Wisconsin Deer Season 2025-2026: WI Deer Hunting Guide [Schedule, Rules, Licenses]

Welcome to your one-stop resource for everything you need to know about pursuing white-tailed deer in the Badger State for the 2025-2026 cycle! This guide breaks down all the critical information—from the latest dates for archery, firearms, and muzzleloader periods to regulatory changes and license tips. We’ve compiled the most current data from official sources to help you plan your outdoor excursions, whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out. Let’s dive into the details so you can focus on enjoying Wisconsin’s world-class wildlife management areas and public lands.

Key Deer Species at a Glance

Wisconsin’s primary big game animal is the white-tailed deer. The state does not have native populations of mule deer, black-tailed deer, elk, or exotic species like axis, fallow, or sika deer. Management focuses solely on the whitetail. Below is a quick overview of the primary seasons for this species .

Detailed Breakdown of All Deer Seasons 🗓️

Wisconsin offers a diverse range of opportunities to pursue whitetails throughout the fall and winter. The seasons are carefully structured to manage population health and provide recreational variety.

🏹 Archery and Crossbow Season

• Dates: September 13, 2025, to January 4, 2026 .
• Extended Dates (Metro/Select Counties): Runs until January 31, 2026, in metro subunits and specific Farmland counties .
• Details: This lengthy period allows enthusiasts to enjoy the fall colors and earlier weather. It’s a great way to extend your time in the field.

🔫 Gun Deer Season (Firearms)

• Dates: November 22, 2025, to November 30, 2025 .
• Details: This is the most anticipated time for many, traditionally a nine-day period that is a major cultural event in the state. The season structure remains largely consistent with previous years.

⚫ Muzzleloader Season

• Dates: December 1, 2025, to December 10, 2025 .
• Details: A dedicated period for traditional muzzleloading rifles, offering a unique challenge after the modern firearms rush.

🎯 Antlerless-Only Hunts

• Statewide 4-Day Hunt: December 11, 2025, to December 14, 2025 .
• Holiday Hunt (Select Farmland Counties): December 24, 2025, to January 1, 2026 .
• Details: These specific periods are crucial for population control in designated areas and are only for harvesting antlerless animals.

👧 Youth Deer Hunt

• Dates: October 11, 2025, to October 12, 2025 .
• Details: A fantastic initiative to introduce younger generations to the sport. Participants must be under 16 and accompanied by an adult .

♿ Gun Deer Hunt for Hunters with Disabilities

• Dates: October 4, 2025, to October 12, 2025 .
• Details: This is not a statewide season and is hosted on specific, sponsored properties. More information is available on the Wisconsin DNR’s dedicated webpage .

Other Deer-Related Game Information 🦌

As noted, Wisconsin’s management focuses on white-tailed deer. There are no established seasons for elk, moose, caribou, or non-native deer species within the state. All hunting efforts are dedicated to the sustainable management of the whitetail population.

Wisconsin Late Deer Seasons Snapshot

For a quick look at the seasons that extend into the winter months.

Important Regulations to Know ✅

Staying on the right side of the law is crucial for conservation and safety. Here are some key rules for the 2025-2026 season :

• Harvest Registration: All harvested deer must be registered electronically by 5 p.m. the day after recovery .
• CWD Testing: While not mandatory, testing for Chronic Wasting Disease is strongly recommended and is free .
• Baiting and Feeding: Regulations on baiting and feeding deer vary by county. Hunters must check the official DNR Baiting and Feeding Regulations webpage to determine the rules for their specific county .
• Carcass Transport: Special restrictions apply to the movement of deer carcasses to help prevent the spread of CWD. Refer to the DNR’s Carcass Movement webpage for details .
• Hunter Orange: During the gun deer season, at least 50% of a hunter’s clothing above the waist must be blaze orange or pink, and any head covering must be at least 50% blaze orange or pink .
• Weapon Use: A harvest authorization is weapon-specific. For example, an archery buck authorization cannot be filled with a firearm during the gun season .

License and Tag Information 🎟️

• Requirements: All participants must possess a valid Wisconsin hunting license. Additional stamps or permits are required for certain activities .
• Antlerless Harvest Authorizations: Bonus antlerless harvest authorizations go on sale starting August 18, 2025. They are priced at $12 for residents, $20 for non-residents, and $5 for youth under 12. These are available on a first-come, first-served basis .
• Where to Buy: Licenses and authorizations can be purchased online through the Go Wild app or at authorized license sale locations throughout the state .
• Fees: While exact fee amounts for standard licenses are not detailed in the provided sources, residents and non-residents should expect different pricing tiers. Non-resident gun deer licenses were noted to cost $79 for first-time buyers and $160 for returning hunters in a previous cycle . Always check the official Go Wild website for the most current fee structure.

License Requirements 📋

• Mentored Hunting Program: Allows individuals to hunt without first completing hunter education, provided they are accompanied by a licensed mentor and remain within arm’s reach .
• Hunter Education: Typically required for those hunting independently.
• Residency Status: Different fees apply for residents and non-residents.
• Age Requirements: Youth licenses are available for those under a certain age, often with reduced fees .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Do I need a special permit to hunt antlerless deer?
A: Yes, you need an antlerless harvest authorization. Some are included with your license in Farmland zones, but bonus authorizations must be purchased separately and are subject to availability .

Q: Can I use a crossbow during the archery season?
A: Yes, crossbows are allowed for all hunters during the archery season in Wisconsin .

Q: Are there any areas with special regulations?
A: Yes, always check the current regulations for specific Deer Management Units (DMUs). For example, there are PFAS consumption advisories for deer harvested in the Town of Stella (Oneida County) and near Marinette (Marinette County) .

Q: Where can I find public land to hunt?
A: Wisconsin has over 7 million acres of public land. Use the DNR’s Public Access Lands mapping tool to find properties open to the public for hunting .

Q: What is the application deadline for bear permits?
A: While not directly related to deer, the application deadline for bear permits is always December 10 of the year preceding the season .

Conclusion

Wisconsin’s 2025-2026 whitetail schedule offers a generous mix of opportunities across multiple weapon types, perfect for beginners and experts alike. With extended archery in metro areas, dedicated antlerless hunts, and a focus on accessible youth opportunities, the state provides a robust framework for pursuing America’s most popular big game animal. The key to a successful and lawful experience is reviewing the official regulations before you head out.

Always confirm all dates, rules, and zone information directly with the official WDNR Hunting Regulations Summary at https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/hunt/regulations before your hunt, as changes may occur.

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James Ellis

James Ellis, the passionate creator of DeerSeason.Org, is dedicated to fostering a deep appreciation for wildlife. With over a decade of experience in exploring the world of deer, his writing reflects an extensive understanding of these magnificent creatures

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