Wisconsin’s 2024 Gun Deer Season Opener: An Opportunity Wrapped in Caution

Blend of Traditional Sport and Ecological Responsibility

As the people of Wisconsin look forward to the annual tradition that is the Gun Deer season, it’s crucial to remember the significant role hunters play not just in game sport but in deer herd management. Starting on Saturday, November 23, 2024, and closing on December 1, the nine-day duration, enveloped within the latest timing allowed by state law, beckons hunters into Wisconsin’s wilderness.

Expectations and Weather Influence

Contrary to previous seasons, peak breeding activity seems to have concluded by the start of this season. Statistically, this could translate to fewer deer on the move. However, optimism prevails as cold temperatures and snow cover prevalent this time of the year could yield excellent deer hunting conditions. The mild winter of the previous year also promises better fawn production and antler development.

Licensing: A Snapshot

As of midnight on October 29, the year-to-date sales of gun, bow, crossbow, sports, and patron licenses reached 444,743, with 123,861 being dedicated solely to gun privileges.

Electronic Registration of Harvest

For the better management of Wisconsin’s deer herd, all harvested deer must be registered electronically by 5 p.m. the following day of recovery. This data assists DNR wildlife managers and County Deer Advisory Councils, stressing the importance of unique harvest authorization numbers associated with each permit.

Registration Options

Hunters, you have three registration options: online with GameReg, by phone at 1-844-426-3734, or electronically at a participating in-person registration station.

Safety in Hunting

Keeping our state a safe place to hunt is a collective responsibility. Adherence to the four basic rules of firearm safety, denoted by the acronym TAB-K, is paramount. This includes treating every firearm as if it’s loaded, pointing the muzzle safely, entirely identifying your target and its surroundings, and keeping fingers outside the trigger guard until ready to shoot.

Proper Gear Selection

It is mandatory for at least 50% of outer clothing above the waist, including head coverings if worn, to be blaze orange or fluorescent pink. Further, all hunting equipment should be inspected for wear and tear, any faded or stained articles could potentially compromise safety and should be replaced promptly.

Novice Hunters and Mentored Hunting Law

Then there are first-time hunters, or those born post-1973, they must possess a hunter education certification to purchase a hunting license, except for those hunting under the Mentored Hunting Law. Safe hunting measures and registration for the hunter education course can be explored at the DNR’s Outdoor Skills webpage.

Online Resources for Hunters

The DNR’s Online Deer Camp is an invaluable resource for hunters that provides comprehensive information about licensing, regulations, shooting hours, public land maps, and much more.

Conclusion

The forthcoming Gun Deer season in Wisconsin may be impacted by several factors such as weather, deer movement, and breeding patterns. However, responsible hunting and adherence to the law will ensure sustainability of deer populations, while also allowing hunters to experience the sport at its best.

Originally Post From https://wtaq.com/2024/11/03/gun-deer-season-begins-nov-23/

Gun Deer Season Kicks Off on November 23