Learn to Hunt

Wisconsin has tremendous natural diversity with over 6 million acres of public lands across the state, with most of them open to hunting. Wisconsin hunters have an opportunity to hunt many species, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, rabbits, squirrel, mourning doves and many other species. Mentored hunting and access to readily available hunter education courses provide an easy introduction to Wisconsin’s great hunting heritage.
Get started hunting and experience the benefits, such as connecting with nature, supporting wildlife conservation and securing your own food. 

Read on to find all the resources and information you need to start hunting today!

HUNTING RESOURCE LIBRARY

In the hunting resource library, you will find articles, reports and videos with helpful information for hunters at all experience levels.

Hunting Articles

Check out these helpful articles to begin your hunting adventure.

• Learn to Butcher Deer
• Canning Meat, Wild Game, Poultry, & Fish Safely

Hunting Reports

Read these reports to find out the latest information on harvest statistics and population levels.

• Wisconsin Wildlife Reports
• Wisconsin Deer Harvest Summary
• Wisconsin Deer Metrics System

Hunting Videos

Check out the Hunters Connect YouTube channel for all the videos you need to get started hunting today. Below are videos that can help you get started.

• How to Clean a Shotgun
• Rifle Selection for Big Game
• Choosing the Right Shotgun, Ammo, and Chokes for Upland Bird Hunting
• How to Pluck a Duck
• Wild Wisconsin: How to Field Dress a Deer
• Wild Wisconsin: How to Process a Deer (Part 1)
• Wild Wisconsin: How to Process a Deer (Part 2)

FIND A HUNTER EDUCATION COURSE

Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1973, needs to complete a hunter education course and have a hunter education safety certificate on file to purchase any hunting license in Wisconsin, unless hunting under the Mentored Hunting Law or have proof of completing basic training in the U.S. Armed Forces, Reserves or National Guard.

Find a Hunter Education course – a Hunter Education course that works for you, and don’t delay, classes can fill up quickly

LEARN TO HUNT EVENTS

Are you looking for a program, clinic or workshop that teaches you about hunting techniques, equipment or how to cook your harvest? The DNR Events calendar has you covered. The calendar is updated regularly with new events and opportunities to learn how to hunt from experienced hunters. Sign up to receive notifications of future events by email.

HUNTING SEASON DATES

In Wisconsin, you can hunt a variety of sustainably managed game species. Exactly when you can hunt varies by species and location. Check the latest season dates to make sure you're hunting for your species of interest at the right time.

WHERE TO HUNT IN WISCONSIN

From marshes to forests, Wisconsin offers countless opportunities for unforgettable hunting experiences. The DNR has a variety of resources to help you find your favorite hunting spot.