State Guide

Wisconsin Hunting Guide

Complete Wisconsin hunting guide. Wisconsin hunting seasons, license costs, bag limits, and regulations for all major game species. Updated for the current season.

Wildlife Agency

Wisconsin DNR

Official Site

Hunter safety course required for first-time buyers

Wisconsin Hunting Seasons

Whitetail Deer

Res: $24 Non-res: $160

Season Type	Opens	Closes
Archery	Sep 16	Jan 7
Rifle	Nov 18	Nov 26
Muzzleloader	Nov 27	Dec 6

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 1 buck + antlerless with tags

Earn-a-Buck may apply in some units. CWD affected areas have special rules. Youth deer hunt weekend available.

Turkey

Res: $15 Non-res: $60

Season Type	Opens	Closes
Shotgun	Apr 12	May 28
Archery	Sep 16	Nov 14

Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 1

Spring season divided into 6 periods. Turkey permit required via preference system.

Duck/Waterfowl

Res: $24 Non-res: $160

Season Type	Opens	Closes
Shotgun	Sep 23	Nov 28

Bag limits: daily: 6, season: No season limit

Federal and state duck stamps required. Season split into zones. Early teal season in September.

Pheasant

Res: $24 Non-res: $160

Season Type	Opens	Closes
Shotgun	Oct 14	Dec 31

Bag limits: daily: 3, season: No limit

Pheasant stamp required. Best populations in central and southwest Wisconsin.

Planning Tools

Hunt Cost Calculator — budget your full hunt cost
Season Tag Planner — never miss an opening day
Preference Point Tracker — when should you burn your points?

Wisconsin Hunting Guides

destinations

Wisconsin Deer Hunting Guide — Seasons, Licenses & Public Land

Wisconsin Hunting FAQ

Do I need a hunting license in Wisconsin?

Yes. All hunters in Wisconsin must hold a valid hunting license from the Wisconsin DNR. Non-residents typically pay higher fees. A hunter safety course is required for first-time license buyers.

What is the hunting license cost in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin license costs vary by species. Whitetail Deer: resident $24, non-resident $160. Turkey: resident $15, non-resident $60.

When is deer season in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin deer seasons: Archery: Sep 16 - Jan 7, Rifle: Nov 18 - Nov 26, Muzzleloader: Nov 27 - Dec 6.

Does Wisconsin require a hunter safety course?

Yes, Wisconsin requires hunter education certification for all first-time hunters. The course covers firearm safety, hunting laws, wildlife conservation, and ethical hunting practices.

Who manages hunting regulations in Wisconsin?

The Wisconsin DNR manages all hunting licenses, regulations, and wildlife management in Wisconsin. Their website (https://dnr.wisconsin.gov) has current season dates, license purchasing, and regulation booklets.