At the time of this release, the DNR reports the following firearm-involved hunting incidents on the opening day of the 2025 nine-day gun deer season. The season runs from Nov. 22-30.
- Grant County, North Lancaster Township: On Nov. 22, 2025, in the afternoon hours, a 57-year-old male was a victim of a gunshot to his buttock while walking to a field to go deer hunting. The victim was transported to the hospital and treated for injury. Investigation pending.
- Fond du Lac County, Oakfield Township: On Nov. 22, 2025, in the evening hours, a 24-year-old male deer hunter was a victim of a self-inflicted gunshot to the chest. The victim was found deceased several hours after the close of hunting hours by family on private property. Preliminary investigation reflects the victim was in a tree, gun deer hunting from a saddle stand, when the unintentional discharge of their firearm occurred. Investigation pending.
Comparatively, during the 2024 nine-day gun deer season, the DNR reported one firearm-involved hunting incident resulting in injury.
The DNR reminds hunters to always follow the four rules of firearm safety, TAB-K, as a cornerstone for safe and successful hunting:
- T – Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
- A – Always point the muzzle in a safe direction.
- B – Be certain of your target, what’s before it and what’s beyond it.
- K – Keep your finger outside your trigger guard until you are safe to shoot.
Learn more about safe hunting in Wisconsin and register to take a hunter education course on the DNR’s Hunting Safety webpage.
