Wisconsin Hunters Gear Up for Deer Season: Key Dates, License Info, and Regulations
MANITOWOC, WI — As summer winds down, hunters across Wisconsin are preparing for the upcoming deer hunting season, which kicks off this month. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has released a full online guide with details on licenses, hunting education requirements, bonus harvest authorizations, and season dates to ensure hunters are ready before heading into the woods.
How to Get a Deer Hunting License
Hunters can purchase their deer hunting licenses online through the Wisconsin DNR. For most hunters born in 1973 or later, completion of a hunter education course is required before obtaining a license.
There are a few exceptions:
- Hunters under the mentorship program can obtain a mentored-only license without the course, provided they hunt within arm’s reach of a licensed mentor and follow additional rules.
- Those who have completed basic training in the U.S. Armed Forces, Reserves, or National Guard are exempt from the education certificate requirement.
Programs for Hunters with Disabilities
The DNR also offers a gun deer hunt for hunters with disabilities, with sponsorship registration due by September 15. Applications and program rules are available through the Wisconsin DNR .
Wisconsin 2025 Deer Hunting Season Dates
The state has set the following schedule for fall and winter deer hunts:
- Archery and Crossbow: Sept. 13 – Jan. 31, 2026
- Gun Deer Hunt for Hunters with Disabilities: Oct. 4–12
- Youth Deer Hunt: Oct. 11–12
- Traditional Gun Season: Nov. 22–30
- Muzzleloader: Dec. 1–10
- Statewide Antlerless-Only Hunt: Dec. 11–14
- Holiday Antlerless-Only Hunt: Dec. 24 – Jan. 1, 2026
Bonus Harvest Authorizations
Hunters also have access to bonus harvest authorizations for all zones in the state, which can be checked and purchased through the DNR’s bonus availability page.
Do you plan to head out for deer season this year? Which part of Wisconsin’s fall hunt do you look forward to the most — archery, youth hunts, or the traditional gun season? Share your experience and favorite traditions from Wisconsin’s hunting culture.