Gun deer hunting season opens this weekend in Wisconsin

WISCONSIN (Civic Media) – The 9-day 2025 gun deer hunting season opens this weekend in Wisconsin, running Nov. 22 through Nov. 30.

The majority of deer harvested in the state happens during the gun deer hunting season, according to the DNR.

Last year, over 190,000 deer were taken during the 9-day hunt, according to the DNR.

DNR Deer Specialist Jeff Pritzl said that the state’s deer population is estimated to be over 2 million, but the deer aren’t concentrated in any one area.

Pritzl said that the biggest change this year are the changes to the deer management units, particularly in the northern and central parts of the state. All hunters will need to know their deer management unit number when they apply for permits.

Electronic registration is required for any deer taken during the hunt by 5 p.m. the day after it is recovered. The three options are with GameReg, by calling 844-426-3724, or in-person at a participating registration station.

DNR Recreation Warden Joe Mulrooney emphasized firearm safety for hunters going out into the woods this season, reminding all hunters of the basic rules known as TAB-K:

• T – Treat every firearm as if it is loaded. 

• A – Always point the muzzle in a safe direction. 

• B – Be certain of your target, what’s before and beyond it.

• K – Keep your finger outside the trigger guard until you are ready to shoot.  

All clothing, including hats, must be at least 50% blaze orange or fluorescent pink. Anyone born after Jan. 1, 1973 must also have proof of taking hunter’s safety.

The DNR is also offering a donation program to help stock up local food pantries across Wisconsin through its Deer Donation Program.

To learn more about this year’s gun deer hunting season, you can visit the Wisconsin DNR website.