Wisconsin Hunting Seasons & Licensing: What You Need To Know

Wisconsin offers a variety of hunting seasons for residents and nonresidents. Whether you're a first-time hunter or an experienced outdoorsman, it's important to know the regulations and licensing requirements for the game you plan to hunt.

In this blog post, we will provide an overview of Wisconsin's hunting seasons and licensing procedures. We'll also answer some common questions about hunting in the Badger State.

So if you're ready to take your next hunting trip to Wisconsin, read on for all the information you need!

Hunting In Wisconsin

Wisconsin is known for its hunting opportunities, and the state offers several different hunting seasons throughout the year. Deer, bear, wolf, and turkey are all popular game animals in Wisconsin, and hunters can take advantage of the state's many hunting areas to pursue their quarry.

Wisconsin's deer hunting season typically runs from October through December, with the peak of the season occurring in November. Bear hunting season usually runs from September through October, while wolf hunting season typically extends from November through April. Turkey hunting season in Wisconsin typically runs from April through May.

Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a first-time outdoorsman, Wisconsin offers ample opportunity to enjoy the sport of hunting. So get out there and enjoy the great outdoors!

Wisconsin Deer Seasons

Archery and Crossbow	Sept. 18-Jan. 9
Disabled Hunters	Oct. 2-10
Youth Deer	Oct. 9-10
Firearms	Nov. 20-28
Muzzleloader	Nov. 29-Dec. 8
December Antlerless	Dec. 9-12
Holiday Hunt	Dec. 24-Jan. 1

Deer permits are required, only one deer may be harvested per permit. Because of Chronic Wasting Disease, deer harvested in disease management zones are considered “bonus bucks” and can be tagged for free. Note that disabled hunter deer seasons are not statewide, and are limited to private property sponsored by landowners. For more information on how to apply for a disabled hunter season, or to give hunters with disabilities the opportunity to hunt on your property, visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website.

Wisconsin Bear Seasons

Zones C, E, F (No Dogs)	Sept. 8-Oct. 12
Dog-Permitted Zones	Sept. 8-14 (dogs only) Sept. 15-Oct. 5 (dogs and bait) Sept. 6-12 (bait only)

Four bear hunting zones are available, but regulations differ by region. Be sure to visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for clarification on specific regulations.

Wisconsin Turkey Seasons

Fall General Season

Zones 1-5: Sept. 18-Jan. 9
Zones 6-7: Sept. 18-Nov. 19

**Season dates vary by zone. For more information, visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Wisconsin Small Game Seasons

Cottontail Rabbit	Northern zone: Sept. 18-Feb. 28 Southern zone: Oct. 16-Feb. 28 Milwaukee County: Open Season
Squirrel	Sept. 18-Jan. 31
Pheasant	Oct. 16-Jan. 9
Quail	Oct. 16-Dec. 8
Ruffed Grouse	Zone A: Sept. 18-Jan. 9 Zone B: Oct. 16-Dec. 8
Hungarian Partridge	Oct. 16-Jan. 9**

How To Get A Hunting License In Wisconsin?

Depending on your age, you may be required to have the Hunter Education Safety Certificate in order to legally buy a license or permit to hunt.

Complete the Wisconsin hunter education certification requirements.
Choose the correct license type.
Buy the license through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website or a Wisconsin–approved agent.

Wisconsin License Expiration

Hunting licenses are good from April 1 to March 31 of the next year.

Where to Buy a Wisconsin Hunting License

Visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website.
Call 1-888-WDNRINFo (1-888-936-7463).
Visit a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources office or an approved license sales location.

Hunting may be limited or closed to specific counties. For more information on planning your legal hunt, visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Bag limits, special seasons and hunting regulations for Wisconsin hunting seasons do vary based on animal and seasons. For more information on obtaining licenses, permits and regulations, visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website.