When is Gun Season in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is a popular destination for deer hunting, with over 600,000 licenses issued each year. The state offers a variety of gun seasons for deer, archery, and muzzleloader hunters. In this article, we’ll provide you with the dates and information you need to plan your next Wisconsin deer hunting trip.
When is Gun Season in Wisconsin?
Gun season in Wisconsin typically takes place in early November and mid-December. The specific dates vary depending on the zone and type of deer being hunted. Here’s a breakdown of the 2022-2023 gun deer season in Wisconsin:
| Zone | Season Dates |
|---|---|
| North Zone | November 12-20, 2022 |
| Central Zone | November 12-20, 2022 |
| South Zone | November 12-20, 2022 |
What to Know About Gun Season in Wisconsin
Before you head out to hunt, make sure you’re aware of the following:
- License Requirements: You must have a valid Wisconsin deer hunting license to participate in gun season. You can purchase licenses online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or at a license vendor.
- Harvest Limits: Each hunter is allowed to harvest one antlered deer during the gun season. Note: If you harvest an antlered deer, you must immediately fill out the back of the tag and attach it to the deer.
- Daily Bag Limit: There is no daily bag limit for antlerless deer, but you can only harvest one antlered deer per day.
- Hunting Hours: Hunting hours for gun season are from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset.
- Legal Harvest Methods: The only legal harvest methods during gun season are muzzleloaders and firearms that meet the minimum caliber and energy requirements.
Hunting Zones in Wisconsin
Wisconsin is divided into three hunting zones: North, Central, and South. Each zone has its own specific regulations and seasons. Here’s a breakdown of the zones:
- North Zone: Includes Ashland, Bayfield, Burnett, Douglas, Iron, Sawyer, and Washburn counties.
- Central Zone: Includes Chippewa, Dunn, Eau Claire, Polk, Rusk, St. Croix, and Taylor counties.
- South Zone: Includes Adams, Columbia, Crawford, Green, Grant, Iowa, Juneau, La Crosse, Monroe, Richland, Sauk, Vernon, and Wood counties.
Other Important Dates
In addition to gun season, there are several other important dates to keep in mind when planning your Wisconsin deer hunt:
- Archery Season: Archery season typically takes place from late August to early November, depending on the zone and type of deer being hunted.
- Muzzleloader Season: Muzzleloader season usually takes place in late October and early November, depending on the zone and type of deer being hunted.
- Youth Gun Season: The youth gun season typically takes place in early October and is designed for youth hunters aged 12-17.
Tips and Reminders
Before heading out to hunt, make sure you have the following:
- Valid License: Make sure you have a valid Wisconsin deer hunting license.
- Firearm: Make sure your firearm meets the minimum caliber and energy requirements.
- Hunting Gear: Bring necessary gear such as a hunting blind, treestand, and scent cover.
- Land Access: Make sure you have permission to hunt on the land you plan to hunt.
- Hunting Buddy: Consider hunting with a buddy for safety and to share the experience.
Conclusion
Gun season in Wisconsin is a exciting time for deer hunters. With its vast wilderness areas and abundant deer population, Wisconsin offers some of the best deer hunting in the country. By understanding the specific regulations and seasons in your zone, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your next Wisconsin deer hunting trip. Remember to always follow safety guidelines and respect the land and wildlife you’re hunting. Happy hunting!
