Hunting Regulations

Wisconsin Hunting Regulations, Fall 2026-Spring 2027

Cover of the 2026-2027 Wisconsin Hunting Regulations

The Fall 2026-Spring 2027 Wisconsin Hunting Regulations are now available for hunters to look through. In addition to this web version of the regulations, a print copy is available at most license agent locations. Both versions contain the same information.

To use the online regulations, you must first choose a Section or click the "View All Regulations" button to see everything. You may then choose a Subsection to narrow your search and then press the View Regulation button to display the regulatory information you selected. If you'd like to see all info related to a section, select the first option ("-") to see everything under that section. You may also press Reset for a brand new search.


Please be aware that hunters are responsible for reading and following all the hunting regulations. Regulations that apply to all species are found within the "General Hunting" and "Licensing Requirements" sections, meanwhile species-specific regulations are found in the respective species sections.

Licensing Requirements

Small Game Licenses/Stamps/Permits

What You Need to Hunt Small Game:

A small game hunting license is required. See the Landowner Exceptions webpage for details and exceptions for qualified individuals and landowners.

Furbearers Licensing Requirements

What You Need To Hunt Furbearers:
  • Resident small game license or non-resident furbearer license.
  • Bobcat harvest permit/carcass tag if hunting bobcat.

See the Landowner Exemptions webpage for details and exemptions for qualified individuals and landowners.

Licensing Requirements

Application and License Requirements

What You Need To Hunt Elk:

  • Elk license
  • Elk carcass tag
  • Completion of Wisconsin Elk Hunter Education Course

All elk hunters must participate in a Wisconsin Elk Hunter Education Course prior to being issued an elk hunting license. The DNR will contact successful applicants with details.

A person may be issued or transferred only one elk license in their lifetime.

Only license drawing winners may purchase an elk license.