Hunting Regulations

Fall 2026-Spring 2027 Wisconsin Hunting Regulations

Cover of the Fall 2026-Spring 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 DNR service centers. Both versions contain the same information.

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

Note: The Subsection may update with different options once new Section is chosen, so it’s recommended to choose a Section first.

Elk Season Dates and Bag Limits

Season Dates

Oct. 17-Dec. 13

Bag Limits

The bag limit is one elk per elk carcass tag.

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.

Management Zones

There are two elk management zones. Over 70% of each elk zone is public land open for elk hunting.

Northern Elk Management Zone

Map of the northern elk management zone

Central Elk Management Zone

Map of Central Elk Management Zone

Registration

Registration

  • In-person registration may be required. 
  • All harvested elk must be presented in-person at a designated location. Location and hours of operation will be shared prior to the start of the elk hunting season.
  • Each elk must be registered by 5 p.m. the day after recovery of the carcass and prior to its removal from the county of harvest or adjoining county. 
  • At the time of registration, hunters shall provide the DNR with information about the location of the kill. If requested, you must allow the DNR to collect tissue or other samples.

Elk Hunting Regulations

*Be aware that the general hunting regulations also apply, in addition to the species-specific regulations below. Read the info in the General and Licensing Requirements section in the Wisconsin Hunting Regulations.

General Restrictions

  • The bag limit is one elk per elk carcass tag.
  • Antlered (or bull) elk include any elk with an antler of at least 6 inches in length. Antlerless elk include any elk with no antlers or less than 6 inches of antlers on both sides.
  • Blaze orange or fluorescent pink clothing isn't required, except during a statewide firearm season.
  • It is illegal to feed elk or to hunt elk over bait.

Tagging and Transport

  • You must validate the carcass tag immediately upon killing and before field dressing or moving the elk.
  • You must attach the validated carcass tag to the animal before you leave it. You do not need to attach the tag while you remain with the carcass, such as when dragging it out of the field.
  • It is illegal to transport another person’s unregistered elk unless accompanied by the person issued the carcass tag.
  • The person who tags the elk must keep the carcass tag with the butchered meat until it is consumed.