. Wild rice harvesting may be restricted in national parks, national wildlife refuges, reservation waters and other specially managed areas.

Complete rules and licensing information are available through the Minnesota DNR wild rice regulations page.

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