Wisconsin Hunting Seasons Information and Regulations

*All information listed below is disclosed based on research we have conducted. We do our best to ensure that all information is up to date and accurate. However, rules and regulations are changing every day. Please make sure to verify your state-specific regulations prior to your hunt.

Hunting season in Wisconsin starts on the first Saturday of September and runs through early January. This hunting season provides great opportunities for small game, waterfowl, deer, and turkey hunting. In order to legally hunt in Wisconsin, you must have a hunting license specific to the type of hunting that you plan to do. Additionally, laws concerning hunting dates, hunting zones and bag limits must be followed in order to ensure the sustainability of wildlife populations. Hunting education courses are available for those who wish to learn more about hunting safety and regulations. These courses provide invaluable information on hunting laws, hunting techniques, proper firearm handling, and much more. With a valid hunting license and knowledge of hunting safety, hunting in Wisconsin can be an enjoyable and responsible experience.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources provides helpful information about hunting season and hunting regulations. Be sure to check it out before heading out on your hunting adventure! Good luck and happy hunting!

Wisconsin Deer Seasons

Archery and Crossbow	Sept. 17 – Jan. 8
Disabled Hunters	Oct. 1 – Oct. 9
Youth Deer	Oct. 8 – Oct. 9
Firearms	Nov. 19 – Nov. 27
Muzzleloader	Nov. 28 – Dec. 7
December Antlerless	Dec. 8 – Dec. 11
Holiday Hunt	Dec. 24 – Jan. 1

*To hunt deer in the state of Wisconsin, you must have a permit and can only take one animal per license. Moreover, if it is from an area with Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), it’s classed as a “bonus buck” and doesn’t require tagging fees. Note that there are restricted Disabled Hunter Seasons for private land sponsored by landowners; to apply or give hunters with disabilities the chance to hunt on your property visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website for more details.

Wisconsin Bear Seasons

Zones C, E, F (No Dogs)	Sept. 7 – Oct. 11
Dog-Permitted Zones	Sept. 7 – Sept. 11

*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	Sept. 17 – Jan. 8
Spring 2023 General Season	Apr. 19 – May 30

*The dates of hunting seasons can vary depending on the region, and hunting may only be allowed in certain counties. To get more information on hunting regulations in Wisconsin, it’s recommended to check the website of the visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Wisconsin Small Game Seasons

Cottontail Rabbit	Sept. 17 – Feb. 28 Year-round in Milwaukee Co.
Squirrel	Sept. 17 – Feb. 28
Pheasant	Oct. 15 – Jan. 8
Quail	Oct. 15 – Dec. 7
Ruffed Grouse	Sept. 17 – Jan. 8
Hungarian Partridge	Oct. 15 – Jan. 8

Wisconsin Crossbow Regulations

Crossbow Specific Regulations: In June 2013, Bill AB 194 was introduced to make crossbows legal to unt with during entire archery season, based on a special crossbow permit. This bill, however, is not in effect yet, as it still has not been officially approved by the Senate, where a hearing on the matter is scheduled for August 2013. If and when the bill passes, those who already own an archery permit in Wisconsin, can receive a crossbow permit for a significantly reduced cost. A crossbow permit will only be obtainable by those who successfully complete bow hunter education classes or an equivalent. The bill will make it possible for crossbow owners to hunt for all game, except for Elk, Bear and Wild Turkey.

Wisconsin Hunting License

If you plan to hunt in Wisconsin, it is important to understand the hunting license requirements. A hunting license is needed for hunting small and large game animals, including deer, bear, and turkey. Hunting licenses are available for purchase at any Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources office or from an authorized hunting license agent.

It is important to remember that hunting license regulations vary depending on the species of animal being hunted. For example, hunting licenses for deer hunting in Wisconsin require additional permits, such as an archery stamp or deer carcass tag. Before hunting, all hunters should familiarize themselves with the hunting laws and regulations in Wisconsin to ensure a safe and legal hunting experience.

If you want to check out the next state on our list, click here to see Wyoming.

Or, you can check out the last state on our list, West Virginia .