Wisconsin DNR: Hunting & Trapping Seasons Opening in October

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding hunters to prepare for the opening of several hunting and trapping seasons in October.  There are four dates throughout October when seasons open, so hunters are encouraged to double-check season dates and confirm that they have acquired all necessary licenses and stamps before heading into the field.

October 5th

Gun deer hunt for hunters with disabilities (select properties only)

Youth deer hunt

October 12th

Duck (Open Water Zone)

Elk

October 19th

Bobcat (Period 1, hunting and trapping)

Bobwhite quail (opens at 9am)

Cottontail rabbit (Southern Zone)

Coyote (trapping only)

Fisher (trapping only)

Fox (hunting and trapping)

Hungarian partridge (opens at 9am, closed in Clark, Marathon and Taylor counties)

Mink (Northern Zone, trapping only)

Muskrat (Northern Zone, trapping only)

Pheasant (opens at 9am)

Raccoon (Resident, hunting and trapping)

Ruffed grouse (Zone B)

October 26th

Mink (Central Zone, trapping only)

The DNR also reminds hunters of mobile-friendly online resources, including regulations, season dates, hunting hours, pheasant stocking information and more, available on the DNR’s Hunting or Trapping webpages. Hunters and trappers can find information on species population levels and hunting opportunities in the DNR’s fall hunting forecasts.

A list of public lands open to hunting is available using the Public Access Lands webpage.

This web resource lets hunters plan their next adventure from the comfort of their home.

Remember: When hunting or trapping alone, always let someone know your plan, and if your plans change, keep them updated.