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.

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.