The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding hunters that the archery and crossbow deer hunting seasons open this Saturday, Sept. 12, and will run through Sunday, Jan. 3, 2027. In select Metro subunits and Farmland Zone counties, the season will extend through Jan. 31, 2027.
Safety First in the Woods
As hunters head into the woods, the DNR stresses that safety must be the number‑one priority. Every hunter should wear a harness, use a haul line, and maintain three points of contact when climbing into or out of a tree stand. These simple precautions help prevent accidents and keep families and friends safe during the season.
Updated Deer Management Units
In 2025 the DNR updated several Deer Management Units (DMUs). Hunters are urged to consult the latest Season Structure and Management Zone maps to verify whether their unit has changed. Knowing the correct management zone, DMU number, and county is essential when purchasing a deer license, registering a harvested deer, and completing any bonus antlerless harvest authorizations.
Bonus Antlerless Harvest Authorizations
Bonus antlerless harvest authorizations remain available in many units. These authorizations can be filled using any weapon type during the appropriate season, provided the hunter is in the designated zone, unit, and land type (public or private). This flexibility helps manage deer populations while giving hunters additional opportunities.
2026 Deer Forecast and CWD Updates
The DNR’s 2026 Deer Forecast includes updates on the chronic wasting disease (CWD) program, volunteer opportunities, and district‑specific outlooks. Hunters can find detailed information on the DNR’s Deer Hunting webpage, which also offers guidance on purchasing licenses and locating public hunting lands.
Funding Through Licenses Supports Wisconsin Wildlife
Approximately 95% of the funding for the DNR’s Bureau of Wildlife Management comes from hunting, trapping, and fishing license fees, as well as a federal excise tax on weapons and ammunition. These revenues directly support wildlife population surveys, habitat restoration, disease monitoring, the operation of hunting and trapping seasons, and the maintenance of 650,000 acres of public land used for outdoor recreation. The DNR thanks every license holder for their continued support of Wisconsin’s wildlife resources.
What This Means for Local Families
For families who cherish time outdoors, the opening of the archery and crossbow seasons offers a chance to teach responsible hunting practices to the next generation. By emphasizing safety, respecting management zones, and participating in conservation programs, hunters help preserve Wisconsin’s natural heritage for children and grandchildren.
For more details on season dates, safety guidelines, and licensing information, visit the Wisconsin DNR Deer Hunting page.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
