Pictured: The first trapping season of the fall opened Saturday. Additional seasons for other species and zones will continue to open throughout the fall. Photo credit: Wisconsin DNR.
Prepare for the opening of many furbearer trapping seasons across the state. Wisconsin is home to many furbearer species, and the state’s highly regulated trapping seasons play an important role in the DNR’s efforts to sustainably manage those populations.
Trappers should double-check season dates, trapping regulations, and ensure they have all required licenses before heading out.
During these periods, other outdoor recreators should be aware that traps may be present on public lands. Check with the state properties you visit for any special trapping limitations/requirements that may be in place. State parks, for example, have defined areas where traps are allowed and where they can be placed. Additionally, recreators can decrease their chance of encountering a trap on any property by staying on designated trails and keeping pets leashed.
Modern trapping practices are based on thorough evaluations of commercially available traps and common trapping methods, commonly known as Best Management Practices. These evaluations include comprehensive animal welfare, selectivity, practicality, and safety metrics.
All first-time trappers must complete an approved trapper education course unless trapping under the youth supervised option, mentored trapping program, or other exemptions. These courses, taught by experienced trappers, cover basic trapping skills, regulations, safety, and trapper ethics.
Learn more: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Trap
