Get Ready for Wisconsin’s Gun Deer Season

Have you taken a Learn to Hunt program? Now, it’s time to head out and hunt during the regular season! Wisconsin’s gun deer seasons offer a great opportunity to gain field experience.

What Do You Need to Participate?

  • Purchase your licenses. Check requirements for both resident and nonresident hunters.
  • Review season dates, hunting hours, deer registration, CWD information, and hunting locations on the DNR’s Deer Hunting webpage.
  • If you have questions, contact the DNR’s customer service at DNRPress@wisconsin.gov. They can connect you with experts for accurate answers.

Tips for a Successful Gun Season

  • Plan ahead. Reach out to friends or family who hunt and ask if you can join.
  • Scout the area in advance. A pre-season dry run can help you familiarize yourself with the terrain.
  • Practice with your firearm. Spend time at the shooting range to improve accuracy and confidence.
  • Prepare your gear. Sharpen knives, check flashlight batteries, and review safety equipment.
  • Think about what you’ll do with the deer once harvested.
  • Deer are most active during the first and last hours of daylight. However, they may move throughout the day. If you need to relocate or adjust your plan, don’t worry—there’s still plenty of chance to see deer, especially on opening weekend.
  • Be flexible and stay positive. Remember, the nine-day gun season involves many hunters, so be considerate and safe.
  • Report violations to the DNR Tip Line at 1-800-847-9367.

After the Nine-Day Gun Deer Season

  • The statewide antlerless hunt runs from Dec. 12-15. Many counties also offer antlerless-only holiday hunts. Check the 2024 Hunting Regulations for participating counties.
  • Explore the DNR Events page for upcoming Learn to Hunt programs to continue your education over the winter.

The Wisconsin DNR reminds hunters to prioritize safety during the gun deer season from Nov. 23 through Dec. 1.

Firearm Safety Rules

To reduce hunting accidents, follow these four basic safety rules:

  • T – Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
  • A – Always point the muzzle in a safe direction.
  • B – Be sure of your target, what’s beyond it, and what’s in front of it.
  • K – Keep your finger outside the trigger guard until ready to shoot.

Hunters must also adhere to regulations and only shoot during legal hours.

Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1973, must complete hunter education before purchasing a license, unless hunting under the Mentored Hunting Law. For more information, visit the DNR’s website.

Blaze Orange and Fluorescent Pink Required

Hunters must wear at least 50% blaze orange or fluorescent pink above the waist during firearm seasons. Hats or hoods must also meet this requirement.

The DNR encourages non-hunters and pets to wear blaze orange or fluorescent pink if recreating on public lands during hunting seasons.