When is deer gun season in Wisconsin?

When is Deer Gun Season in Wisconsin?

Deer gun season, also known as the general firearms season, is the most anticipated time of year for Wisconsin’s deer hunters. Each year, thousands of people take to the woods of Wisconsin to test their hunting skills and pursue their prey during the designated dates. If you’re wondering when you can grab your rifle and head out for some hunting fun, we’ve got the answer!

Important Dates to Mark Down

Wisconsin’s deer gun season typically occurs in November each year, with the specific dates changing annually. However, for your planning convenience, we’ll outline the common patterns of deer gun seasons in the Badger State.

Here’s a quick overview:

Youth Hunting and Antlerless seasons

Before deer gun season opens, youth hunters, accompanied by experienced mentors, get a chance to target buck deer in October and early November. The Youth Deer Season usually starts about two weeks before deer gun season, allowing these young hunters to gain experience and connect with their future generations.

Another important highlight is Antlerless only periods, which help maintain Wisconsin’s deer herd balance and management goals. These hunting seasons typically coincide with youth season and last around a week or ten days, usually in mid-to-late October. These dedicated hunting periods prioritize antlerless deer and control herd growth, improve hunter opportunity, and support urban wildlife management efforts.

Hunt Types: What to Know

While Deer Gun Season is the most sought-after time, there are additional hunt opportunities available, categorized into types based on gear, gender, or license restrictions. Understand these definitions to plan and enjoy the various hunting opportunities in Wisconsin:

• Baiting and Cereally Feed: Licensed deer managers or landowners with 40 acres (16 ha) or less may attract deer using authorized food plots.
• Private Hunting Preserve: Crown and private shooting preserve members may hunt their deer herds from early to mid-September through April, with annual permit costs varying.
• Late Fall Antlerless Gun Deer Season (Optional): Choose one area from the table below; licenses are auctioned, offering a third shot for limited tags.

Additional Factors to Keep in Mind

• Always review the annual Regulations Digest and/or License to Hunt & Fish guidebook (issued upon purchase) or online information before heading into the fields.
• Prioritize and maintain physical conditioning and firearm proficiency, especially with long-range firearms and moving deer.
• Practice safety first: check weather and clothing, dress accordingly; always wear the standard-issue orange reflective material on hats, belts, or coats while hunting and/or in any wooded or wild areas where firearms might be present.

Your Last-Minute Tasks: Before Opening Day

Don’t be left waiting! Ensure the following pre-opening tasks before grabbing your firearm and hit the woods:

• Check your permit or hunting license for compliance.
• Prepare your vehicle for emergency towing or vehicle-related roadside services.
• Carry waterproof, wind, and shockproof storage pouches containing important documents like hunting regulations, maps, and proof of insurance.

Now you know when the deer gun season is in Wisconsin, and all the critical dates, as well as different hunting opportunities for deer gun enthusiasts. Happy hunting!

References:

• Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. (2022). Hunting Regulations Digest.

• Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. (2022). Licensing Information.

Please note: Information is current and reliable but may not reflect upcoming season changes; check relevant resources for future updates!