Archery And Crossbow Hunting Seasons Open Sept. 13

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds hunters that the archery and crossbow deer hunting seasons open Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025. The two seasons run through Jan. 4, 2026, except in the counties and metro subunits that have extended seasons open until Jan. 31, 2026. 

The early archery and crossbow seasons are great opportunities for hunters to harvest antlerless deer before they change their patterns and experience additional hunting pressure during the gun deer season. Bonus antlerless harvest authorizations remain available in many counties. 

Hunt Safely 

Just like when hunting with a firearm, archery and crossbow hunters should always remember these safety tips: 

• Always practice TAB-K.
• Always wear a safety harness in a tree stand.
• Use three points of contact when going into or out of the stand.
• Use a haul line to bring the unloaded bow or crossbow into the stand.
• Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
• Operate any ATV or UTV soberly and responsibly.

Register A Harvest 

As a reminder, all harvested deer must be registered by 5 p.m. the day after recovery using GameReg online, by phone or at a participating registration station. 

Hunter Resources 

The DNR also reminds hunters of the mobile-friendly resources available on the DNR’s Hunting webpage. In addition to hunting regulations, season dates, hunting hours and other valuable resources, the public can also find a list of the public lands open to hunting using the DNR’s Public Access Lands webpage.