WI

Hunting in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is deer camp country. From the hardwood forests and rolling farmland of southern Wisconsin to the vast timber and wetlands of the Northwoods, the state offers a classic Midwestern hunting experience with a wide range of game and habitat.

Whitetail deer are the centerpiece of Wisconsin hunting. The state has a long-standing deer hunting tradition, with opportunities across agricultural country, mixed hardwood forests, managed timber, and private properties. Whether you're looking for a traditional November deer camp experience or a guided hunt on private ground, Wisconsin offers plenty of opportunities to chase mature whitetails.

Black bear hunting is another major draw, particularly in northern Wisconsin. The state's extensive forests provide excellent bear habitat, and hunters can pursue black bears through regulated seasons and designated hunting opportunities.

Wild turkey hunting has also become an important part of Wisconsin's hunting tradition. Spring turkey hunters pursue gobblers throughout the state's forests, agricultural edges, and mixed habitat, with opportunities spread across multiple hunting periods and zones.

Wisconsin is also well known for its upland and waterfowl hunting. Ruffed grouse and woodcock are found throughout the northern forests, while ducks and geese can be pursued on the state's rivers, lakes, wetlands, and agricultural areas.

Small-game hunters can pursue squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, and other species, while predators such as coyote provide additional opportunities throughout the state.

Whether you're sitting in a Wisconsin deer stand during the rut, chasing a spring gobbler through the hardwoods, running grouse in the Northwoods, or setting up for a morning of waterfowl, Wisconsin offers a deep hunting tradition and plenty of ways to get into the field.

Wisconsin Tags & Licenses

Wisconsin hunting licenses and permits are administered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR). Hunters generally need a valid hunting license along with the appropriate authorization, tag, harvest authorization, or permit for the species and season they plan to hunt.

Whitetail deer hunters must follow the regulations for the applicable deer management zone, season, weapon, and license type. Wisconsin offers multiple deer hunting opportunities throughout the year, so hunters should confirm the current requirements for the specific season and area they plan to hunt.

Black bear hunting is a regulated opportunity with specific application, drawing, harvest authorization, and hunting-unit requirements. Hunters interested in a Wisconsin bear hunt should pay close attention to application periods and current regulations.

Wild turkey hunters must obtain the appropriate turkey authorization and follow the applicable season, zone, and permit requirements. Spring and fall turkey opportunities have different regulations, so hunters should review the current rules before planning a trip.

Waterfowl hunters must follow Wisconsin regulations as well as applicable federal migratory-bird requirements. Depending on the species, hunters may need additional state or federal stamps, registrations, or permits.

Upland and small-game hunters must also follow species-specific seasons, bag limits, and legal methods of take. Regulations can vary by species and hunting area.

Nonresident hunters can purchase applicable Wisconsin licenses and permits, although fees and requirements vary by species. Hunters booking a guided hunt should confirm which licenses, tags, permits, lodging, meals, and other trip components are included.

Wisconsin's hunting regulations, season dates, license requirements, hunting zones, and application periods can change from year to year. Hunters should review the current WDNR regulations before applying, booking travel, or heading into the field.

Species You Can Hunt in Wisconsin

Whitetail Deer

Bear

Turkey