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Friday, October 2nd, 2026

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Looking back on 40 years on the autumn grouse trail

Pat Miller (left) and long-time friend Pat Welle have hunted Minnesota's ruffed grouse opener for most of the past 40 years. They spent this year’s opening day in the Chippewa National Forest. Both are in their 70s and their perspectives on a successful hunt have changed. (Photo by Pat Miller)

Folks who spend much of their free time outdoors often align their schedules around traditional events. Many anglers set aside the second Saturday of May because that weekend usually pairs with Minnesota’s walleye and northern pike openers.
The second weekend of November also merits special attention because it customarily marks the opening of the state’s firearms deer season. For Pat Welle and me, opening day of the ruffed grouse season is one of those special days of the year.

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