Shed Hunting Tips for the Boundary Waters

by Jake Dahlke

Spring is a great time to stumble across shed antlers in and around the Boundary Waters. Finding a shed antler in the BWCA is akin to discovering a giant Lake Superior agate along Minnesota’s North Shore. It’s not the most common occurrence, but if you’re lucky enough to cross paths with these elusive north country gems, it’s like finding buried treasure. 

Across the country, shed antler “hunting” is a tradition for many. In southern parts of Minnesota, you can be very successful while shed hunting due to higher deer densities. The further north you find yourself, the more challenging it can be to find a trophy shed. However, successful shed hunting in such a challenging location makes finding an antler in northern Minnesota that much more rewarding. On top of that, the added bonus of discovering a moose antler is something you just can’t find in most other places!

Below are few tips to keep in mind to help you get an edge when looking for sheds. 

Look for winter food sources

Deer in Minnesota typically tend to drop their antlers around mid to late winter. During that time, they will be hanging closely around any concentrated food sources. If you can’t locate any direct food sources, clear cuts are another great place to look. 

Keep an eye out for bedding areas

“Deer love conifer stands for bedding if available for cover, especially when that cover is southern facing”, noted avid shed hunter and Duluth resident David Olson. Olson also mentioned that if you are not in an area with a lot of conifers, the next thickest cover is best in terms of locating a bedding area. 

Use binoculars

Most people bring binoculars with them on their BWCA trips to watch for birds and other wildlife. Binoculars can also be a great tool for spotting hidden pieces of antler poking out from thawing snow! As you make your way through those bedding areas, clear cuts, and food sources, take a minute to glass the surrounding area with your binoculars. You’ll be surprised what you might have missed otherwise!

As you hit the trail this Spring and embark upon your BWCA adventures, utilize these tips and keep a keen eye out for shed antlers. Leave No Trace principles should be considered by any group headed out on a BWCA trip. Please help to keep the area clean and wild for the group that uses a campsite, crosses a portage or paddles by a Boundary Waters shoreline after you. 

A good phrase to keep in mind while shed hunting is to “leave what you find”. Leaving what you find in the BWCA means everything from leaving a shed you find in its original location, to leaving live trees as they are and avoiding any damage to trees or plants, such as carving initials in tree trunks or cutting live branches. If you are lucky enough to find a shed, take your time to admire it, but leave it behind for others to discover. 

 Just like the catch and release of a trophy lake trout, not all things need to be kept to be enjoyed!

Photos taken by David Olson 

Categorised in: Blog, Hunting, Uncategorized