No, bear wrestling is not explicitly illegal as a standalone activity in Minnesota—unlike Missouri’s targeted statute (RSMo 578.176). Minnesota relies on broader animal cruelty laws (Minn. Stat. § 343.21) that prohibit fighting, tormenting, or depriving animals of necessary care, which would likely cover organized bear wrestling if it involves harm.
Animal Cruelty Coverage
Participating in, promoting, or staging bear fights falls under Class 1 misdemeanor cruelty offenses, escalating to felonies for repeat violations or severe injury—similar to protections against dogfighting.
No specific “bear wrestling” ban exists in Minnesota statutes, but general prohibitions on baiting or contests releasing animals for capture (e.g., pigs, chickens) apply via game laws.
Other Prohibited Activities
Minnesota bans contests where participants chase or capture released pigs, chickens, or turkeys as “cruelty to animals.”
Hunting bears requires licenses and registration within 48 hours; baiting is regulated but legal in season.
Urban myths exaggerate these into “weird” absolutes, but enforcement targets abuse, not hypothetical wrestling.
