Wisconsin boasts a rich tradition of hunting, making it a favorite destination among hunting enthusiasts. The state offers an extensive range of game species and hunting opportunities, with several hunting seasons taking place throughout the year. Below, we'll take a look at six of the most popular Wisconsin hunting seasons, which are characterized by diverse game species and challenging hunting conditions.
Deer Hunting Season
Wisconsin's deer hunting season, which typically runs from mid-November to the end of November, is a thrilling opportunity for hunters to harvest both antlered and antlerless deer. The state has a healthy population of white-tailed deer, and additional hunting opportunities are available for disabled hunters, youth, and military personnel.
Turkey Hunting Season
Wisconsin's wild turkey population is sizeable, making it a prime location for turkey hunting. The hunting season, which typically occurs in April and May, offers an opportunity to harvest both male and female turkeys. Wisconsin also hosts a Youth Turkey Hunt, which is a fantastic opportunity for young hunters.
Waterfowl Hunting Season
Wisconsin's diverse array of waterfowl species, including ducks, geese, and swans, make it a prime destination for waterfowl hunting. The hunting season usually occurs from September to December, with additional early seasons for geese and teal. Hunters can pursue waterfowl on both public and private lands, and federal lands have their own specific regulations for hunting.
Small Game Hunting Season
The small game hunting season in Wisconsin is a great opportunity to pursue a variety of species such as rabbits, squirrels, and pheasants. Furbearers, such as raccoons and foxes, can also be hunted year-round. The season typically runs from mid-September to the end of March.
Bear Hunting Season
Black bear hunting is another popular hunting season in Wisconsin. The hunting season typically takes place from September to October, and hunters can pursue bears on public and private lands. To participate, hunters must have a bear hunting license and adhere to specific regulations. Disabled hunters and youth also have separate hunting opportunities.
Elk Hunting Season
Elk hunting is a relatively new addition to Wisconsin's hunting season, with the first hunt taking place in 2018. The season typically runs in September, and hunters can pursue elk on public and private lands. However, permits are limited, and hunters must apply through a lottery system.
Upland Game Hunting Season
Upland game hunting in Wisconsin includes various game birds, such as grouse, quail, and partridge. The season typically runs from mid-September to the end of December, and some areas offer separate seasons for pheasant hunting.
Wolf Hunting Season
Wolf hunting is a controversial hunting season in Wisconsin, and the state allows limited hunting permits in specific areas. The hunting season usually occurs from November to February, and hunters must follow strict regulations and report their harvest.
In conclusion, Wisconsin offers a plethora of hunting opportunities for avid hunting enthusiasts. These eight hunting seasons are just a glimpse of the many species and seasons that the state has to offer. However, it's crucial to follow all hunting regulations and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
