Wisconsin hunters are gearing up for an exciting and diverse range of hunting seasons in 2023. From deer to bears, migratory birds to turkeys, the state offers a multitude of opportunities for hunters to pursue their passion. Here’s some info from WIS-DNR about the seasons.

Deer Hunting Seasons

The deer hunting seasons kick off with the Archery and Crossbow season, which runs from Sept. 16, 2023, to Jan. 7, 2024. During this time, hunters can take advantage of the mild weather and test their skills in the field. It’s important to note that no bucks may be harvested during the antlerless-only hunts identified in the schedule.

For those in Metro Sub-units and counties with extended archery seasons, the hunting season extends further until Jan. 31, 2024. This extension provides additional opportunities for hunters to pursue their passion and potentially bag a prized deer.

The gun hunt for hunters with disabilities is scheduled from Oct. 7-15 providing an inclusive and accessible experience for those who may face physical challenges.

Youth hunters also have their chance to shine during the Youth Deer Hunt, which takes place on Oct. 7-8. This period allows young hunters to learn and practice their skills under supervised conditions.

The main Gun Deer Hunt is scheduled from Nov. 18-26. This is a popular period for many hunters, as they gather to participate in this time-honored tradition.

Following the gun hunt, the Muzzleloader season runs from Nov. 27 to Dec. 6. This season offers a unique challenge for those who prefer the use of muzzleloaders.

Hunters can gear up once again for the Dec. 4-Day Antlerless-Only Hunt, which takes place from December 7-10. This specialized hunt focuses on managing the deer population by targeting antlerless deer.

For those in select Farmland (Zone 2) counties, the Antlerless-Only Holiday Hunt is an option. Taking place from Dec. 24, 2023, to Jan. 1, 2024, this hunt offers a chance to continue the hunting season into the new year.

Bear Hunting Season

Bear hunting in Wisconsin is divided into different zones. In Zones A, B, and D, where dogs are permitted, the bear hunting season with the aid of bait or other legal methods (excluding dogs) spans from Oct. 4-10. The season where dogs are allowed extends from Sept. 13 to Oct. 3. Lastly, the season exclusively for hunting with dogs in these zones is from September 6-12.

In Zones C, E, and F, where dogs are not permitted, bear hunting with bait or other legal methods (excluding dogs) occurs from Sept. 6 to Oct. 10.

Migratory Bird Hunting Season

Wisconsin also offers various opportunities for migratory bird hunting. From Early Teal to Mourning Dove, hunters can engage in a range of bird hunting experiences. The hunting seasons for these birds are staggered, starting from Sept. 1 and extending into late November for some species.

Wild Turkey Hunting Season

Turkey hunting enthusiasts have their chance this fall. For the Fall 2023 season, hunters can participate from Sept. 16 to Nov. 17 in Statewide Zones 1-5. The season continues in Zones 1-5 from Nov. 18, 2023, to Jan. 7, 2024.

Other Game Birds Season

Wisconsin’s diverse hunting opportunities also extend to other game birds. Pheasant hunting is open statewide from Oct. 14, 2023, to Jan. 7, 2024. Ruffed grouse hunting is open in Zone A from Sept. 16, 2023, to Jan. 7, 2024, and in Zone B from Oct. 14 to Dec. 8. Crow hunting spans from Sept. 16 to Nov. 16 and then from Jan. 19 to March 20, 2024, statewide.

Hungarian partridge hunting is open statewide (except in Clark, Marathon, and Taylor counties) from Oct. 14, 2023, to Jan. 7, 2024. Bobwhite quail hunting takes place statewide from Oct. 14 to Dec. 6.

With such a wide array of hunting seasons and opportunities, Wisconsin remains a haven for hunters of all interests and skill levels.