If you plan to hunt deer in Wisconsin for the first time this season, be fully prepared with hunting supplies and certifications. State laws dictate which documents you need and when you can hunt, so do your research. This guide breaks down the main details that prospective hunters should know before heading out on their first hunting trip of the year.

Getting Ready for Deer Hunting in Wisconsin

1. Know the Season

Deer hunting season in Wisconsin begins in mid-September 2019 and runs until the end of January 2020, but specific dates depend on the weapon you use. If you are interested in the archery and crossbow season, you can begin on September 14 and hunt until January 5. The archery and crossbow season for metro sub-units extends until January 31.

Gun hunting has a much shorter season, running November 23 through December 1. Specific season dates are subject to change. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has a complete list of hunting season dates, so check their website for up-to-date information.

2. Get Licensed

As with most states, you need to obtain a license to hunt in Wisconsin. There are several main hunting license types that deer hunters can choose from. A gun deer hunting license authorizes you to hunt during both buck deer and farmland antlerless deer harvest. You can also obtain a crossbow or archery license, which includes authorization for the same harvests.

If you were born after January 1, 1973, you must also carry proof of hunter education. This shows that you know how to use hunting supplies and weapons safely.

3. Prepare Your Documents

Once you obtain the proper licenses and authorizations, you must carry proof of deer harvest among your hunting supplies. Even if you have multiple licenses, ensure that you have the appropriate document during your hunt. For example, if you are hunting bucks with a gun, carry your buck deer harvest authorization.

Have a paper copy of licenses and authorizations on your person and download a PDF copy on your smartphone. Also, carry your driver’s license as identification.

4. Register Deer

Once you recover a deer, the state requires you to register it by 5 p.m. on the day after recovery. You can register the deer online or by calling (844) 426-3734. To register the deer, give your deer harvest authorization number. The registration system gives you a confirmation number, which you should save as proof.

Pritzl’s Trading Post in Nekoosa, WI, has been a one-stop shop for deer hunters since 1976. Stop by to pick up DNR hunting, fishing, or trapping licenses and supplies. They also have a quality selection of groceries, a deli counter, ATV equipment, and other outdoor gear. Learn more about their selection online, or call (715) 325-2281 today.