Get Ready For Hunting And Trapping Seasons Opening In October

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds 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.

Oct. 5

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

Oct. 12

• Duck (Open Water Zone)
• Elk

Oct. 19

• Bobcat (Period 1, hunting and trapping)
• Bobwhite quail (opens at 9 a.m.)
• Cottontail rabbit (Southern Zone)
• Coyote (trapping only)
• Fisher (trapping only)
• Fox (hunting and trapping)
• Hungarian partridge (opens at 9 a.m., closed in Clark, Marathon and Taylor counties)
• Mink (Northern Zone, trapping only)
• Muskrat (Northern Zone, trapping only)
• Pheasant (opens at 9 a.m.)
• Raccoon (Resident, hunting and trapping)
• Ruffed grouse (Zone B)

Oct. 26

• Mink (Central Zone, trapping only)
• Muskrat (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.

With so many seasons happening this time of year, it’s important for everyone to do their part to keep Wisconsin a safe place to hunt and trap. Hunters should remember to follow the basic rules of firearm safety:

• T - Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
• A - Always point the muzzle in a safe direction.
• B - Be certain of your target, what’s before it and what’s beyond it.
• K - Keep your finger outside the trigger guard until you are ready to shoot.

Further, when hunting or trapping alone, always let someone know your plan, and if your plans change, keep them updated.

Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1973, must have a hunter education certification to purchase a hunting license unless hunting under the Mentored Hunting Law. Learn more about safe hunting in Wisconsin and register to take a hunter education course on the DNR website.

All first-time trappers must complete an approved trapper education course unless trapping under the youth supervised option, mentored trapping program or other exemptions. Experienced trappers teach this comprehensive course that covers basic trapping skills, including legal methods, regulations, safety and ethics.

The DNR wishes all hunters and trappers a safe and successful hunting and trapping season.