REGIONAL- The first of two Minnesota Department of Natural Resources online auctions of confiscated hunting, fishing, and trapping equipment opens for bidding Friday, Aug. 28, and runs through Monday, Aug. 31.
The auction is expected to include approximately 130 to 140 firearms, 40 to 50 bows, and an assortment of hunting and fishing equipment and accessories confiscated following serious game and fish violations.
The complete catalog, including photographs and descriptions of each item, will be posted Thursday, Aug. 27, at hillerauction.com. Bidding opens at 8 a.m. Friday and begins closing at 5 p.m. Monday.
An in-person inspection will be offered from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday at Hiller Auction Service in Zimmerman. All purchases must be picked up at the Zimmerman location. Shipping is not available. Pickup hours will be from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1, and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 2.
There is no buyer’s premium, although Minnesota sales tax will be charged. All items are sold as-is and cannot be returned. Anyone purchasing a firearm must successfully complete a federal background check before taking possession.
The second auction catalog will be posted Thursday, Sept. 24, with bidding opening Friday, Sept. 25, and beginning to close at 5 p.m. Monday, Sept. 28. An in-person inspection will be offered from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 25.
Revenue from the auctions is deposited in the state Game and Fish Fund, which supports fish and wildlife management and DNR law enforcement. Additional information is available at mndnr.gov/enforcement/auctions.